Generally-speaking, there are two types of random number generators (RNGs):
Currently, there exists several Approved DRBGs, and no Approved NRBGs.
FIPS 186-2, Digital Signature Standard (DSS), defines two deterministic techniques for generating numbers. See Appendices 3.1 and 3.2 and Change Notice #1 of FIPS 186-2.
ANSI X9.31 Appendix A.2.4 specifies a technique for generating pseudorandom numbers. This is the same technique (using DES) that was specified in Appendix C of ANSI X9.17.
ANSI X9.62-1998 Annex A.4 specifies an additional algorithm derived from FIPS 186.
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-90, Recommendation for Random Number Generation Using Deterministic Random Bit Generators (Revised) , specifies four DRBGs and briefly discusses entropy sources and methods for creating an RNG from an entropy source and an Approved DRBG.
There are no Approved NRBGs.
Back to TopTesting requirements and validation lists are available from the Cryptographic Algorithm Validation Program (CAVP).
Back to TopSP 800-22 provides a set of statistical tests for testing and evaluating deterministic and non-deterministic random number generators.
NIST has published an ITL Bulletin that summarizes SP 800-22.
Back to TopNIST maintains a general web page on Random Number Generation and Testing that contains links to documentation and code.
Back to TopA workshop on random number generation was held from July 19-22, 2004 at NIST. The following information is available for interested parties:
The permission to post the draft of X9.82 has expired; therefore, it is no longer available on this website. Comments received can be viewed here. Additional comments on the ANSI X9.82 and comments in general may be sent to ebarker@nist.gov or John.Kelsey@nist.gov.