An apparatus and method for generating pseudo-random cryptographic keys in
a cryptographic communications system, whereby, given a common set of
initializing configuration data, the pseudo-random cryptographic keys can
be duplicatively generated by various independent pseudo-random key
generators of the cryptographic communications system. In accordance with
the preferred embodiment of the present invention, users of the
communications system can each possess an independent pseudo-random key
generator to securely communicate with other users also holding
independent pseudo-random key generator that share the same
initialization configuration data, no matter where the other users are
located or whether the users are connected via wire or wireless
communication network. The present invention facilitates secure
communication without the need to transport decryption keys in advanced,
thereby reducing the risk of the secure communication becoming
compromised via interception of decryption keys.