Quantitative Risk Assessment of Computer Virus Attacks on Computer Networks

This paper discusses the various types of malicious software, particularly computer viruses, which threaten computer network dependability, including such attributes as reliability, availability, safety and security of computer systems. Quantitative risk assessment of computer virus attacks on computer networks is investigated. To this end, an analytical model to study computer virus propagation in a typical network is developed and the results are presented. The model developed in this paper theoretically supports what is commonly performed in network management, where particular network resources are to be protected or preserved under hostile conditions. Some strategic controls are discussed.