AL and ML predict trouble spots
MTN Benin and Ericsson are using cognitive software to tackle network traffic jams, as the telco bids to become “the leading provider of digital services in West Africa”, according to its CEO. The telco and the equipment maker are working together to create an Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) system to address local throughput challenges in the West African nation.
The major problem is throughput degradation on the network and in response the vendor and operator have built a network management system using AI and ML. Ericsson’s Operation Engine is being used as the basis for creating data-driven network operations and the project engineers are using AI-enabled Cognitive Software for network optimization, reports Africa Tech.
The proliferation of connected devices has led to an increase in spectrum requirements putting a strain on certain sites. Ericsson says it devised new algorithms that make ‘highly accurate predictions’ of future problems based on historical data and act on them to pre-emptively nip problems in the bud. MTN Benin is hoping to maximize the use of available spectrum to give MTN Benin’s subscribers the best possible experience through a network working at maximum efficiency, it said.
Ericsson’s AI-ML system will yield multi-faceted benefits, predicted Uche Ofodile, MTN Benin CEO. It works by anticipating network degradation and automatically taking corrective action. Ufodile is expecting to see the high throughput and efficient use of network resources to show up on his service level agreements.
“Ericsson has offered us the best available solution with its proactive AI and ML solutions, identifying the issue before it materialises,” said Ufodile, “By using Ericsson’s creative network systems we hope to provide a more individualized approach to network management.”
“Throughput degradation, one of the most common issues in network management, has been successfully solved thanks to our joint efforts with Ericsson,” said Ufodile. “The most crucial aspect we are looking for is speed, to service the increased use of connected devices and the corresponding rise in network traffic.”
Hossam Kandeel, Vice President and Head of Global Customer Unit MTN and Customer Unit MTN Africa at Ericsson Middle East and Africa said MTN Benin’s automation journey has had remarkably positive effects on end-user experience.
“[Our] highly accurate predictions anticipate throughput challenges and offering zero-touch corrective action,” said Kandeel. Ericsson’s goal is to run networks on data-driven, cognitive software decision executed by machines.