Homonym: Hash (Food)
A "hash" is a function that converts input data of any size into a fixed-size string of characters, typically a sequence of numbers and letters. This process is commonly used in computer science for data integrity, ensuring that even a small change in the input will produce a significantly different output. Hash functions are essential in various applications, including data storage, password security, and digital signatures.
In the context of cryptography, hashes play a crucial role in securing sensitive information. For example, when storing passwords, systems often save the hash of the password instead of the password itself. This way, even if the data is compromised, the actual passwords remain protected, as it is nearly impossible to reverse-engineer the original input from the hash.