Affine linear and D4 symmetric lattice equations : symmetry analysis and reductions

We consider lattice equations on ${\text{mathds}Z}^2$ which are autonomous, affine linear and possess the symmetries of the square. Some basic properties of equations of this type are derived, as well as a sufficient linearization condition and a conservation law. A systematic analysis of the Lie point and the generalized three- and five-point symmetries is presented. It leads to the generic form of the symmetry generators of all the equations in this class, which satisfy a certain non-degeneracy condition. Finally, symmetry reductions of certain lattice equations to discrete analogues of the Painlev'e equations are considered.