python-bcrypt is a Python wrapper of OpenBSDβs Blowfish password hashing code, as described in βA Future-Adaptable Password Schemeβ by Niels Provos and David Mazi=C3=A8res. This system hashes passwords using a version of Bruce Schneierβs Blowfish block cipher with modifications designed to raise the cost of off-line password cracking and frustrate fast hardware implementation. The computation cost of the algorithm is parametised, so it can be increased as computers get faster. The intent is to make a compromise of a password database less likely to result in an attacker gaining knowledge of the plaintext passwords (e.g. using John the Ripper).