Collision-Resistant Hash

Definition ∞ A collision-resistant hash function is a cryptographic algorithm where finding two distinct inputs that yield an identical output hash is computationally infeasible. This property is fundamental for the security of many cryptographic systems, including digital signatures, blockchain data integrity, and password storage. It ensures that any alteration to the input data results in a different hash output, making tampering detectable. The strength of a blockchain’s immutability relies heavily on the collision resistance of its underlying hash functions, protecting transaction records from unauthorized modification.
Context ∞ The security of blockchain networks and digital assets critically depends on the ongoing integrity of collision-resistant hash functions. Researchers continually evaluate the resilience of widely used hash algorithms against new computational methods and cryptanalytic attacks. Any discovery of a practical collision for a deployed hash function would represent a significant security event, necessitating immediate protocol upgrades across affected digital asset systems.