noun

checksum

/ˈtʃɛkˌsʌm/ · say it: CHEK·sum

a value used to verify data has not been corrupted

In more detail

1. (noun) a number calculated from the data in a file or message, used to check that the data has not been changed or damaged

2. (noun) a sum of numbers added together as a way to verify accuracy

Examples

1. The software verifies the checksum to ensure the downloaded file is complete and uncorrupted.
2. The accountant calculated a checksum of all the transactions to confirm the totals were correct.

How to use checksum

Checksum is a technical term used in computing and data transmission to detect accidental errors or corruption in digital files and messages. It works by generating a numerical value from data that is recalculated later to confirm the data remains unchanged. The term is standard in IT, software development, and networking contexts.

Common phrases

verify a checksum
calculate a checksum
checksum error
checksum value
incorrect checksum
checksum match

Synonyms

hash · verification code · control sum · digit sum

Word family

checksummed (verb, past tense) · checksumming (verb, present participle)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse checksum with encryption or assume it provides security against intentional tampering; checksums actually detect only accidental corruption, not malicious changes.

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