Autonomous networks explained

Autonomous networks

Experience networks that adapt to your business objectives in real time

Autonomous networks mark a new era for networks – replacing traditional rule-based automation with autonomous operations capable of thinking, learning, adapting and making business-critical decisions in real time with zero human intervention.

Autonomous networks are built on the key pillars of agentic closed-loop automation, intent-driven interactivity and interoperability, intelligent data management and open platforms and APIs. At the very foundation sit the network’s autonomous domains, each equipped with self-x capabilities that enable domains to deploy, configure, monitor, maintain and retire by themselves.

Through autonomous network operations, the dots are connected. Dynamic intent management and agentic AI closed-loop automation ensure that high-level business objectives are translated into actionable network updates: analyzing intents, adapting to changing conditions and resolving conflicts to orchestrate and maintain the delivery of advanced services across all OSS/BSS layers, vendors and network domains.

In doing so, autonomous networks lay a crucial foundation for new business paradigms, making it possible for networks to streamline, scale and shorten the time to market for advanced network services – from differentiated connectivity to APIs and beyond.

“Intent-driven networking provides a key step on the journey to truly autonomous networks. As leaders in this space, we’re ready to guide our customers through this transformation.”

Erik Ekudden, Ericsson CTO

Autonomous networks shift operations and maintenance away from static rule-based automation – managed by humans, towards more dynamic intent-based automation – governed by humans. In doing so, autonomous networks reduce the cost, complexity and speed of managing a growing complex ecosystem of 5G services – as well as driving more frequent and more business-aligned optimization across the network than has ever been possible.

Enhance your customer experience

Autonomous networks monitor service degradation patterns and take corrective actions before they impact your customer experience. In addition, smarter and frequent hyper-automated interactions between customers, business teams and the network ensure that issues get solved faster and services feel more responsive.

Drive resource efficiency based on business goals

Autonomous networks align resource use with overarching business priorities to ensure capacity is directed where it delivers the most impact. This translates into network actions that harness smarter resource- and energy use, creating more efficient operations that drive key business objectives.

Guarantee SLA commitments at scale

Autonomous networks combine intent management with SLA assurance to guarantee the right performance, in the right place, at the right time and at scale. Service-specific intents make this possible, continuously monitoring and triggering actions that keep your SLAs in check.

Translating business intents into network actions harnesses the network’s ability to think, reason and adapt with cognitive autonomy. This is performed through numerous autonomous network agents that work together to analyze the network state, identify anomalies and causes, search and test different solutions and execute corrective actions in real time. Throughout the process, agentic AI continuously learns from outcomes to improve future responses.

Define

Business intents are expressed, requested and confirmed through an intent management loop that takes place across each autonomous domain. New services are proposed, evaluated and requested (via the orchestration function) based on their suitability to satisfy the intent. Through a separate closed cognitive loop, the process of intent assurance then begins.

Observe

Autonomous network agents are put to work to interpret intents and assess the current network state. This takes place through an assurance agent that collects, analyses and leverages network data to monitor and assess the health of the newly activated service. If the intent is not met, a closed loop activity is triggered.

Decide

When a closed loop activity is triggered, utility-based evaluation helps the system determine the most valuable course of action, even in the face of conflicting requirements or new conditions. This allows for dynamic prioritization and decision-making aligned with business goals.

Act

Through an actuation agent, the network takes corrective action – generating the required modification requests through the orchestration function. Based on current resources and topology, the service(s) is re-designed, calculating the appropriate execution plan that will be used to alter the resource configurations in the network.

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A major step forward in the evolution towards autonomous networks is the introduction of intent-based operations. Intents today are mainly used as a simplification of configuration capabilities; that is simplifying initial or re-configuration of up-and-running systems by stating requirements instead of by giving detailed instructions. Intents need to evolve to also cover observability aspects enabling full intent-based service assurance.

In addition to intent-based operations, autonomous networks are also enabled by advances in network programmability, AI-driven data management and AI-powered closed-loop automation.

