Free Online Hash Generator (MD5/SHA) Tool

The hash generator computes MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 digests of an input string and shows all four side by side.

Your data is processed entirely in your browser and never sent to any server.

Instant results 100% private No signup needed

How to Use This Developer Tool

  1. Paste or type text into the input area.
  2. All four digests update live in the output panel.
  3. Click the algorithm row you need to copy that specific hash.

What Is a Hash Generator (MD5/SHA)?

Cryptographic hashes are one-way functions: the same input always produces the same fixed-length output, but you cannot recover the input from the output. They're used for file integrity checks (download checksums), version stamps (Git commits use SHA-1), HMAC signature bases, and content addressing in caches and CDNs.

This generator uses the Web Crypto API for SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512, plus an in-browser MD5 implementation for compatibility with legacy systems. Use SHA-256 for any new code; MD5 and SHA-1 are kept for verifying against older artifacts. For password hashing specifically, reach for a slow KDF like bcrypt, scrypt, or Argon2 — general-purpose hashes are far too fast to be safe for passwords.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which hash algorithm should I use?
SHA-256 for general use (checksums, integrity). MD5 and SHA-1 are broken for security—avoid for passwords. Use bcrypt/Argon2 for passwords.
What's the difference between MD5 and SHA-256?
MD5 is 128-bit, fast, but cryptographically broken. SHA-256 is 256-bit, secure, slower. Use SHA-256 for security-sensitive hashing.
Can I hash files?
Yes, upload a file to get its hash. Useful for verifying downloads, deduplication, or checksums. Same input always gives same hash.

Published by the WeGotEveryTool team. We build and test every tool in-house and update pages when the underlying spec, formula, or recommendation changes.

Reviewed: May 2026. Disclaimer: this tool is provided as-is for general informational use. For decisions with material consequences (medical, legal, financial, security) verify results against a qualified professional source.

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