Computer systems, and in particular, networks of computers, are becoming so complex that we are fast losing the ability to analyse and understand them in any detail. Developing solutions to solve the problems that we are encountering is becoming an increasingly difficult task. As the complexity of our systems approaches that of biological systems, it is only natural that we turn to biology for inspiration, for biological systems can provide a vast fund of knowledge developed over aeons of evolutionary experimentation. The immune system is a particularly sophisticated biological system, and one that we hope will provide us with inspiration for solving hard computer science problems, such as computer security.

An Overview of the Immune System. © 1997 Steven A Hofmeyr