In configuring NSEC3, what is the random salt length specified?

In the context of NSEC3 (Next Secure version 3), the random salt length is a critical value that adds an extra layer of security to domain name system (DNS) security extensions (DNSSEC). The random salt is used to generate hashed values for DNS records, making it more resistant to attacks such as enumeration.

The random salt length specified in the NSEC3 specification is typically set to 8 bytes (or 64 bits). This length provides a suitable balance between security and efficiency. A longer salt would enhance security further but could lead to performance drawbacks in processing DNS queries. Conversely, a shorter salt might not provide adequate security against certain types of attacks.

In this case, the correct answer is 8, aligning with the established best practices and recommendations outlined in the DNSSEC documentation. This specification ensures that the NSEC3 deployment is robust enough to withstand potential threats while still functioning optimally in real-world applications.