EncodingBase64HashingSHA-256EncryptionAES-GCM
Three things that look similar and get confused constantly — with vastly different uses.
One input, three outputs. Tap any row to read more.
Same input. Three different jobs.
Each one, up close
The idea, the math behind it, and something live to poke at.
Then they combine.
On their own, the three above are building blocks. Snap them together and you get the protocols that actually run the internet — proving identity, agreeing on secrets, and opening a private line.
Digital Signatures
Prove who wrote it — and that no one changed it.
JSON Web Tokens
A token anyone can read but no one can forge.
Key Exchange
Agree on a secret over a line everyone can hear.
Certificates
Trust that scales — a signature vouching for a signature.
TLS Handshake
Where every piece meets to open a secure line.
And then humans show up.
The math is the easy part. The hard part is using it safely once real people pick weak passwords and databases get leaked. This is the craft of handling secrets without getting burned.
Have a go
One input through all three at once. Nothing leaves your browser.