Explain difference between Hashing and Encryption algorithms

Hashing and encryption are both fundamental techniques in cryptography, but they serve different purposes and operate in distinct ways. Here is a detailed explanation of the differences between hashing and encryption algorithms:

Hashing

Definition

Hashing is a one-way process that transforms input data of any size into a fixed-length string of characters, which is typically a hash value or hash code. This transformation is done using a hash function.

Purpose

The primary purpose of hashing is to ensure data integrity. It is used to verify that data has not been altered. Hashing is commonly used in various applications such as storing passwords, verifying data integrity, and digital signatures.

Characteristics

• Irreversibility: Hashing is a one-way function, meaning that it is computationally infeasible to reverse the hash value to obtain the original input data[1][2][4][5].
• Fixed Length: Regardless of the input size, the output hash value is always of a fixed length[1][3][5].
• Deterministic: The same input will always produce the same hash value[4][12].
• Collision Resistance: A good hash function minimizes the chances of two different inputs producing the same hash value, although collisions can theoretically occur[1][4][12].

Examples

Common hashing algorithms include MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-3[5][12][16].

Encryption

Definition

Encryption is a two-way process that transforms plaintext (readable data) into ciphertext (unreadable data) using an encryption algorithm and a key. The ciphertext can be reverted back to the original plaintext using a decryption key.

Purpose

The primary purpose of encryption is to ensure data confidentiality. It protects data from unauthorized access by making it unreadable to anyone who does not have the decryption key.

Characteristics

• Reversibility: Encryption is a reversible process, meaning that the ciphertext can be decrypted back into the original plaintext using the appropriate key[1][2][3][5].
• Variable Length: The length of the ciphertext can vary depending on the length of the input data and the encryption algorithm used[1][3][5].
• Key Dependency: Encryption relies on keys for both the encryption and decryption processes. There are two main types of encryption: symmetric (same key for encryption and decryption) and asymmetric (different keys for encryption and decryption)[1][3][5][10].

Examples

Common encryption algorithms include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman), and Blowfis...