What does a matching SHA-256 checksum mean?
It strongly indicates the file bytes are identical to the reference file used to generate that checksum.
How to check a file SHA-256 checksum
A checksum lets you compare the actual bytes of a file with a known fingerprint from a trusted source.
Generate the SHA-256 hash and compare it character-for-character.
If your calculated SHA-256 checksum exactly matches the trusted checksum, the file bytes match that reference fingerprint.
Calculate checksum →Verify a file with SHA-256
- Choose the file.Select the exact file you want to verify.
- Select SHA-256.SHA-256 is a strong general-purpose integrity-check algorithm.
- Calculate the hash.Copy the hexadecimal checksum shown by the tool.
- Compare it exactly.The calculated value must match the trusted checksum character-for-character.
Filename is not the hash input
Renaming a file does not change its checksum if the file bytes remain identical.
Use a trusted reference
A checksum only helps verification when the checksum you compare against came from a source you trust.
Common questions
Does changing one byte change the checksum?
Yes. Even a tiny content change produces a different cryptographic hash.
Is SHA-1 also available?
Yes, but SHA-256 is the stronger general-purpose default for integrity checks.