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When handling user passwords in PHP, security has always been one of the main concerns for developers. Traditionally, developers might directly use md5
1. As computing power grows, hashing algorithms once considered secure may become vulnerable. password_needs_rehash can detect whether an algorithm needs upgrading and ensure that passwords are stored with stronger algorithms in time.
2. Upgrading computational cost: Hashing functions usually allow setting a “cost,” which controls computational complexity. The higher the cost, the harder it is to crack. With password_needs_rehash, you can gradually increase password storage strength without affecting user experience.
3. No need to force users to change passwords: Traditional methods often require users to change passwords regularly. password_needs_rehash can automatically update the hash during user login, eliminating extra steps while reducing security risks.
4. Defending against outdated hash attacks: If the database stores password hashes with outdated algorithms or low-cost settings, attackers can crack them more easily once obtained. By updating hashes promptly with password_needs_rehash, the risk of password leaks is significantly reduced.
The core idea behind using password_needs_rehash is “dynamically updating the password hashing strategy.” It ensures password storage follows the latest security standards while improving protection without disrupting users, thus lowering the risk of password leaks or cracking. Combined with password_hash and password_verify, you can build a modern, reliable authentication system.
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