Secure Hash Algorithm

Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA) is a cryptographic tool that transforms data into a fixed-length string of characters, called a hash. Think of it like a digital fingerprint for information—no matter how big or small the data, the SHA produces a unique code. It's designed so that even a tiny change in the original data results in a completely different hash, ensuring integrity and authenticity. SHA is widely used in securing passwords, verifying data integrity, and digital signatures, helping to protect information from tampering or unauthorized access.