SHA-256 checksum calculator for files
Use the SHA-256 checksum calculator to hash selected files and download a JSON report. Compare the full hash with a checksum from the file's publisher. Free to use, with no sign-up required.
Files processed on your deviceFiles are read in this tab only. Nothing is uploaded.
01 How it works
- Choose one or more files.
- Calculate each file's SHA-256 hash in your browser.
- Download the JSON report.
02 Good to know
Matching hashes indicate identical file bytes. Files are read locally; hashing large files may use significant memory. Up to 1,000 files and 1 GiB total.
03Calculate and compare file hashes
Select the files you want to check. Forkgen calculates a SHA-256 hash for each selected file in your browser and prepares a JSON report.
To verify a download, compare all 64 hexadecimal characters with the checksum published by the software or file provider. A matching hash means the selected bytes match the bytes used to make that reference hash. Use a source you trust; a hash by itself does not prove who created a file.
04What a SHA-256 checksum tells you
SHA-256 maps the exact bytes of a file to a 256-bit digest, commonly written as 64 hexadecimal characters. A content change should change the digest. Renaming a file alone does not change its content hash.
Files with matching SHA-256 hashes are treated as identical by this tool. For a high-stakes verification, confirm the expected checksum through a trusted, independent channel.
05Files stay within the selection
Only files you select are processed. This tool does not search folders or scan your device. The selection is limited to 1,000 files and 1 GiB total. Hashing reads file data in the browser and may use substantial memory for large selections.
06 Questions
How do I check a file's SHA-256 checksum?
Select the file, calculate its hash, then compare the complete result with the SHA-256 checksum published by a source you trust.
How long is a SHA-256 hash?
The digest is 256 bits, usually shown as 64 hexadecimal characters.
Does a matching hash prove a file is safe?
No. It shows that the file's bytes match the reference checksum. It does not establish that the publisher or file is trustworthy.
Are folders scanned automatically?
No. The tool hashes only files you select, up to 1,000 files and 1 GiB total.