Is using predictable patterns like a 'slot machine' outcome for passwords actually secure?

password securityentropypassphraseencryption

Registration:
24.10.2023
Messages: 668

ByteMaster Topic author

02.01.2025 04:33

I've been reading a lot about password complexity, and I keep running into this concept where some people suggest using a random, almost 'slot machine' generated sequence for maximum entropy. My question is, how secure is a password that is purely random and unpredictable, versus one that is long and uses a memorable passphrase? I'm worried that even if it's random, if the generation method is known, it could be cracked. Has anyone tested the actual security strength of truly random, non-dictionary passwords against modern brute-force attacks? Any advice on best practices would be greatly appreciated.

15 Answers

08.08.2022
Posts: 565

Raider_Scum

05.01.2025 11:39

The core concept is entropy. Truly random passwords maximize entropy, which is great. However, length is often a better predictor of strength than pure randomness if the character set is small.

10.08.2021
Posts: 1169

Teacher_C

06.01.2025 08:49

I think people overcomplicate this. A long, memorable passphrase (like a sentence) is often more secure and sustainable than a 32-character random string that you can't remember. Think about passphrases like 'MyDogLovesBlueBones!'.

21.03.2021
Posts: 102

EclipseX

06.02.2025 19:34

If the generation method is known, it's a vulnerability, regardless of how random the output is. This is a key point. You are worried about dictionary attacks, but you should also worry about the algorithm itself. Use a reputable, audited password manager that handles the randomness internally.

14.10.2023
Posts: 461

MidnightRider

21.04.2025 20:14

Short. Length matters most.

27.01.2025
Posts: 15

SteamPunk in response

02.05.2025 01:36

Replying to the random vs. passphrase debate: While pure randomness is theoretically stronger, human fallibility means people tend to reuse or write down random passwords. Passphrases encourage unique, complex memory aids, which is a better behavioral safeguard.

30.01.2025
Posts: 1348

PacketSniffer

20.05.2025 23:37

Have you considered rate limiting? Even the strongest password fails if the service doesn't implement proper account lockout policies. That's the weakest link, not the password itself.

16.12.2024
Posts: 668

God_C

19.06.2025 18:30

The security strength of a truly random password depends entirely on the character set size and the length. For modern brute-force attacks, a 16-character mix of upper, lower, numbers, and symbols is generally considered sufficient for most consumer accounts.

26.08.2024
Posts: 852

CyberWolf in response

05.08.2025 16:28

Totally agree with the point about the generation method. If the random number generator (RNG) is predictable (like using system time as a seed), the whole system collapses. Always ensure the system uses a Cryptographically Secure Pseudo-Random Number Generator (CSPRNG).

29.02.2024
Posts: 1282

BinaryBeast

15.11.2025 10:49

Longer is always better. Aim for at least 15 characters minimum. Don't let the randomness excuse poor length.

15.03.2025
Posts: 88

Sister_C

23.11.2025 16:20

So, if I use a passphrase, and then I add a random element to it (like changing 'I love coffee' to 'I@love-coffee!23'), does that give me the best of both worlds? Is that considered a hybrid approach?

13.08.2023
Posts: 1285

Ricks_C in response

14.12.2025 03:26

Replying to the passphrase idea: Hybrid approaches are excellent. They combine the memorability and context of a passphrase with the increased entropy of random substitutions and appended numbers. It's the best practice for most users.

22.03.2025
Posts: 223

Hicks_C

06.01.2026 10:45

The biggest flaw in relying solely on randomness is the 'human element' of remembering it. If you forget it, you're forced to write it down or use a weak recovery method, negating all the entropy gains.

22.07.2024
Posts: 569

NexusPrime

17.01.2026 23:26

I think the industry needs to stop debating this and just mandate a minimum length, say 14 characters, regardless of whether it's random or a phrase. Consistency is key.

07.05.2025
Posts: 181

Uncle_C

04.03.2026 00:22

For maximum security, use a dedicated password manager. It handles the randomness, the length, and the storage securely, so you don't have to worry about the mechanics of entropy yourself.

09.12.2025
Posts: 716

OverClock in response

27.03.2026 10:33

It's not about which is better, it's about what is sustainable. A strong passphrase that you can recall is better than a perfect random string that you will inevitably write on a sticky note.

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