Gstrhash

Gstrhash is a term that appears in software projects as the name of a string-hashing routine. It is not a standardized algorithm, and there is no single canonical implementation associated with the term. In practice, gstrhash denotes a function that maps a string to an integer hash value, typically to support data structures such as hash tables, caches, or deduplication processes.

Implementations of gstrhash vary widely. The most common approach is a non-cryptographic hash designed for speed and uniform distribution, using techniques such as a polynomial rolling hash, FNV-1a, MurmurHash, or a similar family. The function may produce 32-bit or 64-bit results, and the exact formulation depends on the language, performance goals, and collision tolerance required by the project. Options commonly seen alongside gstrhash include handling of case sensitivity, Unicode normalization, and behavior with null or empty strings.

Characteristics and considerations. A gstrhash function is typically deterministic and designed for efficiency rather than security. Because hash collisions are possible, it is important to manage them appropriately in hash tables or caches, for example by using chaining or open addressing. When cryptographic security is required, a non-cryptographic gstrhash should not be used; instead, a cryptographic hash function such as SHA-256 or BLAKE2 should be employed.

Context and usage. The name gstrhash often reflects a practical shorthand for “generic string hash” or similar, and it can appear in codebases across languages like C, C++, or scripting languages. Because it is not tied to a single standard, developers should consult the specific project’s documentation to understand the exact behavior and guarantees of its gstrhash implementation.

See also: hash function, string hashing, hash table, FNV-1a, MurmurHash, polynomial rolling hash.