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Random Data

Random data is a subset of variable data in which the next item generated in a data set is difficult to guess as it does not follow a predictable sequence. Random data is often used for identifiers in computer systems and for information security (passwords, HTTPS…). As a general rule, never build your own random number generator; its is very difficult to implement properly. Use an open source system that has been properly designed, implemented and tested.

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Randomness

The randomness of data is characterized by the following attributes:

  • The length of the random data
  • The process used to generate the random number
  • In the case of random strings, the set characters available for use; numbers {1, 2, 3…}, alphabetic characters {A, b, C…} and special characters {%, &, …}

Random String Generation

The following websites are useful for generating lists of random strings which can be used for identifiers: