UUID vs GUID: What's the Difference?

December 27, 2025

UUID (Universally Unique Identifier) and GUID (Globally Unique Identifier) are terms often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences.

The Technical Difference

Technically, GUID is Microsoft's implementation of the UUID standard. Both follow the same format: 8-4-4-4-12 hexadecimal characters.

UUID Versions

  • Version 1: Time-based
  • Version 4: Random (most common)
  • Version 5: Name-based with SHA-1
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