What is hashing and why is it important in cybersecurity?

What is hashing and why is it important in cybersecurity?

Hashing is a process that transforms data into a fixed-size string of characters, which is typically a hash code. It's crucial in cybersecurity for ensuring data integrity and securely storing passwords.

How does hashing protect passwords?

When passwords are hashed, the original password is not stored. Instead, only the hash is saved. This way, even if the database is compromised, the actual passwords remain secure.

Are there different hashing algorithms?

Yes, there are several hashing algorithms like SHA-256, MD5, and bcrypt. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses in terms of security and speed.

What makes a good hashing algorithm?

A good hashing algorithm should be fast to compute, resistant to collisions, and secure against attacks like brute force and rainbow tables.

Can you explain what a collision is in hashing?

A collision occurs when two different inputs produce the same hash output. This can undermine the integrity of the hashing process.