What are the key milestones in the history of hashing algorithms?

What are the key milestones in the history of hashing algorithms?

Hashing algorithms have evolved significantly since their inception. The first notable algorithm was MD5, introduced in 1991, which was widely used for data integrity. However, due to vulnerabilities, it was eventually replaced by SHA-1 in 1995. SHA-2 followed in 2001, offering improved security. More recently, SHA-3 was released in 2015, providing a different construction method. Each of these milestones reflects the growing need for security in digital communications.

What are the main uses of hashing algorithms today?

Today, hashing algorithms are primarily used in data integrity verification, password storage, and digital signatures. They ensure that data has not been altered and are crucial in blockchain technology and cryptocurrency transactions.

Can you explain the differences between MD5 and SHA-256?

MD5 produces a 128-bit hash value and is faster but less secure, making it vulnerable to collisions. SHA-256, part of the SHA-2 family, generates a 256-bit hash and is significantly more secure, making it suitable for cryptographic applications.

What are some common vulnerabilities in hashing algorithms?

Common vulnerabilities include collision attacks, where two different inputs produce the same hash, and pre-image attacks, where an attacker finds an input that hashes to a specific output. Algorithms like MD5 and SHA-1 are particularly susceptible to these issues.