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    SubjectRe: [PATCH] API for true Random Number Generators to add entropy (2.6.11)

    Jivin Jeff Garzik lays it down ...
    ...
    > >If kernelspace can assist and driver _knows_ in advance that data
    > >produced is cryptographically strong, why not allow it directly
    > >access pools?
    >
    > A kernel driver cannot know in advance that the data from a hardware RNG
    > is truly random, unless the data itself is 100% validated beforehand.

    You can also say that it cannot know that data written to /dev/random
    is truly random unless it is also validated ?

    For argument you could just run "cat < /dev/hwrandom > /dev/random"
    instead of using rngd.

    If /dev/random demands a level of randomness, shouldn't it enforce it ?

    If the HW is using 2 random sources, a non-linear mixer and a FIPS140
    post processor before handing you a random number it would be nice to
    take advantage of that IMO.

    Cheers,
    Davidm

    --
    David McCullough, davidm@snapgear.com Ph:+61 7 34352815 http://www.SnapGear.com
    Custom Embedded Solutions + Security Fx:+61 7 38913630 http://www.uCdot.org
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