Network automation, being the need of the hour, is innovating into new dimensions of the internet and connectivity in enterprises. Network automation has solved so many connectivity problems like network rerouting, security issues, network prioritization, etc. In today’s era, 5G connectivity is prevailing all around the world. It is lightning-fast, reliable, and offers a secure route for sharing data.
However, 5G connectivity still requires some set of improvements in areas like self-optimization, dynamic resource allocation, and network slicing. In this article, we will study the solution to these networking concerns with the help of network automation technology.
Understanding 5G networks
Let us first understand what is meant by 5G networking and its benefits. 5G is the latest global wireless standard that connects virtually everyone and everything like machines, objects, devices, etc. This technology has opened the doors for the execution of innovative programs like VR systems, IoT, AI, etc.
Now, let us discuss the benefits of 5G connectivity:
Fast speed and low latency
5G networks provide 20 times more speed than that of 4G. In addition, it takes very little time for data transfer between various devices.
Reliable and secure network
In 5G, advanced network management techniques are used to get rid of congestion and reliability. In addition, the latest network encryption tools and authentication methods are used for enhancing security in 5G networks.
Offers flexibility in coverage
Low-band, mid-band, and mmWave frequencies, all are used in 5G networks as per the demand of user applications. This mix of bandwidth enhances the capability of 5G connectivity to run VR devices, AI applications, drones, UAVs, and many more.
5G networks: Role of automation
5G networks show the maximum capacity and capability in terms of speed, accuracy, reliability, and security. Network automation here plays a vital role in upgrading and innovating 5G networks to reach beyond the potential.
Self-optimization
5G networks alone lack self-optimization possibilities when we talk about upgrades in the digital infrastructure of enterprises, or shifting of business models. With automation, network paths can optimize themselves to a much less congested path without any need for manual intervention. In addition, automation lets the 5G infrastructure continuously monitor network performance and traffic conditions in real-time. This management of self-optimization of network routes makes 5G more efficient.
Dynamic resource allocation
Automation in 5G network architecture helps in the dynamic allocation of network resources efficiently. On a fundamental level, dynamic resource allocation refers to an API to request and share resources in pods and containers inside pods. Optimization of automated resource allocation in 5G helps minimize network latency and maximize Quality of Service(QoS).
Network slicing
Network slicing refers to the multiplexing of virtual and physical network infrastructure with independent logical networks. Here, every network slice becomes an isolated end-to-end network layer that aims to meet the diverse requirements of any user application.
Edge computing management
5G enables better network rerouting, enhanced data control, and reduced costs to minimize data transport to central hubs. Rather than routing all the data packets to a single centralized network hub, the 5G networking structure sends them to distributed data networks with the help of automation.
Benefits of Network Automation in the Telecommunication Sector
Although the benefits of network automation are not limited to a particular sector only, its impact on the telecommunication industry hit harder. Network automation has transformed and reshaped the traditional paradigms of this sector. Network automation orchestration tools enable simple coordination and management of varied networking assets.
Let us go through the transforming benefits of network automation here:
AI-driven analytics
AI-driven analytics help in automated data analysis and interpretation for deriving actionable insights. It aids in fueling predictive maintenance and optimizes the application’s performance. Further, it ensures proactive solutions to network issues like minimizing downtime and enhancement in overall network performance.
Moreover, it lessens human intervention which leads to fewer human errors with automated detection of vulnerabilities.
5G service orchestration
Service orchestration helps in the coordination of multiple service delivery in diverse domains. Moreover, it leads to the creation, deletion, and modification of services as per the user’s requirements. This feature helps in utilizing the 5G network service in managing high network requirement applications like VR.
Automated security protocols
With network automation, automatic security measures and protocols can be established to protect the confidentiality of data. Also, an automated security system can maintain the robustness of a networking architecture. Further, automated security protocols can automatically detect and prevent potential threats to streamline important data packets.
Intelligent resource allocation
Automation can help a digital infrastructure to automate resource allocation on a real-time basis and the requirements of the user. An intelligent resource allocation feature keeps track of the application’s usage pattern, based on which it prioritizes a network route. Moreover, it reduces operational costs due to negligible human intervention. Further, resource allocation based on automation can adapt to the dynamic changes of a business’s requirements.
Smart network configuration
Automation helps in fast, secure, and smart network configuration. It allows telecommunication companies to deploy new services at a fast speed to meet the growing demands of customers.
Summary
Efficient and productive network management is what an enterprise demands. With the growth and evolution in customers’ demands, the need for development in networking infrastructure has reached the creation of 5G connectivity. Now, this 5G service also requires a touch of network automation services so that the virtual and the real worlds stay connected seamlessly. Furthermore, network automation has made the telecommunication sector reach new heights of scalability, agility, and efficiency.
Some FAQs:
Q1: What are the market statistics for network automation?
A: As per reports, the network automation market can touch $ 90.3 Billion by the year 2032 with a CAGR of 17.6%.
Q2: What are the benefits of network automation?
A: Network automation can help to reduce human intervention in complex technical issues, and operational costs, and enhance the efficiency of the networks.
Q3: Does 5G really need automation?
A: 5G network architecture is a complex structure. Many times, it can be harmed by human errors unintentionally. Therefore, to simplify complex tasks, network automation is required in a 5G infrastructure.