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Telstra and Ericsson have conducted a successful trial of the Ericsson Automated Configuration Consistency (EACC) rApp, marking a world first for this technology’s deployment on a live commercial network. The trial, run on Telstra’s network, also included the use of the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP), a Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) solution aimed at enabling advanced automation and Ai-driven optimisations.
This collaboration underscores Telstra’s commitment to adopting technologies that support its goal of achieving an autonomous network.
Pioneering Automation with the EACC rApp
The EACC rApp, introduced as part of the trial, enables operators to detect and correct configuration inconsistencies within the RAN network while providing the option to roll back changes if performance metrics, or KPIs, are impacted. This capability is designed to enhance operational efficiency and maintain consistency across network configurations.
Telstra Network Engineering Executive Sri Amirthalingam expressed enthusiasm for the results, noting, “Our collaboration with Ericsson in the trial deployment of the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform in our commercial network is another example of our ongoing technology leadership and pursuit of better experiences for our customers.” Amirthalingam highlighted that “using an rApp to ensure that our desired network configuration is maintained demonstrates how we can provide a more consistent experience across our entire network.”
This trial is part of Telstra’s journey toward an autonomous network, with the aim of introducing self-optimising, self-healing, and self-assuring capabilities into various network management functions, ultimately reducing the need for human intervention.
Advancing Automation and Network Performance
Ericsson’s EIAP serves as a platform for automation that uses Ai and machine learning to optimise network performance and abstract the complexities of modern networks. By implementing EIAP, communications service providers (CSPs) can deliver consistent, high-quality service across the network, supporting improved experiences for consumers, including smoother streaming and gaming with minimal delays.
Emilio Romeo, Head of Ericsson Australia and New Zealand, described the trial as an important milestone in the development of autonomous networks. “The trial deployment of the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform in Telstra’s network represents a significant milestone,” Romeo said. “By integrating advanced Ai and machine learning capabilities, EIAP will enable CSPs to deliver superior network performance, enhanced automation, and improved operational efficiency.”
The EIAP platform also provides an open ecosystem, offering resources such as an open Software Development Kit (SDK) and Developer Portal. These tools allow rApp developers to build automation applications that enhance network capabilities across areas including network deployment, optimisation, and healing.
Supporting the Growing rApp Ecosystem
Through this trial, Telstra has accessed and utilised the tools available in Ericsson’s rApp ecosystem. This expanding ecosystem aims to support automation and Ai in network management, allowing developers to create rApps that can address different network needs and improve overall service reliability. As a result, Telstra is one of the first CSPs to deploy an rApp live on a commercial network, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and leadership in the telecommunications sector.
Ericsson has introduced a dedicated rApp Directory, where further information on EACC and other rApps can be accessed. This directory aims to support the development of new rApps and provide CSPs with a comprehensive guide to the available automation applications.
Future of Autonomous Networks
The successful trial demonstrates the potential of the EIAP and EACC rApp in supporting the evolution toward autonomous networks, positioning Telstra and Ericsson at the forefront of industry innovation. With advanced automation, Ai-driven solutions, and the growing rApp ecosystem, both companies are making strides in enhancing network efficiency and service quality for users.
Last Updated on October 25, 2024 by Nick Ross
