Whether you’re a mathematical prodigy or simply a high school graduate, chances are you’ve heard of several different numbers throughout your lifetime. From complex and real to algebraic and rational, all types of numbers have their own separate purpose and identity. However, it’s random numbers which are the most likely to affect your day to day life. Few phrases are as self-explanatory as the “random number generator” (or RNG, as it is known throughout the tech industry) and they are the tools which are designed to generate sequences which do not have any discernible pattern. Random numbers and consequently RNGs are used more commonly than you think but go about their business quietly in the background while we reap the benefits. So, just what are they used for?
Cyber Security
Recent technological advances and an increase in the use of mobile devices means that cybersecurity is more important than ever before. “Good” numbers are fundamental to any security system in order to ensure that cracking said system is as difficult as possible. With hackers becoming more and more innovative by the day, RNGs are a vital part of many different security systems. Without going too far down the rabbit hole, “bad” numbers are much easier to crack, and this leads to cyber attacks. For those who are more computer literate when it comes to coding, there are numerous examples and explanations of how someone can hack a vulnerable random number generator. Essentially, if someone can guess your unique ID for an internet session then they can impersonate you online wherever they please.
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Online Roulette
Online casino games have been growing in popularity in recent years, and roulette is a fine example of just how important RNGs can be. For instance, in order to play roulette on Aspers.com, it’s important to know that the results of the spin of the roulette wheel are totally random and that you’re getting a fair shake. In European roulette, for example, the numbers range from 0 to 36 and an RNG mimics the randomness of playing in a brick and mortar casino. Of course, live casino games don’t require RNGs – live roulette uses a physical wheel as live casino games are streamed through HD webcams. However, for standard online casino games, RNGs are an integral part of ensuring that such games are fair and random and part of how they receive third-party certification of their fairness.
Final Thoughts on RNGs
The concept of the RNG and the difference between true random number generation and pseudo-random generation can get pretty deep. Some experts argue that random numbers in software can never be truly random – true randomness is a lack of any sort of predictability or pattern. At present, all we we can do is simulate randomness to the best of computers’ ability – and for now, there are enough numbers out there to make things difficult enough and random enough for what we need.
