Crypto
17 technical articles and tutorials in the Crypto category
GB/T 32907, GM/T 0004, RFC 8998: Decoding the Standard Numbers Behind SM2/SM3/SM4
A decoder ring for the standard numbers that come with every Chinese national crypto requirement: which GM/T number became which GB/T standard, where ISO/IEC and RFC 8998 fit in, and what each document actually specifies for SM2, SM3 and SM4.
Read moreSM2/SM3/SM4 in Practice: Choosing, Integrating, and Debugging Chinese National Cryptography
A field guide to Chinese national crypto algorithms: when SM4 vs SM3 vs SM2 applies, why ciphertext mismatches happen in integration, the debug order that resolves 90% of SM4 failures, and the key-management line you must never cross.
Read moreSHA-256 Hash Algorithm: How It Works, Applications, and Online Tools
Understand SHA-256 internals, comparison with MD5/SHA-1, and real-world applications in password storage, blockchain, and file integrity.
Read moreComplete Guide to MD5 Hash: How It Works, Uses, and Security
Deep dive into the MD5 algorithm, its common uses, and security vulnerabilities. Learn the differences between MD5, SHA-1, and SHA-256, and when MD5 is still okay to use.
Read moreWhat is a Hash Collision? MD5 and SHA-256 Security Deep Dive
Hash collisions explained: pigeonhole principle, birthday paradox, real attacks on MD5 and SHA-1, and why SHA-256 still holds. Includes Python code and a decision table for picking the right algorithm.
Read moreSHA256 vs MD5: What Is the Difference and Which to Use?
SHA256 vs MD5 difference, why MD5 is no longer safe, and which hash to use for file verification? Compares length, security, and use cases, with our SHA256/MD5 tools.
Read moreCan MD5 Be "Decrypted"? What Is a Collision?
People say "MD5 decrypt" — can MD5 actually recover the original? What is a collision attack and why is it dangerous? Clears the misconceptions, with our MD5 / SHA256 tools.
Read moreHow to Verify File or Text Hashes Match (SHA-256 Comparison for Integrity)
Downloaded a file—how do you know it wasn't tampered with? Learn how hash verification works and step-by-step how to compare SHA-256/MD5 locally to confirm integrity.
Read moreOnline HMAC Generator: Message Authentication Code Explained
Learn how HMAC (Hash-based Message Authentication Code) works. Understand HMAC-SHA256 workflows, real-world use cases, and how to generate and verify HMAC signatures online.
Read moreOnline Bcrypt Hash Tool: The Gold Standard for Password Hashing
Learn how Bcrypt password hashing works. Understand cost factors, salt generation, and how to use an online tool to generate and verify Bcrypt hashes.
Read moreJWT vs Session Cookies: Authentication Comparison and Selection Guide
Sessions are server-side state, JWT is a stateless token. Compare them on microservices fit, SPA compatibility, revocation, and security. Includes common JWT pitfalls and a decision framework.
Read moreAES Encryption in the Browser: A Practical Guide to Web Crypto API
Learn AES encryption in JavaScript using the Web Crypto API. Complete AES-256-GCM encrypt/decrypt example with PBKDF2 key derivation, all running client-side.
Read moreOnline RSA Encryption/Decryption: Asymmetric Crypto and Digital Signatures
Learn RSA asymmetric encryption algorithm principles and applications. Understand public/private key encryption, digital signatures, key pair generation, and use in HTTPS and API authentication.
Read moreSHA-256 vs MD5: When to Use Which Hash Algorithm (2026)
SHA-256 vs MD5 compared: security, speed, and use cases. Learn when MD5 is still acceptable and where you must use SHA-256. Practical decision guide.
Read moreHashing vs Encryption: What's the Difference and When to Use Each
Hashing and encryption are not the same. Hashes are one-way and irreversible; encryption is reversible with a key. Clear guide to choosing the right one for passwords, integrity, and confidentiality.
Read moreOnline AES Encryption Tool: Symmetric Encryption Guide
Learn AES symmetric encryption fundamentals. Understand AES-GCM mode, PBKDF2 key derivation, and how to encrypt and decrypt data using online tools.
Read moreIs It Safe to Paste Your JWT into an Online Decoder? On Token Leakage Risk
Is it safe to paste a JWT token into an online decoder? This article analyzes the security risks of online JWT decoding, token leakage risk, and how to safely decode a JWT without exposing private data.
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