SHAKE Generator (XOF)
Create SHAKE128 and SHAKE256 hashes instantly with customizable output length. SHAKE belongs to the SHA-3 cryptographic family and is an extendable-output function (XOF), letting you generate digests of any size. All hashing runs 100% client-side, so your data never leaves your device.
SHAKE Generator (XOF)
SHAKE FAQ
What is SHAKE used for?
SHAKE is used for cryptographic applications requiring variable-length output, such as key generation, digital signatures, and unique identifiers.
What’s the difference between SHAKE128 and SHAKE256?
SHAKE128 provides 128-bit security strength, while SHAKE256 provides 256-bit. Choose based on your required security level.
Why is SHAKE flexible?
Unlike fixed-length hashes (SHA-256, SHA-512), SHAKE allows you to specify the exact output length, making it highly versatile.
Is SHAKE secure?
Yes. SHAKE is part of the SHA-3 family and is considered highly secure when configured with sufficient output length.
Is SHAKE used in blockchain?
While SHAKE is less common in current blockchains than Keccak-256, it is standardized in FIPS 202 and is used in some advanced crypto protocols.
What is SHAKE?
SHAKE (Secure Hash Algorithm KECCAK) is an extendable-output function (XOF) belonging to the SHA-3 cryptographic family. Unlike traditional hash functions such as SHA-256 or SHA-512, which always produce a fixed-length digest, SHAKE can generate outputs of arbitrary length. This makes it a powerful and flexible tool for cryptographic applications where variable-sized outputs are required.
How SHAKE Works
SHAKE functions are built on the same sponge construction as Keccak (the winner of the NIST SHA-3 competition). The sponge process allows data to be absorbed into an internal state and then "squeezed" out into an output stream of any length:
- Absorb: The input message is mixed into the internal state.
- Permute: The state undergoes cryptographic permutations for diffusion.
- Squeeze: Output bits are extracted until the desired length is reached.
This flexibility is what differentiates SHAKE from fixed-output algorithms like SHA-256, making it highly useful for tasks such as key derivation and digital signatures.
SHAKE Variants
Two standardized versions of SHAKE exist, each offering a different level of security strength:
| Variant | Security Strength | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| SHAKE128 | 128-bit | Faster, suitable for lightweight applications, non-critical crypto functions. |
| SHAKE256 | 256-bit | High-security applications such as digital signatures, blockchain systems, and key derivation. |
Practical Applications
SHAKE is trusted in a variety of cryptographic and real-world systems, including:
- Key Derivation Functions (KDFs): Deriving secure keys of arbitrary size.
- Digital Signatures: Generating variable-length digests for signing schemes.
- Blockchain & Cryptocurrencies: Used in advanced protocols requiring flexible hashing.
- Data Integrity: Producing checksums with customizable output sizes.
About This Tool
This SHAKE Hash Generator allows you to:
- Choose between SHAKE128 or SHAKE256.
- Input any custom message or text.
- Generate hashes of any desired length (e.g., 256 bits, 512 bits, 1024 bits).
- Run everything securely in your browser — 100% client-side, ensuring privacy.
By experimenting with SHAKE, you gain insight into the future of flexible cryptographic primitives. Whether you are studying post-quantum cryptography, building secure applications, or simply exploring modern hashing techniques, SHAKE offers unmatched adaptability and strength.