While SHA-256 is not technically encryption, it's a cryptographic hash algorithm that plays a crucial role in data security.
Here's a breakdown of how it works:
Input: Any data, text, or file can be fed as input to the SHA-256 algorithm.
Processing:
The algorithm divides the input into 512-bit blocks.
It employs a series of complex mathematical operations, including logical functions, shifts, and additions, to transform each block repeatedly.
These transformations are designed to create a unique fingerprint of the input, making it extremely difficult to reverse engineer or predict the original data from the hash.
Output:
The final output is a 256-bit (64-character hexadecimal string) hash value, also known as a message digest.
This hash represents a condensed, unique, and tamper-proof signature of the original input.
Key characteristics of SHA256 Algorithm:
One-way: It's practically impossible to reverse the hash to obtain the original data.
Deterministic: The same input always produces the same hash, ensuring consistency and integrity.
Small changes, big impact: Even a minor alteration in the input results in a completely different hash, making it sensitive to data integrity.
Collision resistance: Finding two different inputs that create the same hash is extremely improbable, making it secure for authentication purposes.
Common applications that uses SHA256 Encryption Method:
Password storage: Instead of storing passwords in plain text, systems often store their SHA-256 hashes, preventing password exposure in case of breaches.
File integrity verification: SHA-256 hashes can ensure that files haven't been tampered with during transfer or storage.
Digital signatures: SHA-256 is used to create digital signatures that verify the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents and messages.
Blockchain technology: SHA-256 forms the backbone of blockchains like Bitcoin, ensuring the immutability and security of transaction records.