Network reliability allocation method based on heuristic algorithm

As network structure is difficult to be described with series and parallel models. Those traditional reliability allocation methods cannot be used by networks directly. A new method based on heuristic algorithm was advanced to solve the k/N terminal reliability allocation problem. Like advisory group on reliability of electronic equipment (AGREE) method, the new method also concerns about component importance and complexity. The component importance was calculated by taking partial derivatives of the function that relates component reliabilities to network reliability. The component complexity depends on the parts number which it owns. It solves the problem that the network reliability cannot be allocated by AGREE method with simple series models. This new method was applied to China education and research network (CERNET) backbone. Its reliability requirement, the connection probability among 75% of nodes, was allocated. It also discussed the affection to reliability allocation if some parameters, such as iteration termination value and network reliability requirements, shift. The curve of reliability over time verifies that the allocation results can meet reliability requirement of CERNET. The case study illustrates the applicability and correctness of this new allocation method.