Network & Service Management Advancements - Key frameworks and Interfaces towards open, Intelligent and reliable 6G networks

This whitepaper from the SNS JU Reliable Software Networks Working Group presents recent advancements in network and service management towards 6G networks.The focus is on network and service management solutions implemented in Software. Thus, in the whitepaper it is highlighted the intensive work that is being conducted on Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) definition and implementation, as well as on APIs usage for network exposure and programmability. Given the flexibility and openness enabled by interfaces and APIs, 6G networks are called to support a massive number of simultaneous and heterogeneous slices associated with various vertical use cases. In this framework, service management is taking advantage of intent-based and intelligent approaches (AI/ML toolbox) while resource management is tailored to an efficient lifecycle of the underlay computing continuum infrastructure. In addition, a lot of effort is allocated to technologies supporting the management of resources in dynamically changing environments, such as those in non-terrestrial networks. Regarding security and trust management, various features of different scope shall be considered, including Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) systems, Security information and event management (SIEM) systems, Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) Sharing, and trustworthiness assessment systems. Moreover, critical challenges emerge from the adoption of the DevSecOps and DevPrivOps principles.Overall, Software transforms 6G into a dynamic, intelligent, and secure platform capable of meeting the demands of future applications. These elements collectively drive innovation, scalability, and reliability while ensuring that 6G networks remain adaptable and resilient in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.