+A **hash function** is a mathematical operation that transforms an input of arbitrary size into a fixed-size value, known as a [hash](/wiki/hash) or message digest. This "fingerprint" is crucial for quickly locating data within a [hash table](/wiki/hash_table) or verifying data integrity.
+## See also
+- [Cryptography](/wiki/cryptography)
+- [Data Structure](/wiki/data_structure)
+- [Checksum](/wiki/checksum)