Coping with physical attacks on random network structures

Communication networks are vulnerable to natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods, as well as to physical attacks, such as an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) attack. Such real-world events happen at specific geographical locations and disrupt specific parts of the network. Therefore, the geographical layout of the network determines the impact of such events on the network´s connectivity. Recent works focused on assessing the vulnerability of a deterministic (geographical) network to such events. Here, we focus on assessing the vulnerability of (geographical) random networks to such disasters and identifying the most vulnerable parts of a network where only partial (probabilistic) information about its geographical layout is given. We consider stochastic models in which nodes and links are probabilistically distributed geographically on a plane, and model the disaster event as a circular cut that destroys any node or link within or intersecting the circle. We develop algorithms for assessing the damage of such attacks and determining which attack locations have the most disruptive impact on the network. Our novel approach allows identifying locations which require additional protection efforts (e.g., equipment shielding). Overall, the paper demonstrates that using stochastic modeling and geometric probability techniques can significantly contribute to our understanding of network survivability and resilience.