Understanding and Conducting a Vulnerability Analysis (VA)
The Amtrak rail network is a scale-free network. Scale-free networks are characterized by nodes with fewer connections to others. In this case, the nodes are the stations, which are connected to each other by railways, which are the links. The network lacks multiple connections to the same network. There are definitive routes to specific stations. In addition, the degree of connectivity or robustness varies within the network (Verma & Zhang, 2020). Some of the stations have multiple railroads leading to the destination, while others lack alternative routes. The network is also not susceptible to scale changes. The number of stations that the network has does not affect its stability. Vulnerability to targeted attacks is also evident in the rail network. However, random attacks may not affect the system adversely (Li, 2005). For instance, if one railroad suffers from any threat, manmade or natural, the functionality of other railroads is not affected. The only effect within the specific link is profound. Such an attack’s effects do not ripple through the network. However, if an attack is elaborate and targeted toward multiple nodes or stations, the network’s vulnerability increases significantly and could affect functionality negatively.
Understanding the Amtrak rail network as either small-world or scale-free is important in creating protective measures against elaborate attacks that could affect the network significantly. As highlighted, if a few stations suffer terrorist attacks, they are likely to have a negative effect on other links/railroads. This information allows key stakeholders to put in place a security apparatus that enables monitoring of the nodes (Boudi, Ghazel, & El-Miloudi, 2016). They also formulate emergency response plans following detailed risk assessments. These actions increase the security of the nodes, railroads, vehicles, goods, and passenger safety. The Amtrak rail network exhibits cascading behavior. Cascading behaviors in a network are evident if the spreading phenomenon occurs. In this case, the inability to operate one node may affect the others’ operations. While the individual stations can decide to continue operations to other stations other than the affected one independently, it is possible that the targeted attacks affect the networks’ operations significantly.
Understanding the type of network has a significant impact on its vulnerability and risk analysis. First, the information helps in reducing the network’s vulnerability. Second, it facilitates risk analyses, which involve identification of hazards and formulation of response plans in case any hazards actualize (FEMA, 1996). This step plays an important role in the neutralization of some of the vulnerabilities that the network is exposed to.
For instance, the network is vulnerable to terrorist attacks, which are usually targeted. Thus, the stakeholders install apparatus that can be used to scan luggage and passengers before they board the trains. In addition, the station managers ensure they have in place response plans that can be used to handle explosives when found. Finally, the staff members undergo training to ensure they are aware of some of the characteristics of suspicious luggage or passengers and how to handle other passengers in the event of an attack. This reduces the effects of the hazard through timely and fast response and secures the infrastructure, passengers, staff members, and goods.
In a different instance, a railroad may be exposed to flash floods during the rainy season. Railroad managers should research or seek assistance from experts on the most effective ways to evade flash floods or mitigate their effects. It may be impossible to move the railroad; however, the management can monitor the weather and the area for any warnings from the respective agencies. During such times when this vulnerability is high, it may be important to shut down the route to avoid casualties and damage to infrastructure. Such planning prepares the entire network for increased passenger volumes at times when a link is shut down due to unavoidable and uncontrolled vulnerabilities.
References
Boudi, Z., Ghazel, M., & El-Miloudi, E.-K. (2016). The New Challenges of Rail Security. Journal of Traffic and Logistics Engineering, 4(1), 56-60. doi:10.18178/jtle.4.1.56-60
FEMA. (1996). Guide for All-Hazard Emergency Operations. Retrieved from https://www.fema.gov/pdf/plan/slg101.pdf
Li, T. (2005). Are Transportation Networks Scale-free? Retrieved from https://www.erim.eur.nl/fileadmin/default/content/erim/content_area/c_research/c_smart_business_network_initiative_(sbni)/c_events/c_research_manifesto_2005/26_3_1_sbn%20ting%20li.pdf
Verma, P., & Zhang, F. (2020). Small World and Scale-Free Networks. In The Economics of Telecommunication Services (pp. 37-42). Springer.
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Question 
Based upon the Transportation Network that you have selected to study, explain whether it is a scale-free or small-world network. Your network will not be both. Start with understanding how each of these operates and how they differ.
Understanding and Conducting a Vulnerability Analysis (VA)
Based on your network, and answer the following:
-Is your network scale-free or small world?
-How do you know?
-Which principles of scale-free or small-world networks apply to your selected network and the interdependencies between and among its assets, nodes, and links?
-Is your network also a cascading network?
-Specifically, why do you believe it is or is not?
-How does understanding the difference between scale-free and small-world networks help to plan protective measures more successfully?
-How can understanding your type of network potentially impact your vulnerability and risk analyses?
-Provide at least 2 examples of how understanding your network better in this respect helps you understand potential vulnerabilities and defend against them.