A path-based approach for analyzing reliability of networks with dependent failures and multimode components

摘要

An improved reliability approximation method is presented which reduces the number of states to be considered by exploiting the path structure of the network. The method does not impose restriction on the reliability criterion; criteria more general than those based on connectivity can be used. The reduction of the number of states is usually substantial, sometimes dramatic. The approach is applicable for all communication networks. Furthermore, very general reliability criteria can be used.