Intent-Based Networking for Zero-Touch Optical Networking

The Intent-Based Networking (IBN) paradigm targets at defining high-level abstractions, so network operators can define what are their desired outcomes without specifying how they would be achieved. The latter can be achieved by leveraging network programmability, monitoring and data analytics, as well as the key assurance component. In this paper, we introduce the IBN paradigm and its application to optical networking, highlighting the benefits that Machine Learning (ML) algorithms can provide to IBN. Illustrative examples of intent-based operation are presented for proactive self-configuration and cooperative intent operation.