What are hash functions and how do they enhance security?

What are hash functions and how do they enhance security?

Hash functions are algorithms that transform input data into a fixed-size string of characters, which is typically a hash code. They enhance security by ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.

Can you explain how hash functions are used in password storage?

Certainly! Hash functions are used to store passwords securely by converting them into a hash value. When a user logs in, the entered password is hashed and compared to the stored hash value.

What makes a good hash function?

A good hash function should be fast, produce unique outputs for different inputs, and be resistant to collisions, meaning it's hard to find two different inputs that produce the same hash.

Are there any common hash functions used in security?

Yes, common hash functions include SHA-256, SHA-1, and MD5. However, MD5 and SHA-1 are considered less secure due to vulnerabilities.

How do hash functions contribute to data integrity?

Hash functions contribute to data integrity by allowing users to verify that data has not been altered. If the hash of the data matches the original hash, the data is intact.