HMAC-SHA256 for Message Integrity
Create and verify HMAC-SHA256 signatures to ensure API payload integrity.
What Is HMAC?
HMAC (Hash-based Message Authentication Code) combines a cryptographic hash function with a secret key to produce a MAC. It proves both that the data has not been tampered with AND that the sender knows the secret key.
HMAC vs Plain Hash
A plain SHA-256 hash can be computed by anyone. HMAC requires the secret key — only parties that know the key can create or verify a valid HMAC. Plain hashes provide integrity but not authentication.
All lessons in this course
- Cryptographic Hashing with MessageDigest
- AES Symmetric Encryption
- HMAC-SHA256 for Message Integrity
- JWT: Structure, Creation, and Verification