Random Networks with given Rich-club Coefficient

In complex networks it is common to model a network or generate a surrogate network based on the conservation of the network’s degree distribution. We provide an alternative network model based on the conservation of connection density within a set of nodes. This density is measure by the rich–club coefficient. We present a method to generate surrogates networks with a given rich–club coefficient. We show that by choosing a suitable local linking term, the generated random networks can reproduce the degree distribution and the mixing pattern of real networks. The method is easy to implement and produces good models of real networks.