Large but rare cascades triggered by small initial shocks are present in most of the infrastructure networks. Here we present a simple model for cascading failures based on the dynamical redistribution of the flow on the network. We show that the breakdown of a single node is sufficient to collapse the efficiency of the entire system if the node is among the ones with largest load. This is particularly important for real-world networks with a highly hetereogeneous distribution of loads as the Internet and electrical power grids.
Following these findings, Crucitti et al. in their work REF introduced a model which depicts that attack on a single node is sufficient to destroy the efficiency of the entire network.
Model for cascading failures in complex networks.
Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics
Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics
Medicine Physics