Abstract
Network programmability is crucial for addressing the multiplicity and
heterogeneity of Network Services, the diversity of the underlying
infrastructure of Sixth Generation (6G) communication systems, and the
requirements for maximum efficiency. The programmability of a service
platform enables algorithmic network management by leveraging
contemporary software virtualization technologies. Moreover, network
programmability will abstract the essential network/service and resource
configuration, as well as the production and administration of policy
lifecycles, as the number of local breakouts (both public and private)
is anticipated to grow exponentially. Network programmability is the
central point of interest for Hexa-X, the European 6G flagship project,
which aims to facilitate the dynamic adaptation to changing network
situations and requirements for the most efficient use of available
resources. To explore such a critical enabler of futuristic mobile
networks, this article addresses the role of network and service
programmability and its impact on various aspects of 6G within the
context of Hexa-X. In order to accomplish this, the article begins by
discussing Hexa-X’s proposed service Management and Orchestration (M&O)
framework for 6G. Based on this framework, it identifies and explores in
greater detail the programmability of four primary processes in 6G:
expressing application and service requirements; service description
models and profiling; monitoring and diagnostics; and reasoning. Beyond
the scope of the Hexa-X, this article aims to serve as a foundation for
future research into network and service programmability in 6G.