Reliability of computer-communication networks

Abstract

A major consideration in the original design and in the expansion of any computer-communication network is the provision of a network which will be relatively invulnerable to failures of its components. This paper considers the reliability analysis of such networks. Two indices of reliability for a network are introduced. Methods for the calculation of these indices are illustrated by carrying out a detailed reliability analysis of the ARPA Computer Network. This analysis includes sensitivity calculations to protect against inaccuracies of measured system parameters and the evaluation of possible improvements in reliability through modification of network configuration.