Ericsson advances autonomous networks with a faster, simpler software approach

• Ericsson is introducing GitOps-based, declarative lifecycle and configuration management for cloud-native core networks
• The introduction is the latest element of Ericsson Intelligent Core offering, creating a foundation for AI-driven, intent-based, autonomous network operations at scale across CSP environments.
• As shown in early deployments with Swisscom, this model delivers significantly faster, simpler and more reliable operations  

Ericsson has introduced new capabilities, providing a strong foundation for autonomous networks (AN) at scale while strengthening Communication Service Providers’ (CSP) cloud operating models and simplifying software lifecycle and configuration management.

Ericsson is enhancing how its core network software is deployed in CSP networks, providing GitOps-compliant packages and configuration management for all its cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core network functions (CNFs). The new model of deployment will become available for applications and products across its full core network portfolio over time.

Ericsson is strengthening cloud-native Core operations by moving from procedure-driven lifecycle and configuration management to declarative, automated workflows. The fully declarative model enhances automation capabilities with support for resource-level intent, accelerates day-to-day operations, and streamlines the introduction of new features and services.

This latest addition to Ericsson’s Intelligent Core offering provides the foundation for AN by combining AI-driven insights with intent-based, closed-loop operations. Central to the GitOps methodology is the declaration of a desired network state. This declared state serves as the single source of truth, with Git providing version control and an automated reconciliation process ensuring that the actual network state aligns with the desired state through software lifecycle management and configuration management workflows. This is the basis of being able to apply changes or updates to scale AN use-cases based on AI-derived insights, moving at speed and managing complexity that would be difficult with manual lifecycle and configuration management

Swisscom has worked closely with Ericsson to integrate this new software delivery and management capability, running alongside its own automation practices, to its network. The collaboration has enabled it to achieve significant results, including 60 percent faster upgrades and 97 percent faster service set up. It has also powered a shift away from traditional monthly maintenance windows and manual overnight upgrades towards automated software delivery and change management during normal working hours. Swisscom is now exploring additional areas where the new model can be applied, including the development of novel use-cases powered by AI-driven automation of tasks such as roaming partner configuration. The result is a more agile network, with speedier upgrades and a foundation in place for autonomous, AI-assisted operations.

Philipp Bichsel, Executive Vice President Mobile Network & Services at Swisscom: “Ericsson’s GitOps-based approach has helped us simplify and accelerate the operation of our cloud-native network. It has played a key role in Swisscom’s development from a traditional telco to a TechCo focused on intelligent automation, cloud-native operations, and continuous software delivery. These investments will lead to more efficient operations, faster innovation, and measurable productivity gains, and our deep collaboration on this transformation demonstrates what is possible when strong, aligned partners work together toward a shared vision.”

Caroline Chappell, Senior Analyst and Founder, CCSquared says: "The introduction of GitOps is critical for CSPs seeking to implement the cloud-native operating model needed to power an autonomous networking future. GitOps enables CSPs to manage the complexity not only of a software-based core but of the entire cloud-native network, the keystone of a strategy for driving new revenue streams from 5G Standalone and beyond. CSPs should ensure that their core is well-supported with a GitOps-based software lifecycle and configuration management solution that simplifies operational complexity, provides a pathway to autonomy and supports the core’s ability to perform reliably and resiliently in the face of change."

Monica Zethzon, Head of Core Networks at Ericsson says: “Declarative management through GitOps is here, providing our customers with an important new element for the Cloud Operating Model and autonomous networks. Building on our In-Service capabilities and aligned lifecycle management automation, it will give CSPs greater operational efficiency, scalability and, ultimately, support new opportunities for growth. Our collaboration with Swisscom has been essential in advancing this capability, providing important real-world experience and verification, helping us mature the approach and bring it to a point where we can now make it available to all. We look forward to working with customers to build simpler processes, more autonomous operations, and better capacity to fulfil the most demanding business objectives.”

Ericsson is introducing Git-compatible software packages to enhance lifecycle management of core network software. Configuration and operationalization of these software updates may then be handled by existing capabilities such as those provided by Ericsson Orchestrator. This new approach will sit alongside other elements of Ericssons Intelligent Core offering, building on the company’s extensive experience in cloud-native operations. It will line up with its CI/CD pipeline supporting In-Service Software Upgrade (ISSU), and facilitates alignment with the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform architecture by integrating with other Ericsson products for lifecycle and configuration management, including multi-vendor support.