How to Secure Hash Algorithms

Securing a hash algorithm can be accomplished with a simple software program.

A hash algorithm is a unique mathematical computation or representation of a piece of digital data. Sometimes, hashes are referred to as a "digital fingerprint" because many algorithms used to compute them do not result in duplicate numbers. This means each piece of data can be uniquely tracked by its hash algorithm until it is changed (even by one single bit), causing the algorithm to change. To secure a hash algorithm, simple pieces of software are required that run the algorithm on the target data. A widely used hash function is known as the MD5, or Message Digest 5 hash.

Things You'll Need

• Hasher software tool

Instructions

1. Obtain a hasher software tool. There are lots of free tools available on the Internet that can produce many varieties of hash algorithms.

2. Install and set up your selected hasher tool on your PC. The hasher tool can provide a hash algorithm on any piece of data, from a 1-byte text file all the way up to entire hard drives.

3. Direct your hasher program to compute the algorithm of your target data file. This is simply pointing the program to the piece of data you wish to hash.

Tips & Warnings

• If a data file is changed in any way from the original, its hash algorithm will change also.

References

• KarenWare.com: Karen's Hasher
• Computer Hope: Hashing