Free RIPEMD-160 Hash Generator Online
Generate RIPEMD-160 hashes instantly in your browser. This tool runs 100% client-side, ensuring your input never leaves your device while providing fast and reliable results.
RIPEMD-160 Hash Generator
RIPEMD-160 FAQ
What is RIPEMD-160?
RIPEMD-160 is a cryptographic hash function producing a 160-bit (20-byte) digest. It was designed in 1996 as an improvement over the original RIPEMD algorithm.
Is RIPEMD-160 secure?
RIPEMD-160 is considered secure for blockchain contexts like Bitcoin, but newer algorithms such as SHA-256 or SHA-3 are preferred for modern cryptography.
Where is RIPEMD-160 used?
It is primarily used in blockchain technology, especially in Bitcoin where it's combined with SHA-256 for address generation.
How does it compare to MD5 or SHA-1?
RIPEMD-160 offers better security than MD5 and SHA-1, but it has been surpassed by modern hash functions like SHA-2, SHA-3, and BLAKE2.
Can I use RIPEMD-160 for passwords?
No. RIPEMD-160 is not suitable for password storage. Instead, use Argon2, bcrypt, or PBKDF2.
What is RIPEMD-160?
RIPEMD-160 (RACE Integrity Primitives Evaluation Message Digest) is a cryptographic hash function designed in 1996 as an improvement over the original RIPEMD. It generates a 160-bit digest, expressed as a 40-character hexadecimal string. While not as mainstream as SHA, it plays a critical role in blockchain technology and legacy cryptographic systems.
Key Features
- Produces fixed-length 160-bit hashes
- Optimized for performance and verification
- Collision resistance better than MD5 and SHA-1 at time of design
Use Cases
RIPEMD-160 is widely used in blockchain systems, particularly in Bitcoin:
- Bitcoin addresses — created by double hashing (SHA-256 + RIPEMD-160)
- Cryptocurrency wallets — deriving short, user-friendly identifiers
- Legacy applications requiring 160-bit digests
Comparison with Other Hashes
| Algorithm | Hash Size | Security Status | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| MD5 | 128-bit | Broken | Checksums |
| SHA-1 | 160-bit | Weak | Legacy systems |
| RIPEMD-160 | 160-bit | Acceptable in blockchain | Bitcoin, wallets |
| SHA-256 | 256-bit | Secure | General cryptography |
Limitations
While still safe for Bitcoin and certain blockchain ecosystems, RIPEMD-160 is not recommended for new cryptographic designs. Developers should prefer SHA-256, Keccak (SHA-3), or BLAKE2/BLAKE3.
About This Tool
This free RIPEMD-160 Hash Generator lets you convert any text into its 160-bit digest instantly, directly in your browser. No data is uploaded to a server. Use it for learning, testing, or blockchain-related development. For secure password storage, use Argon2 or PBKDF2.