Memristor based ring oscillators true random number generator with different window functions for applications in cryptography

Abstract

Cryptographic applications require numbers that are random and pseudorandom. Keys must be produced in a random manner in order to be used in common cryptosystems. Random or pseudorandom inputs at different terminals are also required in a lot of cryptographic protocols. For example, producing digital signatures using supporting quantities or in verification procedures that requires generating challenges. Random number generation is an important part of cryptography because there are flaws in random number generation that can be taken advantage by attackers that compromised encryption systems that are algorithmically secure. True random number generators (TRNGs) are the best in producing random numbers. This paper presents a True Random Number Generator that uses memristor based ring oscillators in the design. The designs are implemented in 0.18 µm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology using LT SPICE IV. Different window functions for the memristor model was applied to the TRNG and compared. Statistical tests results of the output random numbers produced showed that the proposed TRNG design can produce random output regardless of the window function.