SHA1SUM, or Secure Hash Algorithm 1, is a cryptographic hash function designed by the National Security Agency (NSA) and published in 1995. It is widely used to verify the integrity of files and data, as it generates a unique and irreversible 160-bit fingerprint for any given input.
Checking SHA1SUM involves comparing the generated hash with a known or expected value. This is commonly used to ensure that a file has not been altered or corrupted during transmission or storage. It finds applications in software distribution, digital signatures, and blockchain technology.