7.6 Hash Algorithms
In this section, we will look at another class of algorithms that play an important role in cryptography: hash algorithms. (We will revisit them in Chapter 9, Section 9.1, where you will learn how passwords can be cracked.)
A hash algorithm is a mathematical procedure that receives an input, such as a file or text, and converts it into a hash value. Regardless of how long the input is, the output always has the same length, which depends on the respective hash algorithm. Hash values are used, among other things, for storing passwords, digital signatures, and checking integrity. The properties of (cryptographic) hash algorithms are:
-
UniquenessDifferent inputs usually result in different hash values. A perfect hash function ...
Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
and much more.
Read now
Unlock full access