What's Happening?
Ericsson has announced that Malaysia's Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has become the first mobile operator globally to be validated by TM Forum for achieving Level 4 autonomy in service assurance on its 5G network. This validation underscores DNB's capabilities
in 5G automation and intelligent network operation, powered by Ericsson's AI-driven Intent-based Operations (IBO) solution. The solution was deployed in DNB's multi-operator core network in late 2023 to manage the competing needs for radio network resources from mobile operators offering 5G services. TM Forum's Autonomous Network Level Assessment Validation (ANLAV) program certified DNB and Ericsson at Level 4 autonomy, which involves AI predicting issues and automatically adjusting the network to maintain optimal performance. This level of autonomy allows for real-time monitoring, analysis, and optimization, enhancing reliability, agility, security, and management ease.
Why It's Important?
Achieving Level 4 autonomy in service assurance is a significant milestone for DNB and Ericsson, as it enhances the ability of Malaysia's network operators to offer differentiated connectivity services. This advancement is particularly crucial for mission-critical applications in public safety, healthcare, smart cities, autonomous transport, and manufacturing. The validation by TM Forum confirms the capability of the DNB/Ericsson system to operate highly automated systems independently, supporting industrial and enterprise-grade services. This development positions Malaysia as a leader in 5G technology, offering world-class connectivity at competitive costs, and sets a precedent for other operators globally to follow suit in adopting autonomous network technologies.
What's Next?
With the validation of Level 4 autonomy, DNB and Ericsson are poised to further enhance their network capabilities, potentially expanding their service offerings to include more advanced applications in various sectors. The integration of AI and automation in network operations is expected to continue evolving, with potential upgrades to Level 5 autonomy, which represents fully autonomous operations. This progression could lead to more efficient and innovative solutions in telecommunications, driving further advancements in 5G technology and its applications.
Beyond the Headlines
The achievement of Level 4 autonomy in service assurance by DNB and Ericsson highlights the growing importance of AI and automation in telecommunications. This development may influence other operators to invest in similar technologies, fostering a competitive environment that accelerates innovation in network operations. Additionally, the focus on mission-critical applications underscores the potential for 5G technology to transform industries and improve public services, contributing to economic growth and societal benefits.
