IBN@TEIN

AI-driven Intent-based Networking Platform for Service Deployment with QoS Assurance

AI/ML SDN IBN QoS Real-time

Project Overview

The IBN@TEIN project represents a groundbreaking initiative to establish an AI-driven intent-based networking platform across multiple Asian countries. By integrating Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Machine Learning (ML), and real-time monitoring into a closed-loop control system, this project automates service deployment with Quality of Service (QoS) assurance across the TEIN infrastructure.

Participating Countries

🇰🇷
Korea

Jeju National University, NIA

🇵🇰
Pakistan

PERN, NUST, SUIT

🇲🇾
Malaysia

University of Malaya, MYREN

🇰🇭
Cambodia

Institute of Technology, CamREN

Project Objectives

AI-Enabled SDN Architecture

Deploy domain-based intelligent J-boxes with advanced SDN capabilities for automated network management and service orchestration.

ML-Driven Predictive Routing

Train machine learning models using monitored network metrics to enable intelligent path selection and predictive network optimization.

Closed-Loop IBN System

Establish a comprehensive intent-based networking system capable of managing resources in real-time with minimal human intervention.

Regional Collaboration

Facilitate hands-on training and knowledge transfer for federated deployment across participating countries and institutions.

System Architecture

The IBN@TEIN platform leverages cutting-edge technologies to create an intelligent, self-managing network infrastructure that adapts to changing conditions and requirements in real-time.

🧠
AI/ML Engine
Advanced machine learning algorithms for predictive path selection and network optimization using real-time metrics and historical data.
📡
Intelligent J-boxes
Domain-based intelligent junction boxes that serve as SDN-enabled nodes for distributed network management and control.
🔄
Closed-Loop Control
Automated feedback system that continuously monitors, analyzes, and adjusts network behavior to maintain optimal performance.
📊
Real-time Monitoring
Comprehensive monitoring infrastructure using Grafana, Prometheus, and Node Exporter for continuous network visibility.
QoS Assurance
Dynamic quality of service management ensuring optimal performance for critical applications and services.
🌐
Federated SDN
Multi-domain software-defined networking approach enabling seamless collaboration across participating countries.

Key Activities & Implementation

Feasibility & Training Workshops

Conducted comprehensive feasibility meetings and online training workshops focusing on J-box deployment and SDN/IBN components across all participating countries.

SDN Cloud Site Deployment

Successfully deployed three SDN-enabled cloud sites in Malaysia and Korea, establishing the foundational infrastructure for the IBN platform.

Monitoring Infrastructure

Implemented real-time monitoring capabilities using Grafana and Prometheus on deployed instances, providing comprehensive network visibility and analytics.

ML Model Development

Developed and integrated ML-driven path selection models with SDN controllers, enabling intelligent routing decisions based on network conditions and performance metrics.

APAN54 Participation

Presented project outcomes at APAN54 conference and conducted specialized training sessions on PySpark and IBN system implementation for regional stakeholders.

Key Outcomes & Achievements

4 Countries Connected
3 SDN Sites Deployed
100% AI Integration
24/7 Real-time Monitoring

Technical Achievements

  • AI-Powered IBN Architecture: Successfully prototyped and deployed an intelligent intent-based networking architecture in laboratory and test environments, demonstrating autonomous network management capabilities.
  • Intelligent J-box Network: Established intelligent J-boxes at 3 partner sites with comprehensive monitoring modules, creating a distributed intelligence network across the region.
  • Comprehensive Monitoring Stack: Integrated advanced monitoring tools including Grafana, Node Exporter, and Prometheus for real-time network visibility and performance analytics.
  • Regional Capacity Building: Trained stakeholders through hybrid and physical workshops, APAN meetings, and specialized technical sessions, building regional expertise in IBN technologies.

Innovation Highlights

Predictive Path Selection

ML algorithms analyze network metrics to predict optimal routing paths, reducing latency and improving overall network performance through intelligent decision-making.

Autonomous Service Deployment

Intent-based networking capabilities enable automatic service deployment and configuration based on high-level policies and requirements.

Multi-Domain Federation

Federated SDN architecture allows seamless collaboration and resource sharing across different administrative domains and countries.

Real-time Adaptation

Closed-loop control system continuously monitors network conditions and automatically adapts configurations to maintain optimal performance.

Challenges & Strategic Solutions

Challenges Addressed

Equipment Procurement Delays: Supply chain disruptions affected hardware delivery timelines, requiring adaptive project scheduling and alternative deployment strategies.
COVID-19 Impact: Pandemic restrictions limited physical deployment activities and delayed on-site implementation, necessitating enhanced remote collaboration tools.
Vendor Availability: Limited local vendor presence in some participating countries affected equipment procurement and technical support capabilities.

Strategic Solutions

Adaptive Deployment: Implemented flexible deployment strategies that accommodate equipment delivery schedules while maintaining project momentum.
Remote Collaboration: Enhanced virtual training and deployment support capabilities to overcome physical access limitations.
Regional Partnerships: Strengthened partnerships with local organizations to overcome vendor availability challenges and ensure sustainable support.

Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 4 Quality Education
SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals

Future Directions & Roadmap

Next Phase Deployment

The project roadmap includes expanding IBN capabilities to Cambodia and Pakistan following equipment delivery, with comprehensive monitoring infrastructure to support full ML model training and deployment across all participating countries.

Enhanced Autonomy

Future development will focus on enabling fully autonomous orchestration via the IBN engine with enhanced multi-domain support, allowing for seamless service deployment and management across the entire TEIN network infrastructure.

Vision for Intelligent Networks

The IBN@TEIN project is pioneering the future of intelligent networking in Asia, where AI-driven systems will autonomously manage complex network infrastructures, optimize performance in real-time, and enable unprecedented levels of service quality and reliability. This foundation will support the next generation of research, education, and innovation across the region.

Scaling & Replication

Regional Expansion

Extend IBN capabilities to additional TEIN member countries, creating a comprehensive intelligent network infrastructure across Asia-Pacific.

Enhanced ML Models

Develop more sophisticated machine learning algorithms incorporating advanced analytics, predictive capabilities, and autonomous decision-making processes.

Cross-Domain Integration

Implement seamless integration between different network domains, enabling unified management and optimization across diverse infrastructure environments.

Industry Standards

Contribute to the development of industry standards for intent-based networking and AI-driven network management in research and education networks.