Public Entropy Source

Definition ∞ A public entropy source is a publicly accessible origin of true randomness. This resource generates unpredictable data streams derived from physical phenomena, such as atmospheric noise or quantum events, which are then made available for public use. Its purpose is to provide high-quality, verifiable randomness that cannot be predicted or manipulated by any single entity. Such sources are crucial for cryptographic applications and fair protocol execution.
Context ∞ Public entropy sources are vital for various cryptographic applications in the digital asset space, including generating secure keys, creating unpredictable blockchain hashes, and ensuring fairness in decentralized lotteries. The integrity and accessibility of these sources are paramount for maintaining trust in decentralized systems. Ongoing efforts focus on developing and verifying robust, transparent public entropy mechanisms to counter potential manipulation.