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The transformation journey toward autonomous core networks

A study from Omdia

Want to scale AI-driven automation?

Aiming to achieve Level 4 autonomous core networks? Discover the key drivers, challenges, and strategic priorities influencing service providers transition to autonomous core networks

Executive summary

Driven by 5G, cloud-native architectures, and AI, service providers are shifting from manual to autonomous core networks through AI-driven automation and intent-based orchestration. This transformation enhances performance, slashes costs, and unlocks new revenue streams, while demanding reskilling, governance, and cultural change.

This study from Omdia maps service providers transformation journeys toward autonomous core networks. The report offers practical guidance on operating-model changes and the skills and roles required.

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Key takeaways

Autonomous core prioritized

93% of respondents say autonomous core network transformation is prioritized.                                                                                                                                                                                          

Impacted KPIs

Successful transformation will improve KPIs for network performance, resilience and TCO efficiency.                                                                                                                                                                

Workforce upskilling

Is the top transformation priority, followed by process reengineering and cultural change. The greatest departmental impacts are in planning, engineering, and operations.

Key skills

To build within 6–24 months include intent/policy translation, AI/ML analytics, and threat detection.                                                                                                                                           

New roles

On the rise include autonomous network architects, network AI model developers, and AI-driven security operations specialists.                                                                                       

Use-case momentum

Within 1–2 years, performance/optimization (54%), security/compliance management (50%), and fault management (45%) use cases are most likely to reach Level 4 autonomy.

A study from Omdia

Download the full report to benchmark your readiness, prioritize high-impact use cases, and build the technology, talent, and operating model needed to achieve Level 4 autonomous core networks.

The study is commissioned by Ericsson and is based on a global survey of 42 service providers globally.

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