The SHA-256 replacement avalanche: what is in the stake and that bitcoin remains safe
In recent years, Ethereum has experienced an increase in adoption with its decentralized network, which allowed users to create, send and store several digital devices. However, one of the most critical components of this network is the HASH function: SHA-256 (hash algorithm sure 256). This cryptographic algorithm has been used for decades, but is approaching at the end of life, it is time to consider possible replacements.
Increase and fall in MD5
Before entering the consequences of the SHA-256 replacement, let’s look at a brief look at how the MD5 has performed in the past, another widely used hash function. The MD5 was once considered safe for its wide acceptance, but it turned out to be vulnerable to collisions (different entries that produce the same output). In 2004, a group of cryptographers published an article that highlights these errors and a possible obsolescence of the MD5 for the devaluation of the Internet Engineering Working Group (IETF).
Fast Progress to SHA-256: In 2019, IETF officially recommended the MD5 replacement with SHA-256. While this decision was adopted with some resistance to traditional cryptographic communities, most experts agree that it is time to move forward.
What will happen if they find errors in the SHA-256?
If errors are discovered in SHA-256, they can potentially lead to different questions, including the following:
- Data reuse attacks : Computer pirates can take advantage of the weaknesses of the hash function by allowing them to reuse or modify the already divided data.
- Key investment attacks : Similarly, if an error is found in the key management system associated with SHA-256, the attacker can potentially convert confidential engineering information.
- Preimagen attacks : In some cases, the attacker can be achieved to create a large entry extract value without any connection with the original data.
Focus switch: Ethereum solution
Ethereum developers have been working in recent years to improve SHA-256 security. The last iteration of this algorithm is called
Ethash
, which uses a new combination of cryptographic techniques, including ring firms and HASH time filling systems to improve its general safety.
In addition to Ethash, other alternatives are explored in terms of future potential replacements:
- SHA-3 : Another set of cryptographic algorithms designed to be safer than SHA-256.
- Blake2s : An open source hash function that uses a combination of hash and cryptographic techniques to create a safe digital signature scheme.
While these alternatives have been developed, Ethereum is still committed to guaranteeing the safety and integrity of users. Meanwhile, we can take measures to protect ourselves from possible vulnerabilities:
- Use between the encryption of final points
: When transferring funds, use a reputation or wallet to use encryption between the final points.
- Keep the upward software -to -Date : Update the operating system, the browser and other software regularly to guarantee the latest safety corrections.
- Be careful with the public Wi-Fi : Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for confidential transactions, since they can be vulnerable to listen.
Conclusion
The next replacement of the Ethereumon SHA-256 is an exciting development that highlights the importance of cryptographic research and innovation. As we sail for this new landscape, it is crucial to remain alert to possible vulnerabilities and take measures to protect us. This gives you a safe and reliable digital ecosystem for all.
Sources
- [Ethereum.org] (
- [Blockchain Council] (
By informing and updating the latest developments in the cryptography and Ethereum network, we can work together to create a safer future for our digital tools.
