Hashing

Hashing involves using a mathematical function called a hash function to convert data of any size into a fixed-length hexadecimal output. Hash functions are one-way functions, meaning the original data cannot be derived from the hash. Unlike encryption, which aims to secure data during transmission or storage, hashing is primarily used for data authenticity verification. Hashing plays a crucial role in safeguarding network components such as passwords and sensitive information, which can be stored as hashes.