Propagation of computer virus both across the Internet and external computers: A complex-network approach

Based on the assumption that external computers (particularly, infected external computers) are connected to the Internet, and by considering the influence of the Internet topology on computer virus spreading, this paper establishes a novel computer virus propagation model with a complex-network approach. This model possesses a unique (viral) equilibrium which is globally attractive. Some numerical simulations are also given to illustrate this result. Further study shows that the computers with higher node degrees are more susceptible to infection than those with lower node degrees. In this regard, some appropriate protective measures are suggested.