Definition ∞ Entropy estimation is the process of quantifying the randomness or unpredictability within a data source. In cryptography, high entropy is essential for generating strong, secure random numbers and keys, making them resistant to guessing or brute-force attacks. Accurate estimation confirms the quality of cryptographic primitives.
Context ∞ For blockchain security and cryptographic key generation, reliable entropy estimation is fundamental to preventing vulnerabilities. Any weakness in the randomness source can compromise digital asset security, making ongoing research into hardware random number generators and robust entropy collection methods a priority for network integrity.