A model for fault-tolerant computer systems

Abstract

Reliability is an important consideration in the design of computer systems. This is a result of the increasing complexity of computer systems and of the greater reliance placed on their continuous and correct operation. In this paper we describe a model which can be used for the analysis and design of fault-tolerant computer systems [1]. Techniques for the achievement of fault tolerance usually consist of the following activities [2],[3]: • The detection of faults in the system. • Confining the effects of faults in the system. • Recovering from the effects of faults. These activities all rely on a knowledge of the failure modes of the system. The model described in this paper provides a systematic way of progressing from the specification of a system to its failure modes. As a first step in the formulation of the model, we will take a look at the structure of a typical computer system.