Random Number Generator

The systems, algorithms and practices at PartyPoker.com exist to ensure total fairness for every player on our site. To ensure fairness without exception, our random number generator (RNG) system operates at a high level of encryption and randomness.

All of our online games, in every online poker room, use the RNG system to shuffle the decks and pull the cards. A good random number generator is one that generates numbers that are:

  • Evenly distributed and not related to each other in any way
  • Unpredictable

Because the numbers the RNG generates are completely random, both the player and the online poker room are assured of complete fairness.

PartyPoker.com uses a secure, cryptographically certified RNG (SHA-1 cryptographic hash algorithm) implemented by SUN. SUN's SeedGenerator class generates the initial seed. The seed is produced by counting the number of times the VM manages to loop in a given period. The samples are translated using a permutation (s-box) and then XORed together. This process is non-linear and prevents samples from 'averaging out'.

The s-box is designed to have even statistical distribution. A number of sleeper threads are also created that add entropy to the system by keeping the scheduler busy. These are gathered in the background by a daemon thread, thus allowing the system to continue performing its different activities, which in turn add entropy to the random seed. The class also gathers miscellaneous system information, some machine dependent, some not.

This updated seed is then used for dealing cards during each card dealing round. Cards in all subsequent hands will be dealt using a seed that is completely random and that is completely unrelated to the seed used to deal the previous hands of cards, thus ensuring total randomness and complete fairness.

Proprietary tests are used to test and ensure the randomness of the RNG. The RNG has been tested extensively and certified by iTech Labs (a globally recognized gaming certification authority).

As such, we keep abreast of the latest in cryptography techniques and implement the same to give you a safe and secure gaming experience. Should you have any further questions about our random number generator, or the fairness of our games, please contact our 24/7 Customer Care team.