Network slicing is a crucial enabler and a trend for the Next Generation
Mobile Network (NGMN) and various other new systems like the Internet of
Vehicles (IoV) and Industrial IoT (IIoT). Orchestration and machine
learning are key elements with a crucial role in the network-slicing
processes since the NS process needs to orchestrate resources and
functionalities, and machine learning can potentially optimize the
orchestration process. However, existing network-slicing architectures
lack the ability to define intelligent approaches to orchestrate
features and resources in the slicing process. This paper discusses
machine learning-based orchestration of features and capabilities in
network slicing architectures. Initially, the slice resource
orchestration and allocation in the slicing planning, configuration,
commissioning, and operation phases are analyzed. In sequence, we
highlight the need for optimized architectural feature orchestration and
recommend using ML-embed agents, federated learning intrinsic mechanisms
for knowledge acquisition, and a data-driven approach embedded in the
network slicing architecture. We further develop an architectural
features orchestration case embedded in the SFI2 network slicing
architecture. An attack prevention security mechanism is developed for
the SFI2 architecture using distributed embedded and cooperating ML
agents. The case presented illustrates the architectural feature’s
orchestration process and benefits, highlighting its importance for the
network slicing process.