A random number generator (RNG) is a physical or computational device that is designed to create a sequence of numbers that don't follow a set pattern e.g. Distribute randomly. RNGs are typically used for slot machines in casinos, they are designed with a microprocessor built in, which generates numbers to correspond with the symbols on that. A Random Number Generator is simply a program designed to generate a random sequence of numbers. These then correspond to the online casino's roulette wheel, card decks, dice, slots reels, or any other application in games of chance.

A Random Number Generator (RNG) is a computer programme that releases results seemingly at random. There are different types of RNG’s. Casinos use Pseudo Random Number Generators, these are unique in that they do not need any external numbers or data to produce an output, all they require is an algorithm and seed number. Algorithms are fixed which means RNG’s are not truly random, and as there are a finite number of known algorithms, they can be hacked.

How Do Casinos Use RNGs?

RNGs are used for virtual games where there is no dealer online or offline. For slots, casinos assign a value to each of the symbols on a reel. In a 5-reel slot machine where each reel has 12 symbols. The RNG creates a value of 1-12 for each of the five reels. The player wins when the five ‘random’ symbols make a winning combination.

Online random number generator

Can You Cheat RNGs?

It is possible to cheat RNGs, though most people are incapable of doing so. Most casinos know there is more money to be made in the long term by playing fair. In addition, all casino software has to be tested by third party companies. Yet some company employees have been known to meddle with a RNG system for their own advantage. In 2008 it was discovered that BLR Software had rigged their games to increase the house edge at World Wide Wagering, an online company.

What Steps Are Taken to Ensure Random Number Generators Are Fair?

All regulated, licensed casinos have software that has been tested by an independent third party. These third parties offer a full range of testing and consulting to both online and brick and mortar casinos and gambling companies. This includes RNG evaluations, game and mathematics evaluations, ongoing RNG or game payout verification and reporting live dealer, sports-book or betting exchange evaluations, poker system audits and full security audits. All RNGs that pass are certified as fair, which means they are random.

The independent checks ensure that games are not influenced by variables such as the number of credits in play, size of the potential payout, VIP cards, and more. The checks also confirm that the machines meet the minimum payout percentages established by the areas authorities and gaming commissions, where rules can differ.

No change can be made to an individual machine, without an extensive process. If a casino in Las Vegas wants to make a change, they first have to notify the state, use state-approved chips that have a paper trail and then have inspectors randomly check the machines for compliance to ensure that games are fair and stay fair.

Online casino players often complain about games being rigged. Their reaction is understandable as it’s hard to stay calm in the face of long losing streak. But knowing how everything works can give you some relieve and certain degree of trust in what’s going on after you press Play button.

Number Generator Random

The heart of each online casino game is RNG (random number generator), or PRNG (pseudo random number generator) to be precise. PRNG is based on certain math formulas that produce random results. These results are then translated to their respective slot symbols so that we can see nice pictures instead of bare numbers.

PRNG ensures fairness for players and casinos. It’s important to note that operators are users themselves. Game providers don’t allow them to their game files and settings. They just give them the opportunity to host games on their sites and accept wagers. While all the processes are performed on developer’s servers.

Can You Hack PRNG?

In theory there’s such possibility. But it would be extremely difficult to succeed, because methods used to generate numbers are far from primitive. Developers definitely don’t want anyone to know their algorithms and do everything possible to eliminate any threat of hacking.

Online Random Number Generator Bingo

There is evidence of at least one case when player figured out how exactly PRNG algorithm worked and used this knowledge to collect as many winnings as was necessary. Russian known as Alex bought Mark VI slot machine by Aristocrat and had plenty of time to examine it. After finding out what method used to generate results, he was able to know exactly when the slot would give winning combinations. This was a relatively recent case that took place in 2011.

Pseudo Random Number Generator

By default, people say “RNG” when referring to online casinos. But this isn’t accurate in most of the cases. Results aren’t completely random, and it would be more accurate to say pseudo random.

Random Number Generator 1 10

There are many methods of generating pseudo random numbers. Examining one of the earliest algorithm can help understand the principle of the process. It was developed in 40s by John von Neumann. Square number of the four digit seed data is used to get first random result. Then four digits from the middle of the sequence is taken and multiplied by itself. The process goes on like that until seed data is changed.

Google Random Number Generator

Random Number Generator Online Casino

For example, square number of 7839 is 61449921. This would be a result of one spin. Then you take four digits from the middle of the sequence and square it to receive 20241001 (4499*4499) – this is the result of another spin. That goes again and again.

As you can see, knowing the seed number and mathematical formula would be enough to know the results of a series of game rounds. But to make hacker’s job harder, the seed number is changed from time to time.

It’s unlikely any serious business uses John von Neumann’s method as it’s too simple and won’t provide a lot of random numbers. The sequence comes to an end too early. Suppose you get 23000000. Square number of four zeros is zero and this won’t change. As a result, you’ll indefinitely have zeros, which isn’t acceptable. Today developers use much more advanced math formulas that are far more sophisticated.

Truly Random Number Generator

This method produces truly random results. RNG incorporates hardware and that adds another layer of unpredictability. The source of seed data can be something no one would ever guess. One of the options is to measure noise of a sound card or processor temperature. These values would be used as seed numbers.

The problem is that this method is significantly more expensive and demands investment of more time and resources to set up and maintain. Moreover, it works slower. That’s why most of the times casino games are built using PRNG and the chances of hacking are still possible.

Random Number Generator 1 2

What Algorithms Game Suppliers Use?

Based on two iTechLabs reports dated 2012 and 2015, NetEnt uses Fortuna algorithm that is built on the constant change of the seed data. These seed numbers come from various external sources such as computer mouse movements, cooler noise, etc.

Free Random Number Generator

Other suppliers might use other methods. According to Wikipedia, one of the most popular algorithms is Mersenne Twister. But there are plenty of other choices.