Computer Design and Control of Probabilistic Communication Networks

A probabilistic communication network is one in which the nodes and links are subject to random failure (or destruction). For a class of such probabilistic networks-in which user traffic demands are converted and stated in terms of required number of circuits or trunks between each node pair-an optimum method of design and utilization (or control) is described. A linear programming model of the communication network is formulated. The solution yields the initial link capacities and the network restoral (or control) doctrine for maximizing the network performance ratio. Estimates are made of the computational complexity as a function of network size. Both off-line and real-time computer-controlled implementations are described. Several simple numerical examples are presented to illustrate the methods employed.