How do I generate an MD5 or SHA-256 hash online?

Go to virtualtexttools.com, open the Code category and select Hash, then type or paste your text. MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 hashes are generated instantly as you type, each with its own copy button. It runs entirely in your browser with no signup and nothing uploaded.

A hash is a fixed-length fingerprint computed from any input. The same input always produces the same hash, but even a one-character change produces a completely different hash, and the original text cannot be recovered from the hash alone. This makes hashes ideal for verifying that data has not changed.

Which hash algorithm should I use?

For anything security-related, use SHA-256 or SHA-512 — both are current, unbroken standards. MD5 and SHA-1 are cryptographically broken and should only be used for non-security purposes such as checksums, cache keys, deduplication, or compatibility with legacy systems that require them.

Is it safe to hash sensitive text online?

It depends on the tool. Many online hash generators send your input to a server, which is a real risk if you are hashing passwords, tokens, or private data. Virtual Text Tools computes every hash locally in your browser using the Web Crypto API, so your input never leaves your device.

Why do MD5 and SHA-256 produce different length outputs?

Each algorithm produces a fixed output size: MD5 is 128 bits (32 hex characters), SHA-1 is 160 bits (40 characters), SHA-256 is 256 bits (64 characters), and SHA-512 is 512 bits (128 characters). Longer outputs provide more collision resistance, which is one reason SHA-256 and SHA-512 are the modern standards.

Virtual Text Tools

Guide

Hash Generator Online — MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256 & SHA-512, Free

Written by Alex Johnson · 7 min read · July 2026 · Virtual Text Tools

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Hash Generator

MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256 & SHA-512 — generated locally

Input text

UPPERCASE output

MD5

SHA-1

SHA-256

SHA-512

Note: MD5 and SHA-1 are shown for checksums and legacy compatibility — do not use them for security purposes. All hashing runs locally in your browser.

Runs entirely in your browser — nothing is uploaded. No limits, no signup.