What is hashing and how does it enhance security?

What is hashing and how does it enhance security?

Hashing is a process that transforms data into a fixed-size string of characters, which is typically a hash code. It enhances security by ensuring that even a small change in the input data results in a significantly different hash, making it difficult to reverse-engineer the original data.

Can you explain how hashing is used in password storage?

Certainly! When storing passwords, systems often hash the password before saving it. This way, even if the database is compromised, the actual passwords are not exposed, as only the hash values are stored.

What are some common hashing algorithms?

Some common hashing algorithms include MD5, SHA-1, and SHA-256. However, it's important to note that MD5 and SHA-1 are considered weak and not recommended for security-sensitive applications.

How does salting work with hashing?

Salting involves adding a unique, random string to each password before hashing it. This ensures that even if two users have the same password, their hashes will be different, making it harder for attackers to use precomputed hash tables.

What are the risks of using weak hashing algorithms?

Using weak hashing algorithms can expose your data to vulnerabilities, as attackers can easily crack the hashes using techniques like brute force or rainbow tables.