Hash String to 8-Digit Number in Python

General Discussions
, ,
#1

How to Hash a String into 8 Digits in Python?

Is there a way to hash a random string into an 8-digit number in Python without implementing any algorithms myself? How can I achieve this using existing Python libraries?

#2

Hey, I’ve been working with Python for years, and this is a neat trick you can do with the built-in hash() function combined with a modulo operation. Check it out!"

def hash_string_to_8_digits(input_string):
    return abs(hash(input_string)) % (10**8)

# Example usage
hashed_value = hash_string_to_8_digits("random_string")
print(hashed_value)

This method uses Python’s hash() function to create an integer hash value. The abs() ensures the value is non-negative, and % (10**8) limits it to 8 digits. It’s simple and works great for lightweight tasks where you don’t need cryptographic security.

#3

Good suggestion, Priyanka! If you need something a bit more robust or deterministic (e.g., consistent across sessions), the hashlib library is an excellent option. Here’s how to do it with SHA-256."

import hashlib

def hash_string_to_8_digits(input_string):
    hash_object = hashlib.sha256(input_string.encode())
    hex_digest = hash_object.hexdigest()
    return int(hex_digest, 16) % (10**8)

# Example usage
hashed_value = hash_string_to_8_digits("random_string")
print(hashed_value)

This method is ideal if you’re looking for something more consistent. hashlib gives you the power of SHA-256, and we convert its hex digest to an integer before applying % (10**8) to constrain it to 8 digits. A perfect approach for more critical scenarios!

#4

Great ideas, both of you! For something fast and lightweight, you might also consider using zlib’s CRC32 checksum. It’s simple and quick while still ensuring a consistent hash value. Here’s the implementation:"

import zlib

def hash_string_to_8_digits(input_string):
    return zlib.crc32(input_string.encode()) & 0xffffffff % (10**8)

# Example usage
hashed_value = hash_string_to_8_digits("random_string")
print(hashed_value)

This leverages zlib.crc32() to generate a 32-bit checksum and then applies modulo to get an 8-digit value. It’s a lightweight and efficient solution when you’re working with the python hash string use case in mind.