> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.simptel.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.simptel.com/human-identity/authentication-service/internal-authenticators/password.md).

# Password

#### 🔧 Select Algorithm: **PBKDF2**

PBKDF2 (Password-Based Key Derivation Function 2) is a key stretching algorithm that enhances password security through repeated hashing. It is a FIPS-approved method and widely supported.

***

#### 📌 Configuration Parameters

| Parameter         | Options / Range                                                                                                                | Description                                                                                                             |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Hash Function** | `SHA-256` or `SHA-512`                                                                                                         | Selects the underlying HMAC hash function.                                                                              |
| **Key Length**    | <p>Based on hash function:<br>• <code>SHA-256</code> → 32 bytes (256 bits)<br>• <code>SHA-512</code> → 64 bytes (512 bits)</p> | Length of the derived key.                                                                                              |
| **Iterations**    | `300,000` – `600,000`                                                                                                          | Number of hashing rounds to slow down brute-force attacks. Higher values improve security but increase processing time. |

***

#### ✅ Recommendations

* **Preferred Digest**: `SHA-512` for stronger security, with a `key length` of `64 bytes`.
* **Minimum Iterations**: `300,000`\ <br>


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