Intent-driven networking

Intent-driven networking shifts operations from task-based commands to high-level, outcome-focused goals. Intents that you provide are interpreted as dynamic utility-based goals, enabling AI agents to determine and execute corrective actions. Intent management functions are separated across multiple autonomous domains each with a specific responsibility scope. To reach its goals, autonomous domains coordinate with other domains to ensure that requirements are met. This approach ensures that your network’s behavior is always aligned with your business priorities.

Programmable networks

Programmability in radio access networks (RAN) enables networks to become more adaptive and efficient, and is key to driving advanced services based on differentiated connectivity. It also lays the groundwork to deploy autonomous network technologies such as intent-driven networking, AI-driven data management and agentic closed-loop automation. The integration of intelligent, programmable capabilities directly within the RAN layer through smart applications (rApps) and a service management and orchestration (SMO) framework lays the basis for this evolution.

AI-driven data management

A continuously updated knowledge base enables autonomous networks to reason, evaluate options, and verify intent fulfillment. This base is formed through a rich set of data points, including graph neural networks and digital twins that can be used to transparently validate implementations. It also includes real-time data such as network performance management KPIs and predictive analytics. With harmonized data pipelines, AI-optimized data operations and intelligent knowledge modeling, the system supports strategic decision-making by maximizing global utility and adapting dynamically to changing conditions.

Agentic closed-loop automation

Based on a perpetual cognitive cycle of observation, reasoning and action, AI-driven closed loop automation enables your network to continuously align network operations with high-level intents. The cognitive layer sits at the center of this process, where real-time data continuously interacts with a reasoning engine and specialized agents to monitor, analyze, decide and execute autonomously. This dynamic intent-driven loop ensures service assurance, resolves conflicts and continuously improves performance, even as business needs and network conditions change.

Autonomous systems require an AI-driven framework that supports service operation, integration, creation and assurance processes in a non-disruptive manner at run time. Talk to your network is an umbrella term that brings together key AI technologies and enablers to establish autonomous networks capable of addressing those areas.

The talk to your network framework integrates knowledge and agent-driven methods to transform natural language into actionable intelligence. Talk to your network completely changes the way you can interact with OSS/BSS and the network domains to drive different types of tasks and processes, as it leverages, as it leverages three AI technology pillars of autonomous networks: generative AI, agentic AI and intent-based AI. Together, these pillars contribute to an integrated system capable of conversation, orchestration, intent decomposition, and autonomous execution.

Learn more about talk to your network.

Conversational AI

Conversational AI, powered by generative AI and large language models, enables natural context-aware communication between humans and machines, as well as between machines themselves. It interprets language, understands intent, and generates explainable responses, helping users interact with complex systems more intuitively. This technology also supports agent-to-agent collaboration and task planning, bridging human input with intelligent automation in areas like telecom network management.

Agentic AI

Agentic AI empowers autonomous agents to sense, think and act independently, functioning as a cohesive system capable of dynamic adaptation. These agents collaborate, adapt in real time, and use tools like reinforcement learning and large language models to communicate, solve problems, and coordinate tasks. This results in a flexible, intelligent system capable of handling complex objectives with minimal human oversight.

Intent-based AI

Intent-based AI acts as the coordination layer that translates high-level goals into clear, actionable steps for autonomous systems. To do this, it breaks down user or business intents into smaller tasks, aligning them with the right agents or system functions to ensure everything works toward a common objective. Together with conversational and agentic AI, it translates high-level intents into actionable steps by turning broad goals into structured, executable plans.

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Intent-driven networks is a key step in the journey to autonomous networks

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An autonomous network is subdivided into autonomous domains according to the generic architecture proposed by TM Forum. Autonomous domains are allocated within layers of the network operation software stack, residing on the business, service or resource layer. Within a layer, multiple autonomous domains may exist in parallel or in further subordinate layers, each with terminal goals that it is required to meet and optimize. To reach its goals, it also needs other domains to contribute to and comply with certain requirements.

