Cryptographic salt is a random value added to data before it undergoes a hashing process. Its primary purpose is to enhance security, particularly for storing sensitive information like passwords. When a password is hashed with salt, the resulting hash is unique even if two users have the same password. This ensures that attackers cannot easily use pre-computed tables, known as rainbow tables, to crack hashed passwords. By incorporating salt, each password hash becomes distinct, making it much more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access.Salts are typically created using secure random number generators. They are stored alongside the hashed password, allowing for verification during the login process. Since the salt is unique to each user, even if two users share a password, their stored hashes will differ, further complicating any attempts at unauthorized access.Overall, the use of cryptographic salt is a fundamental practice in enhancing security, protecting user data, and thwarting potential attacks on hashed information.