What are hashes

Hashing is the process of converting plain texts data of any length into a unique encrypted text using a mathematical function.

It is a one-way cryptographic process and hashes are used to authenticate various types of inputs such as files, documents and secure sensitive data. The encoded text which is called a hash, can be stored and later used to verify the user.

Hashes will not reveal passwords when there is a data breach. They are meant to be irreversible and no decryption key can convert or digest back to its original value.