Intent is used to communicate and manage these requirements in the various layers in our layered approach to intent management. An intent manager plays the role of intent owner if it defines requirements with which another domain needs to comply. If, on the other hand, it receives requirements that it must comply with in its own domain, it assumes the role of intent handler.

Multi-layer

At the business layer, intent-based management makes it possible for you to align your network investments with profitability and customer experience goals, even under uncertainty. The service layer translates these business intents into actionable service requirements, coordinating with orchestrators and monitoring fulfillment. Finally, the resource layer executes these requirements across each autonomous domain. By applying AI and intent interfaces consistently across all layers, your network can make predictive, real-time decisions that ensure end-to-end service assurance and adaptability.

Multi-domain

At Ericsson, our standards-based and open solutions ensure full autonomy in both single- and multi-vendor environments. Service orchestration and assurance are handled both within individual domains and across domains, ensuring seamless coordination. Deployed as modular building blocks with a clear separation of concerns means that each domain can evolve independently while contributing to the overall agility and efficiency of your network.

The role of intent at each layer

The business layer

At the business layer, intent captures customer expectations and business goals, replacing traditional service level objectives (SLOs) with dynamic, goal-driven requirements. These intents are defined during service ordering and negotiated through APIs, then passed to the service layer for fulfillment. Here, the focus is on intent-based assurance that monitors service performance, predicts SLA violations and takes corrective actions based on business value.

The service layer

At the service layer, business intents are translated into actionable service and resource requirements. Here, the service orchestrator dynamically selects and configures services based on intent. The system continuously monitors compliance and only acts when requirements are not met. This layer decouples service logic from specific resources, allowing more flexible and AI-driven orchestration. It enables real-time autonomous healing, optimization and service adaptation, ensuring that services evolve with changing conditions and demands.

The resource layer

In the network domains in the resource layer, intent is handled at two levels: the management layer and the network function layer. For example, the RAN domain’s intent manager ensures compliance with service-layer requirements using analytics, orchestration and AI agents. If deemed necessary, existing service instances can be reshaped to use new or more efficient resources. Intent-aware RAN functions monitor real-time performance and adjust configurations or control loops to meet evolving requirements. This and similar implementations for the other network domains enable the network to self-optimize and evolve based on overarching business objectives.

Embarking on a multi-year autonomous network journey requires a holistic transformation where data management ensures trusted output, AI drives intelligent automation, cloud and IT provides scalable infrastructure, service orchestration enables agile delivery, and monetization strategies convert technological advances into revenue.

However, no one journey is the same. With different tech environments, business priorities and deployment challenges to consider, each transformation journey must be designed and paced according to each unique context. A strategic framework provides the foundation for this, meaning that key transformation areas can be identified, measured and prioritized systematically. This also provides a basis to benchmark progress and address gaps that can accelerate the journey to full autonomy.

Level 1 – Assisted operations

Basic automation supports human operators through scripted tasks, with limited data integration and manual deployment of monolithic OSS/BSS systems on traditional hardware. Service orchestration is slow with high error rates, relying on manual processes and traditional interfaces. Offerings are based on basic service tiers differentiated by bandwidth and price points.

Level 2 – Partial autonomy

Workflow-based automation is deployed across specific domains using static rules supported by centralized data repositories. Virtualized infrastructures and predictive AI/ML models lay the basis for some basic automation, however human oversight remains essential for critical decisions. At this level, services become more dynamic, featuring policy-driven connectivity, event-based charging and early-stage integration with OSS for usage data.

Level 3 – Conditional autonomy

AI/ML models begin to support decision-making for discrete tasks, enabling policy-driven automation with reduced human intervention. Real-time data pipelines and cloud-native containerized microservices allow systems to detect and respond to events dynamically. Cross-domain orchestration platforms are introduced to improve visibility and enable closed-loop automation for reactive self-management and auto-remediation. Services are created, deployed and managed based on AI-driven insights, with near real-time OSS integration for usage data.

