MD5sum

From iA wiki

See also: Hash | MD5 | Checksum

http://theopencd.sunsite.dk/md5.php

1. A string of letters and numbers that verify file integrity, also known as hashes. They look like this: d58afcae1eb5c1d36a11bc82c432a8be
2. The program that creates the above-mentioned string.

Part of the Free Software Foundation's utilities. Uses the MD5 hashing algorithm that is not as secure as SHA-1 but considered secure for most purposes and more secure than CRC32. It is advised to use multiple hashing algorithms such as MD5sum + SHA-1 + RMD160. For more information about MD5, consult the MD5 entry.

Uses:

• OpenOffice uses MD5sums in order to allow individuals to download program files from places (such as via BitTorrent/Links) but to be sure that the downloaded file is not infected with a virus or incomplete. MD5sums and instructions on their use.

• This program is very common for UNIX users to verify qualified downloads for critical applications.

• Individuals who download Shorten (.SHN) files often use MD5sum.

Determine or Check MD5sum in Windows

• md5summer Nice GUI MD5sum calculator

• MD5sum - simple, one-file version. In Windows 2000/XP, you may need to type "cmd" in the Run menu instead of "command" to handle longer file names.

• Hasher - a free, open-source program, easier for users not comfortable with the command-line.

• AccuHash 2.0 - a free in feature-limited mode, shareware program, support several checksum files formats and hash algorithms

• FastSum - free, simple and powerful command line tool for Windows

• md5sum - useful documentation and reviews