.md5 File Extension
File Type MD5 Checksum File
| Developer | N/A |
| Category | Miscellaneous Files |
| File Format | N/A |
MD5 file type
An MD5 file is a checksum file used to verify the integrity of a disc, disk image, or a downloaded file. It stores a checksum, which is a value created from an algorithm based on the number of bits in the file. MD5 files are sometimes generated when a disk image is created.
More Information
MD5 files function similarly to human fingerprints. They are unique and are used to verify identity. This is especially important for security reasons in case a file is changed for malicious purposes or corrupted from a disk error or incomplete file transfer.
NOTE: Standard MD5 checksums are 32 characters long, which requires 16 bytes or 128 bits.