Scientists from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich have developed a method for generating mathematically flawless randomness. This technology addresses vulnerabilities in digital systems and cryptography.
Modern random number generators often exhibit systematic errors. In cryptography, even the slightest deviation can create a loophole for hackers. A team led by Renato Renner and Andreas Wallraff has found a way to transform "weak" randomness into completely reliable sequences.
For their experiment, the researchers used two superconducting qubits connected by a 30-meter vacuum cable. The chips, cooled to nearly absolute zero, ensured quantum entanglement. The 30-meter distance eliminated the possibility of information exchange between particles, even at the speed of light.
The essence of the method lies in "amplifying randomness." The researchers combined imperfect input data with the results of quantum measurements and a special algorithm. The outcome was a sequence of digits whose randomness can be mathematically verified.
The quality of data protection directly depends on the reliability of the random number generator: the greater the chaos, the harder it is to breach the system.
The authors compared their result to creating atomic clocks for the data world. In the future, this technology could enhance the security of blockchains, lotteries, and quantum encryption systems.
As a reminder, in May, Australian researchers developed a nanoscale photonic chip that integrates the generation, routing, and reading of light signals into a single device.