SHA256 Hash Generator

Create 256-bit SHA-256 hashes of text or files.

Input type

Output

Hash each line

Text to hash

0 chars

SHA-256 · 256 bits

Result will appear here...

Compare with a known hash (optional)

SHA-256 Hash Generator

Generate the SHA-256 hash of any text or file. The 256-bit digest is computed locally in your browser and updates on every keystroke. Switch to File mode to fingerprint downloads and verify checksums without uploading anything.

About SHA-256

SHA-256 is a member of the SHA-2 family, published by NIST in FIPS 180-4. SHA-256 processes the message in 512-bit blocks and mixes it into eight 32-bit state words over 64 rounds to produce a 256-bit digest. It is the most widely used secure hash in the world. The same input always yields the same digest, and a one-character change produces a completely different value.

Features

Text or file input (text, hex bytes, Base64, or Latin-1), up to 200 MB
Hex, uppercase HEX, or Base64 output
Hash each line for bulk processing of lists
Compare with a known hash to verify integrity instantly

Security

SHA-2 is the current workhorse for cryptographic hashing: TLS certificates, software signatures, blockchain systems, and file integrity all rely on it. For password storage, use a slow algorithm such as bcrypt (see the WordPress Password Hash Generator); for keyed message authentication, use the HMAC Generator. To see the whole family side by side, try the SHA2 Hash Generator, and for the newer sponge design see SHA3-256.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a SHA-256 hash?

SHA-256 produces 256 bits, shown here as 64 hexadecimal characters. You can also switch the output to uppercase or Base64.

Is SHA-256 secure?

Yes. The SHA-2 family has no known practical collision or preimage attacks and is recommended by NIST for digital signatures, certificates, and integrity checks.

Where is SHA-256 used?

Everywhere: TLS/SSL certificates, Bitcoin and many blockchains, Linux package signing, JWT tokens, and file checksums. It is the default choice when a secure 256-bit hash is needed.

How do I verify a file's SHA-256 checksum?

Switch to File mode, drop the file in, and paste the published checksum into the compare box. A green message confirms the file matches. The file never leaves your browser.