Hash Algorithm Guide

⚠️ Important Hash Functions Are One-Way

You cannot reverse a hash to find the original password. Hash functions are designed to be irreversible. The "Verify Hash" feature works by hashing your password again and comparing the results - not by reversing the hash.

🎓 How Password Verification Works Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: User creates password → System hashes it → Stores hash in database
Step 2: User logs in → System hashes entered password
Step 3: System compares stored hash vs. new hash
Result: If hashes match = correct password! No passwords stored in plain text.

🔓 Hash Attack Methods How Attackers Find Passwords

Rainbow Tables: Pre-computed hash databases for common passwords
Brute Force: Trying millions of password combinations
Dictionary Attacks: Testing common passwords systematically
Protection: Use bcrypt/Argon2 with salt to prevent these attacks!

SHA-256/512 Good for General Hashing

Fast and secure for file integrity checks, but requires additional salting for password storage.

MD5/SHA-1 Legacy Only

Cryptographically broken or vulnerable. Only use for compatibility with legacy systems.