Hash function
- Term
- Hash function
- Exam
- CISA & CISM
- Definition
A one-way function producing a fixed-length value from data, used to detect changes.
- Explained
A hash function produces a fixed-length value from data; any change to the data changes the hash. Hashes verify integrity of files and evidence, and salted, slow hashes protect stored passwords.
- In practice
Comparing SHA-256 values before and after copying evidence to prove it is unchanged.
- Often confused with
- Encryption
- Exam angle
Hashes verify integrity; salted slow hashes protect passwords.
- Related