Dependability Analysis of Information and Communication Systems

The course is given every second year, next time spring 2027. Topics are: Modelling with state diagrams (discrete state continuous time Markov chains) and stochastic Petri-nets. Modelling of systems with distribution, fault-tolerance and co-operating software objects. Pros and cons of methods with respect to problems addressed. Analytical methods for state based systems, included system times, the rate of (rarely occurring) system failures, measurement of interval availability and availability guarantees, truncation of state spaces. Simulation techniques to provoke rare events like importance sampling and splitting. Systems of systems, ICT systems as an element of the societal critical infrastructure; challenge and methods in the analysis.

The course contributes to almost all UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) since efficient communication/networking is a fundamental need for all non-local cooperation, but in particular to goal 9 Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

A. Knowledge:

1) A good understanding of the feasibility, methods and challenges in the modeling, analysis and design of dependable/reliable in information and communication technology (ICT) system, including both hardware, software and networks aspects.

2) In depth knowledge on how to deal with conditions that are specific for (highly) dependable ICT systems like rarely occurring events, decisions based on few observations and handling of large unstructured state spaces.

3) Insight in ICT systems role in critical infrastructure.

B. Skills:

1) Master the terminology and theoretical concepts in the dependability/reliability area.

2) Be able to establish models for communications technology (ICT) system by means of continuous time, discrete state space Markov models and stochastic Petri-nets (Stochastic Activity Networks).

3) Master approximate analysis techniques with truncation of large state spaces.

4) Master the approximate analytical methods to determine the distribution of short term measures like interval unavailability.

C. General competence:

1) Improved insight into the relation between application and economic aspects and the dependability of ICT systems.

2) Have an understanding of the dependability/reliability requirements of ICT systems ensuing from their role the society.

3) Ability to present, assess and discuss the research results of others.

Colloquiums/interactive lectures, where it is expected that the students have familiarised themselves with the topic beforehand. Optional exercises.