Quantum Random Number Generators

TL;DR

Quantum random number generators leverage quantum mechanics' inherent randomness, offering secure and reliable entropy sources for cryptography and simulations, with various technologies and protocols enhancing trustworthiness.

Contribution

This paper reviews the evolution, technologies, and protocols of quantum random number generation, including device-independent methods for trusted randomness.

Findings

Quantum systems provide a reliable source of entropy.

Multiple methods exist for quantum random number generation.

Device-independent protocols enhance trust in generated randomness.

Abstract

Random numbers are a fundamental resource in science and engineering with important applications in simulation and cryptography. The inherent randomness at the core of quantum mechanics makes quantum systems a perfect source of entropy. Quantum random number generation is one of the most mature quantum technologies with many alternative generation methods. We discuss the different technologies in quantum random number generation from the early devices based on radioactive decay to the multiple ways to use the quantum states of light to gather entropy from a quantum origin. We also discuss randomness extraction and amplification and the notable possibility of generating trusted random numbers even with untrusted hardware using device independent generation protocols.