On Sun, 10 Jul 2005 01:38:28 -0400, Jeremy S. <JercoS@gmail.com> wrote:

>> Both formulas are used to convert unknown length documents into
>> 128-bit numbers. Both are one way hashes, meaning it's impossible to
>> determine the
>> correct document contents, from just the hash value.

> kinda ya but in practice a hash can be reversed by trying every
> possible combination until one that matches is found (eg brute force)
> the most common example would be password breaking (eg "cracking")
> other than that your explination was perfect!

Thanks!!!

For short documents, like passwords, I agree. For longer documents,
I understood that, since there are collisions, even brute force
isn't effective, since you can't know which of the possible
source documents was actually used.

In future though, I'll try to remember to say "very difficult",
instead of impossible<G>.

Regards, Dave Hodgins

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