AI & the web
Hash function
A calculation that turns input data into a fixed-length digest.
In everyday use
You compare file hashes to check whether two downloads match.
What to keep in mind
A hash is not an encrypted copy that you can simply decrypt.
Also searched as: Hash, Digest
Further reading
Original explanation and example by Perspectism. Further reading may cover the wider subject, rather than this exact wording. Edition updated 7 October 2026.
More in ai & the web
Page updated .