Creating image hashes

You can create called image hashes to validate your images. If you execute the relevant configurations in the Beckhoff Service Tool, an image hash is created directly when an image is created. You can choose whether the image hash should be created as an MD5 hash or an SHA256 hash. When an image is restored, the image hash is then used for validation. The performance of the CPU and the data carrier dictates how long the hash calculation takes.

To create image hashes, execute the following configurations:

1. Click the Settings button and select the General tab.
2. In the Image Hash drop-down menu under Image Configuration, choose how the image hash should be provided.
3. Confirm your selection with OK.
Creating image hashes 1:
Configuration of image hashes

If you have executed the configuration described above, a hash file with the additional extension .MD5 or .SHA256 is also created when an image is created.

Creating image hashes 2:
Hash file

The complete hash file consists of the hash sum based on the algorithm used, an asterisk (*) and the relevant file name.

Creating image hashes 3:
Complete hash file

Using appropriate tools, such as PowerShell, you can compare the determined hash sum with the hash file. The hash sum is not case-sensitive, only the content is relevant.

Creating image hashes 4:
Comparison in PowerShell example tool