ToolNest · Published 2026-09-24 · Updated 2026-09-24
How to hash text (and why you cannot un-hash it)
A hash is a fingerprint, not a lockbox. ToolNest will not “decrypt” a hash because that is not how these functions work.
Which algorithm
Use SHA-256 or SHA-512 when you need a modern checksum of a string. MD5 and SHA-1 remain because old systems still print them — they are not appropriate for storing passwords.
Text, not files
This generator hashes the characters you paste, not an arbitrary binary file picker. For disk images, use a local checksum utility.
Questions
Is hashing the same as encryption?+
No. Encryption is designed to be reversed with a key. A cryptographic hash is not.