Communications of the ACM
Random Numbers: Hard Times Ahead For Hackers
University of Geneva researchers have developed a generator of random numbers, based on the principles of quantum physics.
Credit: Thomas Le Provost
Researchers at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) in Switzerland have developed a new random-number generator based on the principles of quantum physics.
The researchers note powerful quantum random-number generators currently are available commercially, but it is impossible for the user to independently verify the numbers generated are genuinely random. The user must trust the device to function correctly, even after years of use.
"We wanted to create a device which can be continuously tested to ensure it functions correctly at all times and thus guarantee that the random numbers generated are reliable," says UNIGE professor Nicolas Brunner.
The researchers say they achieved this by developing a self-testing quantum random-number generator, which enables users to verify in real time that the device delivers unbiased random numbers.
The team believes the technology will provide a new layer of security for passwords and cryptographic protocols.
From University of Geneva
View Full Article
Abstracts Copyright © 2017 Information Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
No entries found