A dependability evaluation for Internet of Things incorporating redundancy aspects

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a promising networking paradigm which immerses objects (cell phones, goods, watches, sensing motes, TVs, etc.) in a worldwide connection. Despite its high degree of applicability, the IoT faces some challenges. One of the most challenging problems is its dependability (reliability and availability), since a device failure might put people in danger or result in financial loss. An alternative to mitigate these consequences is the adoption of a strategy based on spare devices. If a primary device fails, the spare device could assume its functions in a safe way. Thus, this work proposes mathematical models based on Markov Chain which is able to estimate the reliability and availability of IoT applications considering redundancy aspects. The proposal can be used in order to provide valuable data at the early planning and design phases of an IoT application.