Pseudorandom Number Generator
A pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) is an algorithm that generates sequences of numbers that appear random but are determined by an initial seed value. It is widely used in computing for simulations, cryptography, gaming, and statistical sampling where true randomness is not required or practical. PRNGs produce deterministic output, meaning the same seed will always yield the same sequence, making them reproducible for testing and debugging.
Developers should learn about PRNGs when building applications that require random-like behavior, such as video games for procedural generation, simulations for modeling complex systems, or cryptographic systems for generating keys and nonces. They are essential in scenarios where performance and reproducibility are prioritized over true randomness, as PRNGs are faster and more predictable than hardware-based random number generators.