How do different hash functions compare in terms of security and performance?

What are hash functions and why are they important?

Hash functions are algorithms that transform input data into a fixed-size string of characters, which is typically a hash code. They are crucial for data integrity, security, and efficient data retrieval.

Can you compare MD5, SHA-1, and SHA-256 in terms of security?

MD5 and SHA-1 are considered weak due to vulnerabilities that allow for collision attacks. SHA-256 is much stronger and is widely recommended for secure applications.

What about their performance? Are there significant differences?

Yes, MD5 is the fastest, followed by SHA-1, with SHA-256 being the slowest. However, the performance difference is often negligible compared to the security benefits of using SHA-256.

Which hash function should I use for password storage?

For password storage, it's best to use a slow hash function like bcrypt or Argon2, which are designed to be computationally intensive to resist brute-force attacks.