Importance

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Abstract

A system and method for generating random numbers utilizing a shared or distributed source of entropy is disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention allows networked computers to generate and share entropy in proportion to the need for random numbers utilized to initialize the internal state of random number generators residing on the computers. A shared session key generated during communications between a first and second computer is appended to the current internal state of the random number generators residing on the computers to create a bit string. The bit string is then mixed or hashed using a one-way 'hash' function such as message digest function to produce a mixed bit string. At least a portion of the mixed bit string is then used to reinitialize the internal state of the random number generators residing on the computers. Since the initial state of the random number generators residing on the computers will be different, the values used to reinitialize the internal state of the generators will be different. In the case of a computer network, the internal state of each host computer's random number will thus ultimately be dependent upon on the internal state of every other computer that the host has communicated with and the order in which the communications took place.

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First Claim