Definition of «hash»

Usage examples

1. Hash is commonly used in computer programming as a data structure, which allows efficient retrieval of data by mapping keys to values. For example, you can create a hash table to store a large number of items and quickly access them based on their unique keys.
2. In cryptography, a hash function is used to convert an input (such as a password or a file) into a fixed-size string of characters. This is commonly used to verify data integrity or generate digital signatures. For instance, you can hash a password before storing it in a database to enhance security.
3. When working with version control systems, such as Git, hashes are used to uniquely identify each commit. This ensures that every version of a project can be tracked, compared, and restored if necessary. Developers often refer to commit hashes to discuss specific changes or branches within a codebase.
4. Hashing is also utilized in blockchain technology, where it plays a crucial role in ensuring the immutability and integrity of data. Each block in a blockchain is associated with a unique hash, which is generated based on the block's content and the hash of the previous block. This creates a secure chain of blocks, as any modification to a previous block would invalidate all subsequent hashes.
5. In password storage, it is considered best practice to hash passwords instead of storing them directly. This adds an extra layer of protection since the original password cannot be revealed even if the hashed data is accessed. Hash functions like bcrypt or scrypt are commonly employed for password hashing.