SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/secplus-sha256-digest-length
How long is a SHA-256 hash output, called the message digest?
256 bits, as the name says.
- 160 bits
- 256 bits ✔
- 512 bits
Why: SHA-256 turns input of any size into a fixed 256-bit digest. SHA-1 gives 160 bits and SHA-512 gives 512 bits.
Huh, didn't know that: FIPS 180-4 specifies seven hash algorithms, with digest sizes from 160 to 512 bits.
Why did the hash fit every file? It is a one size fits all kind of function.
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References
Answer: 256 bits. SHA-256 turns input of any size into a fixed 256-bit digest. SHA-1 gives 160 bits and SHA-512 gives 512 bits.
- FIPS 180-4, Secure Hash Standard nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/FIPS/NIST.FIPS.180-4.pdf
The message digests range in length from 160 to 512 bits, depending on the algorithm.
Checked 2026-10-10.
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