Verify File Integrity

Before you install or upgrade any application, it is a good practice to verify the file integrity for all files. This topic describes the process for performing an MD5 hash comparison using PowerShell and a free utility called WinMD5.

Procedure

1. Open the file containing the correct MD5 checksum.

   

2. Start PowerShell and enter the following command:

   Get-FileHash <PATH> -Algorithm MD5
   

   Example:

   Alternatively, start a third-party hash tool of your choice, such as WinMD5, and browse to the file for which you must calculate the hash.

   Important: If the hash tool you are using is a freeware application, validate the legitimacy of the tool before using it.

   

3. Copy the command output and paste it underneath the file’s hash in the hash document.

   • If the two values match, then you can know with certainty that the file was properly downloaded and not modified.
   • If the two values do not match, you might have to redownload the file or check with the software provider to validate the file.