What is a cryptographic hash?
A cryptographic hash maps variable-length data to a fixed-length digest; a small input change usually produces a very different digest.
Digest and integrity
Functions such as SHA-256 support file integrity and digital signatures. Collision resistance and resistance to recovering an input from its digest are core properties.
Uses and limitations
Hashing is not encryption. Password storage needs salts and purpose-built slow password hashing rather than plain SHA-256.
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