0x2BE7

0x2BE7 is a cryptographic hash function that operates on a 256-bit output, commonly used in blockchain and cryptographic applications. It is part of the SHA-3 family of hash functions, specifically derived from the Keccak algorithm, which was selected by NIST as the winner of the SHA-3 competition in 2012. The notation "0x" indicates a hexadecimal prefix, often used in computing to represent byte values in a compact form.

The hash function is widely recognized in the Ethereum ecosystem, where it is frequently employed to generate unique identifiers for smart contracts and transactions. When a transaction or contract is deployed, its address is computed using the RIPEMD-160 hash of the Keccak-256 hash of its bytecode. The resulting address is typically prefixed with "0x" to denote its hexadecimal representation. For example, a contract address might appear as 0x2BE7 followed by additional hexadecimal characters.

0x2BE7 itself is not a valid Ethereum address, as Ethereum addresses are 42-character hexadecimal strings starting with "0x." However, the notation highlights the role of Keccak-256 in generating addresses and hashes within the Ethereum network. The function ensures data integrity and security by producing a fixed-size output from variable-length input, making it resistant to collisions and suitable for cryptographic purposes.

Beyond Ethereum, Keccak-256 (and thus 0x2BE7-style hashes) is used in various other blockchain platforms and security applications due to its efficiency and cryptographic strength. It remains a fundamental component in modern digital security frameworks.