What does the reliability of a system in parallel allow for compared to series?

In a parallel system configuration, components are arranged in such a way that if one component fails, the others can continue to function and maintain the overall system operation. This design significantly enhances the overall reliability due to the redundancy it provides. By having multiple components operating simultaneously, the likelihood of a complete system failure is reduced, as there are alternative paths for functionality.

This redundancy means that even if some components are unreliable or fail, as long as there is at least one functioning component, the system can still perform its intended purpose. In contrast, series systems are more vulnerable to single points of failure; if one component fails, the entire system may cease to operate. Therefore, the parallel arrangement allows for greater reliability and the opportunity to withstand individual component failures, which is an essential principle in reliability engineering.