Artificial intelligence will maximise efficiency of 5G network operations

Compared with previous types of networks, 5G networks are both more in need of automation and more amenable to automation. Automation tools are still evolving and machine learning is not yet common in carrier-grade networking, but rapid change is expected. Emerging standards from 3GPP, ETSI, ITU and the open source software community anticipate increased use of automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). And key suppliers' activities add credibility to the vision and promise of artificially intelligent network operations. "Growing complexity and the need to solve repetitive tasks in 5G and future radio systems necessitate new automation solutions that take advantage of state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques that boost system efficiency," wrote Ericsson's chief technology officer (CTO), Erik Ekudden, recently.