# SHA hash functions

> family of cryptographic hash functions

**Wikidata**: [Q387688](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q387688)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secure_Hash_Algorithms)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sha-hash-functions

## Summary
SHA hash functions are a family of cryptographic hash functions designed to produce fixed-size outputs from variable-length inputs, ensuring data integrity and security. They are part of the broader class of cryptographic hash functions, which are specifically engineered for use in cryptography due to their unique properties.

## Key Facts
- Part of the broader class of cryptographic hash functions, which are specialized for secure applications.
- Includes the SHA-3 set of cryptographic hash functions, standardized in 2015.
- SHA-0 is an individual cryptographic hash function with a 160-bit output size, developed in 1993.
- Aliases include Secure Hash Algorithm, SHA関数, and SHA 家族.
- Subclass of cryptographic hash functions, with a sitelink count of 26.
- Wikipedia articles exist in multiple languages, including English, German, and Spanish.
- Standardized as part of Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 202 and FIPS 180-4 in 2015.

## FAQs
### Q: What are SHA hash functions used for?
A: SHA hash functions are primarily used to ensure data integrity and security by generating fixed-size outputs from variable-length inputs, making them suitable for cryptographic applications.

### Q: When was the SHA-3 standard released?
A: The SHA-3 standard was released on August 5, 2015, as part of Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 202.

### Q: What is the output size of SHA-0?
A: SHA-0 has an output size of 160 bits, developed in 1993.

### Q: Are SHA hash functions part of a larger cryptographic family?
A: Yes, SHA hash functions are part of the broader class of cryptographic hash functions, which are specifically designed for secure applications.

### Q: In which languages are Wikipedia articles available for SHA hash functions?
A: Wikipedia articles on SHA hash functions are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and Spanish.

## Why It Matters
SHA hash functions play a crucial role in cryptography by providing a secure way to verify data integrity. They are widely used in digital signatures, certificates, and secure communication protocols. The development of SHA-3 in 2015 marked a significant advancement in cryptographic standards, ensuring stronger security against potential vulnerabilities. These functions are essential for protecting sensitive information in various digital applications, making them a cornerstone of modern cybersecurity.

## Notable For
- Being part of the cryptographic hash function class, which is specialized for secure applications.
- The release of SHA-3 in 2015, which introduced a new standard for cryptographic hash functions.
- The inclusion of SHA-0, an early version with a 160-bit output size, developed in 1993.
- Availability of Wikipedia articles in multiple languages, indicating broad interest and usage.
- Standardization under Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 202 and FIPS 180-4, ensuring widespread adoption and compliance.

## Body
### Overview
SHA hash functions are a family of cryptographic hash functions designed to produce fixed-size outputs from variable-length inputs. They are part of the broader class of cryptographic hash functions, which are specifically engineered for use in cryptography due to their unique properties.

### Development and Standards
- **SHA-3**: The SHA-3 standard was released on August 5, 2015, as part of Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 202. This standard specifies the SHA-3 family of hash functions, which includes algorithms like SHA3-224, SHA3-256, SHA3-384, and SHA3-512.
- **SHA-0**: An early version of the SHA family, SHA-0, was developed in 1993 with an output size of 160 bits. It was later superseded by SHA-1 and other more secure versions.

### Usage and Applications
SHA hash functions are widely used in various cryptographic applications, including:
- **Data Integrity**: Ensuring that data has not been altered during transmission or storage.
- **Digital Signatures**: Verifying the authenticity and integrity of digital signatures.
- **Secure Communication**: Protecting sensitive information in communication protocols.

### Language and Accessibility
Wikipedia articles on SHA hash functions are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and Spanish, indicating broad interest and usage across different linguistic communities.

### Aliases and Identifiers
SHA hash functions are also known by various aliases, including Secure Hash Algorithm, SHA関数, and SHA 家族. They are referenced in multiple databases and knowledge systems, such as Freebase, Quora, and Techopedia, highlighting their significance in the field of cryptography.

## References

1. Quora