I'm working on a project that requires generating random numbers, but I'm not sure if I should use the rand() function for cryptographic security. Is rand() sufficient for my needs, or should I look for a more secure alternative?
            
            
            
            
            
            
           
          
            7 answers
            
            
  
    
    HanbokGlamour
    Fri Jan 17 2025
   
  
    One way to initialize the random number generator in C is by using the srand() function with the current time as a seed. This is done using the line srand(time(NULL));.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    GeishaCharm
    Fri Jan 17 2025
   
  
    Security in programming is paramount, especially when dealing with cryptographic applications.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    CryptoNinja
    Fri Jan 17 2025
   
  
    Using the rand() function for generating secure numbers is not advisable. This function is designed to produce pseudo-random numbers and is not suitable for cryptographic purposes.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    Federico
    Fri Jan 17 2025
   
  
    For cryptographically secure numbers, there are specific algorithms and libraries that should be used. These algorithms ensure that the numbers generated are truly random and unpredictable.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    ShintoMystic
    Thu Jan 16 2025
   
  
    However, it's important to note that srand() should only be called once in a program to initialize the random number generator. Calling it multiple times can lead to predictable patterns in the generated numbers.