Hash Functions vs Message Authentication Code

Developers should learn hash functions for implementing data integrity checks (e meets developers should learn and use macs when building systems that require data integrity and authenticity, such as in network protocols (e. Here's our take.

Hash Functions

Nice Pick

Developers should learn hash functions for implementing data integrity checks (e

Pros

• g
• Related to: cryptography, data-structures

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Message Authentication Code

Developers should learn and use MACs when building systems that require data integrity and authenticity, such as in network protocols (e

Pros

• g
• Related to: cryptography, hmac

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

Use Hash Functions if: You want g and can live with specific tradeoffs depend on your use case.

Use Message Authentication Code if: You prioritize g over what Hash Functions offers.

The Bottom Line

Hash Functions wins

Developers should learn hash functions for implementing data integrity checks (e