CalHash For Mac

Hashes, or checksums, are used for multiple purposes. They help you ensure that a downloaded file is not corrupt, and they provide an easy way to verify that a file has not been tampered with en route from its source to your device.

CalHash is a very simple app that enables you to calculate hashes and compare them with values that are already available. It supports numerous algorithms and stores logs of all operations and generated hashes.

The UI has a straightforward layout. Select the algorithm you wish to use, load the file, and then inspect the available info in the main window. You can see the file’s path, size, checksum, and icon, as well as reveal its location in Finder. Sadly, drag and drop cannot be used to import files.

Once a checksum has been calculated, you can grab a hash value you already have, such as one provided by a software publisher, and paste it in the field at the bottom of the window. The app will tell you if the two match, and if they don’t, you know the file is either corrupt or has been modified by a third party.

If you want to quickly get through a bunch of files without writing down the calculated hash for each, you can just consult the log later. This stores the path, algorithm, and checksum of all past operations, for either the current session or all app launches.

The log window can even be opened automatically at launch, and all logs deleted when it’s closed. It can be accessed from either the File menu or the app’s menu bar icon, and the latter can be hidden if you prefer.

It would be nice if CalHash supported drag & drop and if it were possible to process multiple files at once. If you need to work quickly and get through a bunch of files as part of your workflow, it might not be an ideal solution. But for calculating and comparing the hashes of individual files, it’s a great tool for the job.