mt_randDescriptionCalling this function without any arguments produces a random number between zero and the system's maximum Mersenne Twister value. The maximum value can be found by calling mt_getrandmax() . Passing both the min and max arguments generates a number within the provided range. Whereas rand() uses the standard libc rand() function, which can be slow and doesn't have a set of known characteristics, mt_rand() uses the Mersenne Twister algorithm to generate a random number that's more suitable for cryptography because of its known characteristics. This function can also be up to four times faster than the standard rand() . Before using this function, it's advisable to seed the generator using mt_srand() .
PHP Functions Essential Reference. Copyright © 2002 by New Riders Publishing
(Authors: Zak Greant, Graeme Merrall, Torben Wilson, Brett Michlitsch).
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