BT is undertaking a significant evolution by morphing its network into a programmable platform, diverging from its previous approach of dictating network services. Alex Healing, distinguished engineer and research principal at BT, highlights that AI has been a part of BT’s operations for decades. However, recent advancements in GenAI and LLMs are poised to reshape the network into a more flexible, dynamic, and on-demand platform. The core theme is the programmability of BT’s network, achieved through the incorporation of software, open APIs, advanced telemetry, and automation. This move aims to enhance network flexibility, allowing customers to access real-time services as needed. This transformation is expected to not only amplify BT’s own capabilities but also enable third-party product innovation atop the network.
Programmable Network Transformation
BT’s network transformation emphasizes AI-enhanced automation and programmability, reflecting broader industry trends toward cloud-centric solutions. The concept of “softwareification of the network” underscores this shift, indicating an industry-wide move toward cloud and software-based network services. In executing this transformation, BT has integrated software and open APIs deeply into its network. Advanced telemetry provides real-time data, driving more efficient and dynamic operations. Automation tools have been implemented to manage routine tasks, thereby freeing up human capital for more critical decision-making processes. The result is a highly flexible and customer-responsive network, capable of adapting to varying demands efficiently.
The incorporation of these technologies allows BT to not only improve its own service offerings but also to provide a robust platform for third-party development. Through this programmable network, innovators can develop applications and services directly atop BT’s infrastructure, facilitating a broader ecosystem of technological advancements. This shift from a static service model to a more dynamic platform indicates BT’s intent to stay ahead in the competitive telecommunications landscape. BT’s efforts are part of a larger trend seen across the industry, where traditional telecommunication companies are pivoting toward software-driven, cloud-based network models to maintain relevance and competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
Balancing Automation with Human Oversight
Even though the long-term aim is network autonomy, BT intends to maintain a “human-in-the-loop” approach, particularly in critical decision-making processes such as network operations and cybersecurity. This strategy mirrors the practices of industry peers like Verizon, ensuring that while AI aids in efficiency and innovation, human oversight mitigates unwanted effects and ensures reliability. An important aspect of this balanced strategy is the expanded role of AI in network security. BT employs AI to develop detailed knowledge graphs of cyber threats, while human analysts remain responsible for conclusive decisions.
Launching cutting-edge AI, BT still opts to keep human oversight central to critical operations to balance innovation with reliability and security. This human-in-the-loop approach safeguards BT from potential pitfalls inherent in a fully autonomous system. Even with substantial automation, the essential human decision-making component ensures that any anomalies or outliers are carefully considered and managed. This strategy also fosters trust among BT’s clients, who can be assured that their network services are not only advanced but also reliable and secure. As AI continues to evolve and improve, balancing these dual imperatives of innovation and oversight will be critical for BT and similar companies to maintain their leadership in the industry.
AI and Network Security
Despite aiming for full network autonomy in the long run, BT is committed to a “human-in-the-loop” strategy, especially in key decision areas like network operations and cybersecurity. This reflects the practices of industry leaders such as Verizon, where AI boosts efficiency and innovation, but human oversight remains crucial to avoid potential pitfalls and maintain reliability. For instance, BT leverages AI to create comprehensive knowledge graphs of cyber threats, while human analysts make final decisions.
Even with advanced AI, BT prioritizes human oversight in critical operations to strike a balance between innovation and security. This approach prevents the risks associated with a fully autonomous system. Human intervention ensures that any anomalies or outliers are carefully scrutinized and managed. This dual approach also instills confidence in BT’s clients, reassuring them that their network services are both cutting-edge and dependable. As AI continues to evolve, maintaining this balance of innovation and human oversight will be essential for BT and similar companies to stay ahead in the industry.
