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What Is the Difference between a Signature Algorithm and a Hashing Algorithm?

A hashing algorithm (like SHA-256) is a one-way function that transforms data of any size into a fixed-length output (the hash or digest). Its purpose is data integrity.

A signature algorithm (like ECDSA) is a two-part cryptographic scheme involving a private key to create a signature and a public key to verify it. Its purpose is authentication and non-repudiation.

A signature algorithm typically uses a hashing algorithm as a component.

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