A random number generator is a hardware device or software algorithm that generates a number that is taken from a limited or unlimited distribution and outputs it. The two main types of random number generators are pseudo random number generators and true random number generators.
Pseudo Random Number Generators
Random number generators are typically software, pseudo random number generators. Their outputs are not truly random numbers. Instead they rely on algorithms to mimic the selection of a value to approximate true randomness. Pseudo random number generators work with the user setting the distribution, or scope from which the random number is selected (e.g. lowest to highest), and the number is instantly presented.
The outputted values from a pseudo random number are adequate for use in most applications but they should not always be relied on for secure cryptographic implementations. For such uses, a cryptographically secure pseudo random number generator is called for.
True Random Number Generators
A true random number generator — a hardware random number generator (HRNG) or true random number generator (TRNG) — is cryptographically secure and takes into account physical attributes such as atmospheric or thermal conditions. Such tools may also take into account measurement biases. They may also utilize physical coin flipping and dice rolling processes. A TRNG or HRNG is useful for creating seed tokens.
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“To assure a high degree of arbitrariness in games or even non-mission-critical security, you can use a random number generator to come up with different values since these software tools greatly increase the choice while cutting out most human biases.”
