Huawei's Network Transformation Towards Comprehensive Intelligence

Steven Zhao, Vice President of Data Communication Division at Huawei, delivered a keynote speech at the Huawei Analyst Summit 2024, discussing the acceleration of network transformation towards comprehensive intelligence. He explained how Huawei has incorporated artificial intelligence technologies to enhance the network’s capabilities on individual cases, processes, and systems, ultimately speeding up its intelligence.

With the advancement of AI technologies, Zhao emphasized the need for networks to be deeply integrated with AI technologies, ushering Net5.5G into the intelligent era. He stated that network innovations in the Net5.5G era consist of two aspects: AI for networks and networks for AI. Intelligent networks encompass intelligent network elements, digital twins, and generative AI, all of which serve as pillars for efficient and intelligent network operations. AI-based network solutions precisely cater to the needs of intelligent networks, enabling faster AI learning and maximizing the transmission capacity of intelligent computers.

Huawei has been at the forefront of utilizing network intelligence technologies in the realm of data communication. Their groundbreaking Net Master technology, based on generative AI, and the HD network digital map expedite the transition to autonomous L4 networks. The high-quality 10 Gb/s CloudCampus Net5.5G leverages AI technologies to modernize wireless connectivity, applications, and operations and maintenance. The Net5.5G Converged WAN solution, with high throughput, high elasticity, and highly guaranteed performance, offers intelligent transmission capacity for the era of computational power. Additionally, HiSec SASE enables intelligent defense and significantly enhances the efficiency of security operations.

Ethan, the Director of Network Infrastructure at iFlytek, shared innovative practices regarding Huawei’s Net5.5G Xinghe solution for their data centers. This solution provides iFlytek with a cluster of over 10,000 GPU/NPU, increasing the efficiency of AI model training by 17% and reducing interruptions by 80%.

This year, 2024, marks the first commercial utilization of the Net5.5G network. The World Broadband Alliance (WBBA) and its members presented initiatives for the Net5.5G industry to build high-speed cutting-edge network infrastructure. The China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) also discussed the architecture of the next-generation internet, Net5.5G, which brings forth a new wave of innovations in network technologies.

Steven Zhao urged all stakeholders to embrace Net5.5G, adopt intelligent technologies, deploy network digital twins on a large scale, and drive innovation in AI technologies. These efforts will ultimately accelerate the network’s transformation towards comprehensive intelligence.

Huawei’s network transformation towards comprehensive intelligence is a significant development in the telecommunications industry. As mentioned in the article, Huawei has incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance network capabilities, ultimately speeding up its intelligence. However, there are additional facts and trends relevant to this topic that are not mentioned in the article.

Current Market Trends:
1. 5G Deployment: The rollout of 5G networks is a crucial trend in the telecommunications industry. As the world transitions to 5G, Huawei’s network transformation towards comprehensive intelligence aligns with the growing demand for advanced connectivity and improved network performance.

2. Edge Computing: Edge computing is gaining prominence as a trend in network technologies. It involves processing data closer to the source, reducing latency and improving real-time decision-making capabilities. Huawei’s incorporation of AI technologies in their network transformation aligns with the growing adoption of edge computing to enhance network intelligence and efficiency.

Forecasts:
1. Increased AI Integration: The integration of AI technologies in network operations is projected to increase in the coming years. AI will play a vital role in automating network management, optimizing performance, and enhancing security. Huawei’s focus on AI-based network solutions positions them well in anticipation of this trend.

2. Enhanced Network Security: With the advancement in network intelligence, there is a growing need for robust security measures to protect against cyber threats. Huawei’s HiSec SASE solution, which enables intelligent defense, indicates the increasing importance of security in network transformation. As networks become more intelligent, the challenge of securing them against evolving threats will continue to be a key concern.

Key Challenges and Controversies:
1. Geopolitical Concerns: Huawei has faced geopolitical challenges due to concerns raised by certain countries regarding its network equipment and its association with the Chinese government. These concerns have led to bans or restrictions on Huawei’s participation in 5G network deployments in some countries, potentially impacting the global adoption of Huawei’s network transformation initiatives.

2. Privacy and Data Protection: The increasing adoption of AI and intelligent network technologies raises concerns about data privacy and protection. As networks become more intelligent, there is a need to address privacy and regulatory implications to ensure the responsible use and handling of user data.

Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
1. Enhanced Network Performance: Huawei’s network transformation towards comprehensive intelligence, driven by AI technologies, aims to improve network performance, responsiveness, and efficiency. This can lead to faster data transmission, reduced latency, and improved user experience.

2. Automation and Efficiency: AI-based network solutions enable automation of network management tasks, freeing up resources and enhancing operational efficiency. This can result in cost savings and better utilization of network resources.

Disadvantages:
1. Dependency on AI Technology: Relying heavily on AI technologies may bring challenges such as potential biases in decision-making processes and a lack of human oversight. It is crucial to ensure that the integration of AI in network operations is carefully monitored and validated to mitigate any adverse effects.

2. Regulatory and Legal Issues: As networks become more intelligent and data-driven, compliance with regulations regarding privacy, data protection, and network security becomes increasingly critical. Non-compliance can lead to legal issues and reputational damage.