The layered index method for network reliability analysis

This paper proposed the layered index method for network reliability analysis through the study of the current network reliability research, as well as the existing problems. This paper first analyzed the required function, the stated condition, the specified period of the network reliability definition, then discussed the calculation of the application reliability based on individual application, finally proposed the methodology of reliability analysis considering the relationship among different applications. The contribution of this paper is: (i) the function, the condition, and the period in network reliability analysis were exemplified; (ii) the network reliability was analyzed based on the different applications; (iii) a parameter system for network reliability evaluation was constructed; (iv) an example of computer network was given which show the steps of using this method.