Quantum mechanics tells us that the universe, which appears highly predictable, is actually based on unpredictability and probability. This concept of randomness is also crucial in the metaverse, particularly in games, security systems, decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) governance, and nonfungible token (NFT) generation.
The pivotal role of random numbers
Random numbers play a significant role in various applications. In games, they ensure that outcomes are not repetitive, maintaining freshness and excitement. Security systems rely on random numbers to prevent easily guessable authentication codes. Systems that require variety and diversity cannot function effectively without access to random values.
However, many systems use Pseudo Random Number Generators (PRNGs), which produce outputs based on fixed equations rather than true randomness. While this may be suitable for some applications, the quality of PRNGs can vary significantly. Some PRNGs exhibit repetition and predictability, while others are susceptible to external influences and tampering. Furthermore, lacking the ability to verify the intended value of a number opens the door to manipulation and erodes trust in blockchain systems.
The quest for true randomness
While centralized systems may offer randomness, they also have vulnerabilities that can be exploited. True randomness often comes at a higher cost compared to using a PRNG. Additionally, centralization creates a single point of failure and can result in system-wide downtime in case of issues or breaches.
Decentralization and the imperative of reliability
Using an RNG that doesn’t meet the specific needs of an application can have disastrous consequences, as demonstrated by the security breach in Axie Infinity. To ensure reliability, an RNG should possess qualities such as unpredictability, tamper resistance, verifiability, decentralization, and continuous availability.
When selecting an RNG, consider the following:
- Does it provide sufficient randomness?
- Can the outputs be verified?
- Is it secure against tampering?
- Is it decentralized to avoid single point failures?
As blockchain developers strive to expand their applications and engage more users, it is crucial to prioritize the best possible support and solutions for their RNG needs.
This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Coinpostman.
