title: Is it possible to break md5 hash using genetic algorithms?
body: <p>With a knowledge of how md5 works, would it be possible to use a population based algorithm such as genetic programming to break simple passwords?</p>
  
  <p>For examples, given a md5 hash for a string that is between 5 to 10 characters, we are to try to get the string back.</p>
  
  <p>If yes, what could be</p>
  
  <ul>
  <li>A good representation for an individual of the population</li>
  <li>Selction criteria</li>
  <li>Recombination methods</li>
  </ul>
  
  <p>This is to understand the application of genetic algorithms and to know if anyone has done anything of this sort.</p>