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Pseudorandom Functions

Definition

Pseudorandom functions (PRFs) are deterministic algorithms that generate outputs indistinguishable from truly random outputs, given a secret key. They are vital cryptographic primitives employed in various security applications, including message authentication codes, key derivation, and symmetric encryption. A PRF ensures that without the secret key, predicting its output for any input is computationally impractical. They form a bedrock of contemporary digital security.