What is hashing in APIs and why is it important?

What is hashing in APIs and why is it important?

Hashing in APIs is a process of converting data into a fixed-size string of characters, which is typically a hash code. It's important for data integrity, security, and efficient data retrieval.

Can you explain how hashing enhances security in APIs?

Hashing enhances security by ensuring that sensitive data, like passwords, are not stored in plain text. Instead, they are stored as hashes, making it difficult for attackers to retrieve the original data.

What are some common hashing algorithms used in APIs?

Common hashing algorithms include SHA-256, MD5, and bcrypt. Each has its own use cases and security levels.

How does hashing differ from encryption?

Hashing is a one-way function that converts data into a fixed-size hash, while encryption is a two-way function that allows data to be transformed back to its original form.

Can you give an example of hashing in a real-world API?

Sure! A common example is when a user registers on a website. Their password is hashed before being stored in the database, ensuring that even if the database is compromised, the actual passwords remain secure.