Towards reliability optimization of fault-tolerant software

The paper surveys and classifies probabilistic models for the reliability prediction of computer programs. The controversial discussion about the pros and cons of the software reliability modelling will be sketched. An approach to the optimization of the software reliability achieved by the resources applied (as to amount and quality of programming efforts, development and operation environment, and redundancy to achieve fault-tolerance) is given. The results will be applied to determine the structure of software to be developed. The approach will be illustrated by simple examples.