Upgrade Strategies

Hash Algorithm Migration

Planning

• Assess current system security
• Choose new hash algorithm
• Develop migration strategy
• Test migration process

Implementation

1. Add new algorithm support
2. Gradually rehash existing values
3. Update verification logic
4. Remove old algorithm support

Code Example

def verify_and_upgrade_hash(stored_hash, password, old_algo, new_algo):
    if verify_hash(stored_hash, password, old_algo):
        new_hash = generate_hash(password, new_algo)
        update_stored_hash(new_hash)
        return True
    return False

Migration Monitoring

• Track migration progress
• Monitor system performance
• Handle migration failures
• Document changes

Security Considerations

During Migration

• Maintain backward compatibility
• Handle errors gracefully
• Log security events
• Monitor for attacks

Post-Migration

• Verify complete migration
• Update documentation
• Remove old algorithm support
• Security audit

Best Practices Checklist

1. [ ] Use appropriate hash function for use case
2. [ ] Implement secure salt generation
3. [ ] Consider using pepper for additional security
4. [ ] Store hashes securely
5. [ ] Plan for algorithm upgrades
6. [ ] Regular security audits
7. [ ] Monitor for security issues
8. [ ] Document all procedures
9. [ ] Train team members
10. [ ] Test recovery procedures