Ericsson perspectives on the past, present and future of network automation

Today, Communication Service Providers (CSPs) are at a point where they are seeing a return on their early investments in RAN automation. Thanks to networks becoming more disaggregated and open, as well as the latest advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), building autonomous networks have turned from vision into a goal within reach.

In this edition, we’ve asked Ericsson experts Thomas Kinnman , Head of AI & Automation Development, and Cecilia Cribbin , Strategic Product Manager for the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform, to share their views and personal stories on the past & present of RAN automation.

We hope you’ll enjoy their perspectives.

Thomas' Reflections on the Evolution of Network Automation

After spending more than 25 years in the telecommunications industry, I've had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of network automation firsthand. From the early days of manual configurations and static systems to the sophisticated, automated networks we see today, the journey has been nothing short of transformative.?

The constantly growing complexity in networks has always required innovative solutions. However, many of the technologies that are now becoming integral to our workflows were not available at scale two decades ago. Back then, concepts like cloud computing, big data processing, Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) were in their infancy or non-existent. Today, they are the driving forces shaping the future of our industry.?

In recent years, there has also been a significant shift towards more open and disaggregated networks. The O-RAN Alliance, for example, has made substantial progress in this area, particularly through its alignment around the Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) and rApps architecture for centralized automation. This development is a testament to the industry's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration.?

We are now at a pivotal point where we can achieve intent-based network management. The increasing programmability of networks has been a critical factor in this progress, resulting from more than two decades of efforts to create software-centric networks. This shift has laid the groundwork for more dynamic and responsive systems that can handle the growing demands of modern telecommunications.?

AI and ML are playing increasingly vital roles in network automation. These technologies could revolutionize how networks are managed, making them more efficient and adaptive. However, the integration of AI in network operations brings its own set of challenges around trust. For AI models to take charge of operations effectively, they must be transparent, explainable, robust, and ultimately, trustworthy. Building this trust will be key in accelerating the journey towards fully autonomous networks.?

Ericsson is committed to develop rApps that address the end-to-end process of network deployment, optimization, healing and evolution. Many of of these rApps leverage AI/ML.?Earlier this year, we launched an AI explainability framework to ensure? Communications Service Providers (CSPs) can understand the AI predictions and trust its recommendations. We are also fostering an open ecosystem for innovation around SMO and rApps. This initiative is already proving valuable, with tens of companies joining the ecosystem. These collaborative efforts are benefiting CSPs globally, showcasing the practical applications and advantages of the latest network automation technologies.?

What excites me the most is that this progress is happening now. The technology is ready for prime time, actively being deployed, with the industry eagerly awaiting the next level of automation. Being part of a company at the forefront of this innovation is both a privilege and a responsibility. Ericsson's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in network automation is inspiring, and I am proud to contribute to this vision.?

Looking ahead, I am optimistic about the future of our industry. The advancements in network automation are not just about improving efficiencies,; they are about unlocking new possibilities and enabling more robust and reliable communication networks. By embracing AI/ML and other innovations, we’re paving the way for a future of autonomous networks. But a word of caution: achieving this vision demands more than technology — it requires an operational transformation, including picking up new skills, updating processes, improving data management and so on.?

I am confident that with continued collaboration and innovation, we will achieve even greater milestones in network automation. Together, we are building a more connected, automated, and intelligent world.??

Thank you for being part of this exciting journey.??

Solve the Network Automation Puzzle with Cecilia

When I was growing up, the internet was already everywhere, and mobile communication was a given. This naturally helped me to develop a big interest in the technologies that form the backbone of our connected world.?

While I was studying physics in university, artificial intelligence (AI) was being used and discussed. However, it was largely research focused, and it was not yet a day-to-day tool in the way it is now.?

Fast forward to today, and this landscape has changed dramatically. AI has moved from being an abstract concept to a tangible force that drives real-world applications. The pace of innovation has been amazing to see. What excites me most is the shift from focusing on AI as a standalone technology to leveraging it as a tool for solving specific, practical problems.?

Another development that excites me in the telecom industry right now is the introduction of Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) and non-Real-Time RAN Intelligent Controller (non-RT RIC). These technologies will play a key role in bringing more openness and innovation to the RAN (Radio Access Network) domain. When they are applied across open and purpose-built multivendor RAN, they will allow us to achieve even larger-scale automation in the mobile networks and to streamline operations. I really believe in the potential for benefits that these innovations will bring!??

At Ericsson, we are building and expanding an ecosystem to provide a great developer experience to accelerate development in the automation application space. It is rewarding to see how this ecosystem is evolving at a rapid pace and the innovation it enables.?

I consider myself fortunate to have embarked on a career in telecommunications with Ericsson. Being part of an organization that is at the forefront of these technological advancements and innovation continues to inspire me every day.?

I'm a strong believer that having diverse representation and perspectives in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is essential to continue driving innovation. One critical part of this is to encourage the next generation of women to explore and excel in STEM careers, which I believe will lead to even more advancements that benefit all of society.?

Looking to the future, the continuous evolution of network automation and the integration of AI promise even greater strides in efficiency and connectivity. It’s a journey of great potential, and I'm eager to see where it takes us!?

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