The random number generator in Linux kernels 2.6.12 up to 2.6.22 contain a broken implementation that prevents a proper manual seeding of the generator. When a Linux system boots without much operator interaction, the entropy pool may be in a predictable state. This issue only affects systems without a real time clock (RTC), harddrive activity or user input during boot time. For these system the manual seeding of the random generator is the only way to guarantee a proper entropy pool as early as possible. All other systems are not affected since the Linux kernel creates a big enough entropy pool at boot. The manual seeding is not needed on these systems and has no effect in increasing the randomness of the generator.
A patch addressing this issue has been included in build 2.6.18-8.1.6.el5
verified the patch is in and looks to already be well tested.
An advisory has been issued which should help the problem described in this bug report. This report is therefore being closed with a resolution of ERRATA. For more information on the solution and/or where to find the updated files, please follow the link below. You may reopen this bug report if the solution does not work for you. http://rhn.redhat.com/errata/RHSA-2007-0376.html