Symmetric Key Algorithms

8. Pseudorandom Number Generation

Random numbers are difficult to produce in computer systems since the numbers are usually generated by an algorithm. Pseudorandom numbers are generated by using random input variables such as keystrokes, voltage, and other varying information, and if they appear to be statistically random, then they are accepted as being random. A common hardware solution using pseudorandom number generation is the Trusted Platform Module chip which securely stores cryptographic keys used by the system.