What is Hashing?

Hashing is a way computers turn information into a special code, called a hash, to keep it safe and organized. Imagine you have a secret message, and you want to keep it private. Hashing helps by changing the message into a string of letters and numbers that look like gibberish. Only someone with the right key can turn it back into the original message.

Why Do We Use Hashing?

Hashing is super important because it helps keep our information secure. Think of hashing like a magical lock on a treasure chest. When you put your treasure inside and close the lock, it changes the shape of the keyhole. Only the right key can open it. Hashing works like that. It makes sure that no one else can read your information without the secret key.

How Does Hashing Work?

Hashing is like a clever math trick. When you put information into a computer, the computer uses a special recipe called a hash function. This function takes your information and mixes it all up in a special way to create a unique code. Each piece of information will have its own unique hash. But here’s the cool part: even if you make just a tiny change in the original information, the hash will look completely different! It’s like putting ingredients into a blender to make a smoothie. If you add just one extra berry, the whole smoothie changes color.

Hashing is used in many places, like when you save passwords on websites or when you’re sending secret messages to your friends. It helps keep everything safe and sound so that only the right people can see the original information.