Level 4 – High autonomy

All tasks are automated for certain processes based on declarative goals (intents) with human supervision supported by AI/ML driving decision-making, predictive analysis, and real-time adaptation across domains. Cloud and IT environments are self-optimizing and leverage reinforcement learning and predictive scaling. Closed-loop automation enables continuous performance tuning, while differentiated connectivity services adapt to network and application needs. OSS feedback supports real-time assurance and monetization orchestration.

Level 5 – Full autonomy

All operations are fully automated with no or minimal human intervention. A unified data platform enables end-to-end governance, self-service analytics and AI-driven automation. Cognitive systems continuously learn, adapt to unforeseen challenges and optimize long-term outcomes using advanced techniques like causal inference and anomaly detection. Cloud-native IT environments are entirely self-managing and self-healing. Cognitive orchestration autonomously translates business goals into actions, while a self-learning monetization engine dynamically adjusts offers, pricing and bundles based on real-time insights into customer behavior and network conditions.

Explore our OSS/BSS e-brief to find out what’s needed to advance your journey.

An important step toward autonomous networks

Find out more about Digital Nasional Berhad´s (DNB) autonomous networks level 4 scenario with the recent introduction of Intent-based operations (IBO) to enable differentiated premium 5G services with guaranteed service level agreements (SLAs) for consumers and enterprise businesses.

An award-winning solution that has garnered four prestigious industry recognitions within its first year since launch, including the latest TM Forum award for Innovation Pioneers Projects, highlighting its impact on high-value scenarios for Autonomous Networks (AN) Level-4.

Ken Tan, DNB, and Sam Keys’ Toyer at FutureNet Asia 2024

Embarking on the journey toward autonomous networks requires a carefully crafted strategic roadmap that harmonizes technological advancements and investments with your overarching business goals.

By setting a strategic compass, you can effectively navigate the complexities of transitioning to autonomous networks, ensuring that your technological investments are aligned with and drive your business goals. This balanced approach not only facilitates innovation but also guarantees that your network evolution is sustainable and value-driven.

Deconstruct new services

Transforming business outcomes into precise functional requirements is crucial for transitioning from "best effort" services to guaranteeing premium Service Level Agreements (SLAs). This involves:

Understanding Business Goals: Clearly define what success looks like for your organization and how autonomous networks can support those objectives.
Mapping Requirements: Break down these goals into specific technical and operational requirements that the network must fulfill to deliver on premium SLAs.
Iterative Refinement: Continually refine these requirements as your business and technological landscape evolves.

Choose the right path

Selecting the optimal route towards autonomous networks requires alignment with your unique business objectives. Considerations include:

Business Alignment: Align network capabilities with strategic business priorities, such as improving customer experience or reducing operational costs.
Scalability and Flexibility: Choose a path that allows for scalability and adaptability to future technological advancements.
Risk Management: Evaluate and mitigate potential risks associated with the transition to higher levels of network autonomy.

Invest for value

Developing an investment strategy for 5G autonomous networks requires a guiding framework that ensures alignment with long-term goals. Key elements include:

Strategic Prioritization: Prioritize investments based on potential ROI and alignment with business objectives.
Technology Assessment: Continuously evaluate emerging technologies and their potential impact on your network strategy.
Value Realization: Focus on realizing tangible benefits from investments through improved network performance and new service offerings.

Today, Ericsson plays a decisive role in shaping a common industry vision for autonomous networks across standardization fora such as the TM Forum, 3GPP and Open RAN.

TM Forum provides a foundational reference architecture and intent-management APIs, while 3GPP extends these concepts for specific services. O-RAN is working to unify these approaches to support an open, intelligent RAN.

Alignment of these activities across standards bodies and open-source communities will remain crucial to building an open, interoperable ecosystem for autonomous networks.