SHAKE128 Checksum Calculator
About SHAKE128
SHAKE128 is an extendable-output function (XOF) from the SHA-3 family, standardized by NIST in 2015 (FIPS 202). Unlike traditional hash functions, SHAKE128 can produce outputs of any desired length, making it highly versatile for various cryptographic applications.
Key Features
- Variable output length (extendable to any desired size).
- Part of the SHA-3 standard, based on the Keccak sponge function.
- 128-bit security strength for collision resistance.
- Efficient implementation in both hardware and software.
Security Benefits
- Provides 128 bits of security strength against all attacks.
- Resistant to length extension attacks.
- Based on the well-analyzed Keccak permutation.
- Suitable for lightweight applications requiring variable output lengths.
Common Use Cases
- Key Derivation: Generating multiple keys from a single input.
- Stream Cipher: Using the variable-length output as a keystream.
- Random Number Generation: Creating deterministic random numbers.
- Lightweight Applications: When 128-bit security is sufficient.
- Hash-based Signatures: Used in some post-quantum signature schemes.
SHAKE128 vs SHAKE256
SHAKE128:
- 128-bit security strength.
- Faster performance.
- Suitable for most applications.
- Lower resource requirements.
SHAKE256:
- 256-bit security strength.
- Higher security margin.
- Better for long-term security.
- More resource intensive.
Both offer variable-length output, but differ in their security strength and performance characteristics.
Technical Deep Dive
Understanding SHAKE128
SHAKE (Secure Hash Algorithm Keccak) is a groundbreaking member of the SHA-3 family, designed by the Keccak team and standardized by NIST. The "128" in SHAKE128 represents its security strength level, providing 128 bits of security when using a 256-bit output length. What makes SHAKE128 particularly innovative is its implementation of the sponge construction—a unique approach where data is first "absorbed" into a fixed-size internal state and then "squeezed" out to produce the desired output length.
Advanced Features
- • Extendable Output: Unlike traditional hash functions, SHAKE128 can generate outputs of any desired length.
- • Sponge Construction: Provides natural resistance against length extension attacks.
- • Flexible Security: Security strength can be adjusted by varying the output length.
Specialized Applications
- ◆ Post-Quantum Cryptography:
Used in advanced signature schemes like SPHINCS+ for quantum-resistant security.
- ◆ Key Derivation:
Excellent for generating multiple keys from a single input source.
- ◆ Pseudo-Random Generation:
Powers deterministic random bit generators (DRBGs) for cryptographic applications.
Comparison with SHA3-256
| Feature | SHAKE128 | SHA3-256 |
|---|---|---|
| Output Length | Variable | Fixed (256 bits) |
| Security Level | 128 bits | 256 bits |
| Construction | Sponge | Sponge |
| Performance | Faster | Slower |