What type of algorithm is typically used for hashing data?

Hashing data typically involves the use of one-way algorithms, which are specifically designed to take an input (or 'message') and produce a fixed-size string of bytes that is unique to that input. The crucial aspect of a one-way algorithm is that it is computationally difficult to reverse the process—to derive the original data from the hash.

This characteristic makes one-way algorithms suitable for functions like data integrity verification, password storage, and digital signatures, where the original data needs to remain confidential or irretrievable. In hashing, any small change in the input results in a vastly different hash output, which further enhances the reliability and security of the hashed data.

The other types of algorithms mentioned do not align with the characteristics of how hashing functions operate. Symmetric and asymmetric key algorithms are typically used for encryption and decryption processes, where the original data is a crucial component that must be recoverable, unlike with hashing. Public key algorithms, which involve one key for encryption and another for decryption, also do not share the properties inherent to hashing functions. Thus, one-way algorithms are the standard for hashing because they prioritize security and non-reversibility.