Intent-driven Closed Loops for Autonomous Networks

Abstract

Closed loops are key enablers for automation that have been successfully used in many industries for long, and more recently for computing and networking applications. The Zero-touch network and service management (ZSM) framework introduced standardized components that allow the creation, execution, and governance of multiple closed loops, enabling zero-touch management of end-to-end services across different management domains. However, the coordinated and optimal instantiation and operation of multiple closed loops is an open question that is left for implementation by the ZSM specifications. In this paper, we propose a methodology that uses intents as a way of communicating requirements to be considered by autonomous management domains to coordinate hierarchies of closed loops. The intent-driven methodology facilitates hierarchical and peer interactions for delegation and escalation of intents. Furthermore, it extends the existing management capabilities of the ZSM framework and facilitates conflict-free integration of closed loops by setting optimal (and non-conflicting) goals that each closed loop in the hierarchy needs to account for. We show an example of the application of the proposed methodology in a network slicing assurance use case. The new capabilities introduced in this paper can be considered as an extension of the ZSM framework to be used in scenarios where multiple intent-driven closed loops exist.

Network resource allocation for emergency management based on closed-loop analysis

“…Closed-loop automation is a management function that utilizes feedback signals to regulate itself towards achieving a specific goal [7]. These closed-loops support autonomous behaviour by achieving their goals without external intervention.…”

“…Therefore, resource allocation is expected to become more complex as the allocation demand changes more frequently, thus creating the need to optimize the network providers' operational efficacy [7]. This is possible in autonomous networks, which can ensure optimal network resource allocation without human intervention.…”

“…Integration of closed-loops helps to monitor, analyze, and optimize network configurations while applying operator-specific policies. The use of hierarchical closed-loops has been studied in [7]. The multidomain architecture of telecommunication networks makes it possible to integrate hierarchical closed-loops in Radio Access Network (RAN), Core Network (CN), and management planes.…”

“…The multidomain architecture of telecommunication networks makes it possible to integrate hierarchical closed-loops in Radio Access Network (RAN), Core Network (CN), and management planes. The use of closed-loops to optimize resource allocation in networks has been studied in [7,9].…”

Intent Negotiation Framework for Intent-driven Service Management

“…However, increasing demand for Internet applications with stringent QoS requirements (high availability, throughput, security, and low latency) demand the human-free deployment of the services. This makes it critical to replace the human intervention with fully autonomous lifecycle consisting of artificial intelligence (AI) driven operation and management (O&M) and closed-loop automation [5].…”