SHA-2 (Secure Hash Algorithm 2), of which SHA-256 is a part, is one of the most popular hashing algorithms out there. In this article, we’re goi

How SHA-256 Works Step-By-Step

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2021-07-09 07:00:04

SHA-2 (Secure Hash Algorithm 2), of which SHA-256 is a part, is one of the most popular hashing algorithms out there. In this article, we’re going to break down each step of the algorithm and work through a real-life example by hand. SHA-2 is known for its security (it hasn’t broken down like SHA-1), and its speed. In cases where keys are not being generated, such as mining Bitcoin, a fast hash algorithm like SHA-2 often reigns supreme.

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SHA-2 is a very famous and strong family of hash functions, as as you would expect, it fulfills all of the above purposes. Take a look at our article on hash functions if you need to brush up on their properties.

SHA-2 is an algorithm, a generalized idea of how to hash data. SHA-2 has several variants that all use the same algorithm but use different constants. SHA-256, for example. sets additional constants that define the SHA-2 algorithm’s behavior, one such constant being the output size, 256. The 256 and 512 in SHA-256 and SHA-512 refer to their respective digest sizes in bits.