[Android Software/Hacking General [Developers Only]] xCALLmeKING:
What is an MD5sum?

An MD5sum is a commonly used hash value that is created to verify the integrity of files. Here at XDA-developers, MD5sum values are provided by developers to allow users to verify that a file download is not corrupt or been altered.

This is a security feature that XDA users are provided with to verify the integrity of downloaded files for personal use.

DISCLAIMER!: PROCEED WITH CAUTION! I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE CAUSED TO DEVICES! ALWAYS VERIFY THAT MD5SUM VALUES MATCH PRIOR TO OPENING A DOWNLOADED FILE!!! YOU SHOULD NEVER USE/OPEN A DOWNLOADED FILE IF THE MD5SUMS DO NOT MATCH!!! USE/OPENING OF A CORRUPT FILE CAN LEAD TO DEVICE MALFUNCTIONS AND/OR FAILURES!!!

How to verify an MD5sum!

These steps are for Windows-based systems. HashTab is available for Mac OS.

There are a number of freeware programs available over the internet. Simply entering "Free MD5sum checker" on Google provides a number of results.

Step 1: Download an MD5sum checker

I recommend:

Left-click name for download link

HashTab (Proceed to "HashTab Step 2")

or

MD5 Checker (Proceed to "MD5 Checker Step 2")

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HashTab Step 2: Run HashTab Installer

Upon download completion of HashTab, you will be asked to run the HashTab Installer. Left-click on "Run"

HashTab Step 3: Doing an MD5sum Check

Upon installation completion, you can begin checking MD5sums of downloaded files.

1. Download a file. Note the download location of the file. (Note: Most XDA developers provide the MD5sum with the download link).

2. Navigate to the file's location.

3. Right-click the file. Left-click on "Properties".

4. You will notice the Properties window now has a new tab at the top labeled "File Hashes". Left-click "File Hashes".

The hash values will be computed. The user can compare the MD5sum value with the developer provided value. If the MD5sum values match, the file is safe. If MD5sum discrepancies are found, the file is to be considered corrupt and should be removed.

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MD5 Checker Step 2: Unzip the "MD5" folder

Upon download completion of MD5 Checker, navigate to the location of the "MD5" zip folder. Right-click the "MD5" zip folder. Left-click on "Extract All". Note the location of the extracted files. Optional: Open the unzipped MD5 file and simply click-n-drag the MD5 application file to your Desktop for easier access.

MD5 Checker Step 3: Doing an MD5sum Check

1. Download a file. Note the download location of the file (Note: Most XDA developers provide the MD5sum with the download link). Highlight and copy [Ctrl + C] the developer provided MD5sum value.

2. Double-click the "MD5" application file. You will be asked if you trust the unverified publisher. Left-click "Run". A new window with two open fields will display.

3. The first field is where you input the developer provided MD5sum value. Left-click "Paste". The MD5sum value you copied should display.

4. The second field is where you input the location of the downloaded file. Left-click "Browse". Navigate to the download location of the file and double-click it.

The MD5 application will compute the MD5sum value of the downloaded file. This value will be compared to the MD5sum value the developer provided. If the values match, the file is safe. If MD5sum discrepancies are found, the file is to be considered corrupt and should be removed.

ALL CREDIT GOES TO THE DEVELOPERS OF THESE MD5SUM CHECKING APPLICATIONS. THANKS FOR KEEPING OUR DEVICES SAFE.

If you have any additional tips or suggestions on MD5sum Verification please feel free to share them with the rest of the XDA community.