Networks of computer systems, distribution systems, and telecommunication systems play an increasingly important role in our lives. This book is concerned with analysing and assessing the reliability of such networks whose components are prone to possible failure. The field of network reliability has expanded rapidly to provide various mathematical models and computational procedures. In this book the emphasis is on identifying a number of algebraic structures that serve to unify the study of networks, and to suggest new techniques and procedures for analysing the probabilistic behaviour of networks. Consequently, amongst the topics covered are pseudopolynomial algorithms, lattice structures, spaces of polynomials, reliability covering problems, and stochastic path problems. The result is a book which will be an invaluable account of the subject for all mathematicians, computer scientists, reliability engineers, and operations researchers whose work touches on network reliability.
Reviews
'Theoretical explanations in this book are very well-written, and even the basic notions of partial orders and graph theory are introduced ... this concise monograph will be very useful to researchers and graduate students in applied probability, computer science, and operations research, and as well to engineers faced with network reliability problems.' J. Kamburowski, Zentralblatt fur Mathematik und ihre Grenzgebiete, Band 72, 9/92
'The book is very readable.' D.H. Smith, London Mathematical Society
'Inexpensive booklets like these are worht their weight in gold. One can quickly acquire an overview of the subject and despite the multitude of aspects, it is presented in a clear manner. Recommended.' Mededelingen van het wiskundig genootschap, nr.8 - november 1993



Book Information
ISBN 9780198533863
Author Douglas R. Shier
Format Hardback
Page Count 154
Imprint Clarendon Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 382g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 162mm * 15mm