A Secure Hash Algorithm 1 (SHA-1) checksum is a unique fingerprint or signature for a file. It is a 40-character alphanumeric string calculated using a mathematical function that takes the file’s content as input. SHA-1 checksums are used to verify the integrity of a file, ensuring that it has not been altered or corrupted during transmission or storage.
Checking a SHA-1 checksum is a critical step in ensuring the authenticity and reliability of a file. It allows you to compare the checksum of a downloaded file with the checksum of the original file to verify that they match. If the checksums match, it indicates that the file has not been tampered with and is safe to use.
