What is an MD5? The MD5 is a checksum (numeric representation) that is mathematically generated and uniquely idenifies an application, or collection of data.
What are they used for? MD5s are typically used to verify the correct transfer of data or to positively identify an application.
MD5s have become very popular as no two MD5s can be the same. MD5s are used as "signatures" or "fingerprints" for software applications.