random username generator

Question

i am trying to create a random username generator.

i have looked at several random string generators, but none of them look like actual usernames.

i am wondering how i would go about creating a script like the one featured on this page: http://generator.my-addr.com/generate_usernames-free_username_generator_online_tool.php

basically takes a word from the dictionary, adds a certain number of random characters, and then adds a certain number of numbers.

my biggest problem is having it create realistic usernames.

Answer 1

Even though I don't see why you'd want to generate username, if your only concern is that they be pronounceable I would look into Markov chains, which will allow you to randomly generate pronounceable words. You could look at the following projects for examples:

• http://passkool.sourceforge.net/
• http://shorl.com/koremutake

Answer 2

If you're looking for quick PHP solution to drop in, then I'd recommend:

Mudnames

It generates fantasy style names from a set of dictionaries that you can find in the install readme. (I'd also throw a short salt in after the name, just to be sure it's unique.)