GEARCHECK LABCalculate a file’s SHA-256 checksum locally and optionally compare it with a value from a trusted publisher. The file is read as bytes; selecting it does not execute its contents or upload it.
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The file stays local. A matching checksum is not a malware-safety verdict.
A SHA-256 checksum is a representation of the selected file’s bytes. MATCH means the calculated value equals the supplied expected value, ignoring hexadecimal letter case. MISMATCH means they differ; it does not identify whether the cause is corruption, a different version or an untrusted source. Without an expected value the tool displays a calculated checksum but cannot verify it against a publisher.
The expected value must come from a source you trust independently of a suspicious download. A matching hash does not establish that software is safe, licensed or suitable for your computer. This browser version reads the file into memory and limits input to 50 MiB; larger files are better checked with an appropriate local utility. Changing files or leaving the tab invalidates an unfinished calculation so a late result cannot be labelled as belonging to a different file.
No. It establishes a match with the supplied expected bytes. The trustworthiness of the publisher and expected checksum remains a separate question.
Diagnostic data is processed locally in this tab and is not intentionally sent to analytics. Network tools send only their test probes and temporary payloads to GearCheck Lab’s speed-test server. Media and device access starts only after your explicit action and any required browser permission. Downloaded results stay on your device.
Read the privacy policy and testing methodology. If something fails, report the tool URL and visible message.