Path: | README |
Last Update: | Wed Oct 26 16:48:34 -0400 2011 |
Crypt::ISAAC README
ISAAC is a cryptographically secure PRNG for generating high quality random numbers. Detailed information about the algorithm can be found at:
burtleburtle.net/bob/rand/isaac.html
This is a pure Ruby implementation of the algorithm. It is reasonably fast for a pure Ruby implementation. On an 800Mhz PIII computer running Ruby 1.8.2, and while the machine is also serving as general desktop, the library seems to consistently generate between 15000 and 16000 random numbers per second.
Ruby uses the Mersenne Twister as its PRNG, and while this the Twister is a fast PRNG that produces highly random numbers, it is not strong for cryptographic purposes, nor is it suitable when one needs multiple independent streams of random numbers. Crypt::ISAAC is suitable for either purpose.
Requirements