How to Verify SHA256 Checksum on Windows

Verifying a SHA256 checksum ensures that a downloaded file has not been modified, corrupted, or tampered with. Windows includes built-in tools to calculate SHA256 hashes without installing any software.

Method 1: Using Command Prompt (certutil)

Press Win + R, type cmd and press Enter.
Navigate to your file location:

cd C:\Users\YourName\Downloads

Run the following command:

certutil -hashfile filename.exe SHA256

Windows will display the SHA256 checksum of the file.

Method 2: Using PowerShell

Right-click Start and open Windows PowerShell.
Run the following command:

Get-FileHash filename.exe -Algorithm SHA256

PowerShell will generate the SHA256 hash instantly.

How to Compare the Checksum

Copy the official SHA256 checksum from the website you downloaded the file from.
Compare it with the generated value.
If both values match exactly, the file is authentic.

Verify SHA256 Online

If you prefer a browser-based tool, use our SHA256 Generator or the full Checksum Verification Tool.

Why verifying SHA256 is important

Verifying SHA256 protects you from malware-infected downloads and corrupted files. It ensures software installers, ISO images, and updates are safe before installation.