Verify the integrity of downloaded file through checksum

A file checksum is a series of characters (hash) generated for a file through an algorithm. This checksum is always unique to that file. Any change in the content of the file will change the hash. This hash is used the check the integrity of the file.

This is quite useful when you have to distribute a file through public distribution methods. There might be a chance that someone inserts a virus / Trojan / spyware in your file or change the content of your file for any other malicious purpose. This will tarnish your reputation as other person will think that you are responsible. To avoid such a situation a hash is generated at the publisher end and is mentioned at the source. After downloading the file, user can regenerate the hash from downloaded file and match it with the publisher’s. If it matches then it is the original content.

File Checksum Tool does not require installation, it is portable. This is very useful as you can easily validate a file wherever you require. The interface is very simple to use [Fig 1]. You can browse to the file for which you want to generate the checksum or you can drag and drop the file on the main window.

There are following algorithms you can choose to generate the checksum:

SHA-1, MD5, MD2, HAVAL, SHA-256, SHA-384, SHA-512

One of the most popular among them is MD5.

Once the hash is generated you can copy it by clicking a button. To check the hash of a file you have to paste the hash you have got and get the checksum generated by the tool. You can then compare them.

Conclusion: Earlier this kind of checksum was done for very important or large files but as more and more malware are infecting the internet, it is becoming necessary. I would suggest you to use this tool whenever possible, especially if you are downloading from public distribution channel. This tool being freeware is another advantage.