A simple model for cascading failures in scale-free networks

Abstract

 Cascading failures are very disruptive events that can damage critical infrastructure such as electri- cal and telecommunication networks. They start with a single-point failure and spread fast through the networks, sometimes causing the collapse of the whole system. We study and classify three containment strategies for cas- cading failures. Additionally, we propose a simple dynamic model for cascading failures in scale-free networks considering random failures and targeted attack scenarios. Our results allowed us to mathematically describe the behavior of the process and to test three strategies to protect the network against the cascade.