# BLAKE

> cryptographic hash function

**Wikidata**: [Q108544539](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108544539)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/blake

## Summary
BLAKE is a cryptographic hash function designed for use in hashing operations. It belongs to a special class of hash functions that possess properties suitable for cryptography. The function was subsequently succeeded by BLAKE2.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** BLAKE is an instance of a cryptographic hash function.
- **Function:** Its primary use is hashing.
- **Successor:** The algorithm was followed by BLAKE2.
- **Successor Inception:** BLAKE2 was introduced on December 21, 2012.
- **Defining Property:** As a cryptographic hash function, it has specific properties making it suitable for use in cryptography.

## FAQs
### Q: What type of algorithm is BLAKE?
A: BLAKE is a cryptographic hash function. It is used for hashing and possesses specific properties required for cryptographic applications.

### Q: What came after BLAKE?
A: BLAKE was followed by BLAKE2, which is also a cryptographic hash function.

### Q: When was the successor to BLAKE released?
A: BLAKE2, the successor to BLAKE, has an inception date of December 21, 2012.

## Why It Matters
BLAKE matters as a fundamental component in the field of data security and cryptography. As a cryptographic hash function, it fulfills a critical role in ensuring data integrity and authenticity through the hashing process. By belonging to a class of functions with properties suitable for cryptography, BLAKE provides the necessary mathematical rigor to secure digital information.

Its significance is further highlighted by its evolution; the algorithm served as the direct predecessor to BLAKE2. This progression demonstrates the functional utility of the original BLAKE design, leading to further developments in hashing technology aimed at optimizing cryptographic security. The existence of a distinct successor underscores BLAKE's role in the timeline of cryptographic standards.

## Notable For
- Being a specialized hash function suitable for cryptographic use.
- Serving as the direct predecessor to the BLAKE2 cryptographic function.
- Functioning as a standard for hashing operations within its class.
- Belonging to the class of cryptographic hash functions defined by security-specific properties.

## Body
### Classification and Function
BLAKE is explicitly classified as an instance of a cryptographic hash function. It utilizes the process of hashing to transform data into a fixed-size string of characters, typically for security purposes. As a member of the cryptographic hash function class, it is distinguished by having specific properties that make it suitable for use in cryptography, such as collision resistance and preimage resistance, though these specific technical properties are implied by its classification.

### Succession and Timeline
The entity BLAKE holds a direct relationship with its successor, BLAKE2. Structured data indicates that BLAKE is "followed_by" BLAKE2. 

Details regarding the successor include:
- **Entity:** BLAKE2
- **Class:** Cryptographic hash function
- **Inception:** December 21, 2012
- **Source:** Announced via cryptography mailing lists (specifically randombit.net).

The development of BLAKE2 confirms the lineage of the original BLAKE function, marking it as a distinct step in the evolution of this family of cryptographic algorithms.