Difference between Checksum and CRC Last Updated : 15 Jul, 2025 Comments Improve Suggest changes Like Article Like Report In Computer Network, Checksum and Cyclic Redundancy Check are error detection methods. This checksum is the calculated value of a block of data with algorithms such as addition and it is used as a simple integrity check. The sender forms the checksum and adds it to the data. When the receiver receives data, it again calculates the checksum and compares with the value received for data integrity. CRC utilizes polynomial division to create a stronger checking value, which is more sensitive to various errors in bursts. CRC adds the remainder from the division to the data; in return, the remainder helps detect alterations in transmission. Both techniques prove to be very vital in ensuring data reliability while at communication protocols, transferring files, and storing.In this article we will see difference between Checksum and CRC.What is Checksum? A Checksum is a simple method of error detection used to verify the integrity of data. It works by breaking the data into smaller chunks, adding up their binary or numeric values, and storing that sum-the "checksum"-along with the data. When the data is sent out or retrieved, the receiving system performs the identical sum calculation. If the checksum received during transmission matches the new checksum, then it is assumed that the data is correct; otherwise, it is an error.Example – If the data unit to be transmitted is 10101001 00111001, the following procedure is used at Sender site and Receiver site.Sender Site: 10101001 subunit 1 00111001 subunit 2 11100010 sum (using 1s complement) 00011101 checksum (complement of sum)Data transmitted to Receiver is: Receiver Site : 10101001 subunit 1 00111001 subunit 2 00011101 checksum 11111111 sum 00000000 sum's complement Result is zero, it means no error.Advantages of ChecksumSimple: Checksum is very easy to implement and consumes very less computational power.Fast Execution: It contains simple addition so execution of the checksum operation takes place rapidly.Usage in Simple Systems: Due to its simplicity, it is applied for error detection in basic protocols such as IPv4.Disadvantages of ChecksumLow Precision: Checksum fails in the case of some error types where errors cancel each other out. For example, flipping two bits can result in the same sum.Limited Error Detection: This cannot detect intricate or multi-bit errors, making it less reliable for large data blocks or for applications that require high integrity.What is CRC? CRC or Cyclic Redundancy Check is a more sophisticated than a checksum. It works on the principle that divide the data, treated as a polynomial, by a specified polynomial leaving a remainder called the CRC code. The CRC code is attached to the data. On the receiving end, the same polynomial division is done; if the remainder matches the CRC code then this data is valid.It contains Polynomial Generator on both sender and receiver side. The polynomial generator is of the type x3+x2+x+1. Example: (No error in transmission)Data word to be sent - 100100 Key - 1101 [ Or generator polynomial x3 + x2 + 1] Sender Side: Therefore, the remainder is 001 and hence the encoded data sent is 100100001. Receiver Side: Code word received at the receiver side 100100001 Therefore, the remainder is all zeros. Hence, the data received has no error.Advantages of CRCHigher Sensitivity: CRC is much more sensitive and can identify more complex error patterns, including burst errors. It is much more reliable for a large amount of data.Used in Crucial Systems: CRC is used more frequently in data communication protocols (such as Ethernet, USB) and storage devices because of its ability.Multiple cases of errors: It can identify multiple patterns of error types, such as multiple bit errors and patterns that checksums cannot detect.Disadvantages of CRCComplexity: CRC requires more computational resources to implement and execute than a simple checksum.Impact on Performance: The division used in the CRC algorithm can cause an overhead in data processing in some real-time systems.Difference between Checksum and CRC FeatureChecksumCyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)Definition A simple error-detection method that sums up data chunks and verifies the integrity based on the sum.A more advanced error-detection method using polynomial division to calculate a remainder for error checkingError Detection MethodSimple addition of data valuesPolynomial division of data treated as a binary number or polynomialAccuracyLow accuracy; may miss some errors, especially if they cancel each other outHigh accuracy; detects most error patterns, including burst and multiple-bit errorsComplexitySimple to compute, requires minimal resourcesMore complex; involves mathematical operations (polynomial division)Error Detection CapabilityDetects simple, single-bit errorsDetects complex errors, including burst errors and multiple-bit errorsComputation TimeFaster to compute due to simplicitySlower to compute due to the more complex division operationOverheadMinimal (small data overhead)Slightly higher overhead due to additional CRC codeUse CasesUsed in simple protocols (e.g., IPv4, UDP)Used in critical systems (e.g., Ethernet, USB, hard drives, wireless communication)ReliabilityLess reliable, especially for larger datasets or complex errorsHighly reliable for detecting a wide range of errorsPerformance ImpactLow, ideal for simple systems with limited resourcesHigher, especially in real-time systems with large data streamsConclusionThe Checksum and CRC used for error detection in data transmission or storage are different in complexity and accuracy. Checksum is less complex and faster, with a place for low-level error checking in less critical systems, whereas CRC offers more accuracy and is suitable for complex data communication systems where integrity is paramount. Comment More infoAdvertise with us Next Article Basics of Computer Networking I itskawal2000 Follow Improve Article Tags : Computer Networks Difference Between Similar Reads Computer Network Tutorial A Computer Network is a system where two or more devices are linked together to share data, resources and information. These networks can range from simple setups, like connecting two devices in your home, to massive global systems, like the Internet. Below are some uses of computer networksSharing 6 min read Computer Network BasicsBasics of Computer NetworkingA computer network is a collection of interconnected devices that share resources and information. These devices can include computers, servers, printers, and other hardware. 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