A dynamic model of viruses with the effect of removable media on a computer network with heterogeneous immunity

Abstract

AbstractIn this paper, we build a mathematical model to study the impact of external removable devices on a network with weakly- and strongly-protected computers. The model describes the dynamics between weak, strong, infected computers and susceptible, infected removable media. Analytical investigations of the model produce two equilibrium points: virus-free and endemic. Moreover, we investigate the local and global stability of both equilibria. The existence and stability conditions of the equilibrium points depend primarily on the basic reproduction number ($R_{0}$R0) of the model. Furthermore, we perform numerical simulations to substantiate the analytical results. Also, a sensitivity analysis is carried out to examine the critical parameters that lead to strategies to control the dissipation of viruses.