About random string generator
Random strings are used for test data, temporary names, codes and passwords. Choose the length and characters to match the use.
Choose the character set
- Letters and digits suit codes and identifiers.
- Add symbols for passwords.
- Remove look-alike characters such as O, 0, l and 1 for codes that people type by hand.
Secure randomness
Strings come from the browser's cryptographic random source, which is suitable for security uses.
A worked example
A 16-character string from the 62 letters and digits has about 95 bits of randomness. A 6-character code from digits only has just 20 bits, which is fine for a one-time code that expires but weak for anything permanent.
Choosing options
- Remove look-alike characters such as O, 0, I and l for codes people type.
- Use more length instead of more symbol types.
- Do not use random strings as passwords unless they come from a secure source, which this tool uses.
