A conceptual model for increasing utilization of dependable computer networks

Previous fault-tolerance algorithms and systems did not pay sufficient attention to the issues of utilization and cost-benefit analysis, that is, the fact that the processing capacity of backup computers is practically wasted whenever the rest of the network is functioning properly. This study develops and conceptually illustrates an algorithmic reconfiguration model that combines the mechanism of load balancing and fault tolerance in order to increase utilization of computer resources in a distributed multi-server and multi-tasking environment. The model is empirically tested in a network of computers controlling telecommunication hubs and compared to previous efforts to address this problem.