AI engineering glossary · Computing foundations
What is hash function?
Hash function (also called Hashing): A function that turns input of any size into a fixed-size value, so that the same input always gives the same output and even a tiny change gives a very different one. Cryptographic versions also make it infeasible to reverse or find collisions.
Hash function: an example
The SHA-256 hash of any file is always 256 bits long, whether the file is one byte or one gigabyte.
Related terms
More Computing foundations terms
Where you learn it
Hash function is part of the AI Engineering Program, which teaches it with notes, a hands-on lab and an exam. The first lesson is free.