Verify the downloaded file before you open it.
A SHA-256 checksum is a fingerprint for a file. Matching the full value helps confirm that the file you downloaded is the same release VX published.
Why the complete value matters
A checksum is useful only when you compare the entire published value. A short prefix is convenient for identification, but it is not a substitute for full verification when checking file integrity.
Step 1: copy the published checksum
Open the official VX Download Center and find the SHA-256 value for the current release. Keep that page open while you calculate the checksum of the downloaded file.
Step 2: calculate SHA-256 in Windows
Open PowerShell in the folder containing the downloaded file and run the built-in command below, replacing the example filename with the actual file name.
Get-FileHash .\VX.exe -Algorithm SHA256Windows will print a SHA-256 hash. This calculation happens locally on your computer.
Step 3: compare every character
The calculated hash should match the value published by VX exactly. Letter case does not matter, but every hexadecimal character must otherwise be identical.
If the values do not match
Do not open the file. Delete it, download the current release again from the official VX Download Center, and repeat the check. A mismatch can be caused by an incomplete download, a different release, or an altered file.