What process computes the hash value for a binary to help identify and track files across a network?

Prepare for the Certified Ethical Hacker Version 11 Exam. Study with comprehensive questions and explanations. Equip yourself with the skills needed for success!

Multiple Choice

What process computes the hash value for a binary to help identify and track files across a network?

Explanation:
File fingerprinting uses a hash value generated from a file’s contents to identify and track that exact file across systems or a network. By running a cryptographic hash (like MD5, SHA-1, or SHA-256) on the binary, you produce a compact, fixed-size fingerprint that uniquely represents that content. Any change to the file alters the hash, making it easy to detect tampering, confirm integrity, or locate the same file across multiple hosts. Tools that simply compute hashes exist, and services or imaging tools serve other purposes, but the process described—producing a hash to identify and track a file—is file fingerprinting.

File fingerprinting uses a hash value generated from a file’s contents to identify and track that exact file across systems or a network. By running a cryptographic hash (like MD5, SHA-1, or SHA-256) on the binary, you produce a compact, fixed-size fingerprint that uniquely represents that content. Any change to the file alters the hash, making it easy to detect tampering, confirm integrity, or locate the same file across multiple hosts. Tools that simply compute hashes exist, and services or imaging tools serve other purposes, but the process described—producing a hash to identify and track a file—is file fingerprinting.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy