Dependability modeling for computer systems

A computer system dependability analysis that ties together concepts such as reliability, maintainability and availability is discussed. Three classes of dependability measures are described: system availability, system reliability, and task completion. Using an illustrative example, measures within each class are defined, evaluated, and compared. Four types of dependability analyses are discussed: evaluation, sensitivity analysis, specification determination, and tradeoff analysis. The determination of the parameters, such as failure rates, coverage probabilities, repair rates, and reward rates is discussed.