A random number generator produces a random integer within a specified range (minimum to maximum, inclusive).
About this calculator
A random number generator produces a random integer within a specified range (minimum to maximum, inclusive). Random numbers are used in games, simulations, statistical sampling, cryptography, lottery draws, and anywhere you need unbiased selection.
Computers generate pseudo-random numbers using algorithms that produce sequences that appear random but are deterministically generated from a starting seed value.
Common uses
- Pick a random number for a game or contest
- Select a random sample from a dataset
- Randomly assign items in a classroom or event
- Simulate dice rolls or coin flips
Frequently asked questions
Are computer-generated random numbers truly random?
No. Computer-generated numbers are usually pseudo-random, which means they come from deterministic algorithms that appear statistically random. For most applications, such as games and sampling, that is enough. For cryptography and security, hardware random number generators are used when true randomness is needed.