A cryptographic hash is a mathematical algorithm used to process and secure data in blockchain technology. It is used to encrypt data and ensure that it has not been altered or tampered with. Cryptographic hashes are also used to securely store data on the blockchain, such as transactions and balances.
What is a cryptographic hash?
A cryptographic hash is a mathematical algorithm used to process and secure data in blockchain technology. It is used to encrypt data and ensure that it has not been altered or tampered with by taking an input string of any length and creating a fixed-length output string of letters and numbers known as a hash.
The hash generated by a cryptographic hash function is usually referred to as a “digest” or “message digest”. This digest is a unique identifier that is created based on the input data.
How does cryptographic hashing work?
Cryptographic hashing is a process that takes an input (or "message") and returns a fixed-size string of characters, which is typically a "hash" or "digest." The same input will always produce the same hash, but even a small change to the input will produce a vastly different hash.
Step-1: The input, or "message," is passed through a hashing algorithm.
Step-2: The algorithm processes the input and produces a fixed-size output, called a "hash" or "digest."
Step-3: The hash is a representation of the original input, but it is typically much shorter and it is almost impossible to recreate the original input from the hash.
Step-4: The hash is then typically stored or transmitted, while the original input is discarded.
Step-5: To verify the integrity of the input later, the same hashing algorithm can be used to create a new hash from the input, and it can be compared to the original hash. If they match, it means the input has not been tampered with.
Note that there are many different types of hashing algorithms, such as SHA-256, SHA-3, and BLAKE2, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
What is a cryptographic hash used for?
Cryptographic hashes are used for a variety of purposes in blockchain technology, including:
• Securing data – Hashing data ensures that it has not been tampered with and is secure.
• Storing data – Cryptographic hashes can be used to store data on the blockchain, such as transactions and balances.
• Verifying transactions – Cryptographic hashes are used to verify the authenticity of transactions on the blockchain.
• Generating unique identifiers – Cryptographic hashes can be used to generate unique identifiers, such as wallet addresses.
Conclusion
Cryptographic hash functions are a powerful tool in blockchain technology that are used to secure data, store data, verify transactions, and generate unique identifiers. They are an essential part of blockchain technology and are used to ensure the integrity of data stored on the blockchain.
