Cloud-native automation framework: redefining network automation for the cloud-native era

This report discusses the necessity for vendors to transition from traditional imperative and script-based automation solutions towards a new model for automating cloud-native networks, one that is declarative and model-driven. We introduce a framework for cloud-native automation (CNA) which places Kubernetes (K8s) and open-source components and methodologies, such as configuration as data (CaD), GitOps and K8s operators, at its core. This is the new cloud-native automation paradigm that advanced communications service providers (CSPs) and pioneering vendors are envisioning will reshape the network cloud automation market over the next decade.

The report also provides insights and recommendations for a range of vendor categories providing automation solutions for cloud-native networks.

Key questions answered in this report

• What are the key operator requirements for automating cloud-native networks that vendors should take into consideration when building their solutions?
• How are cloud-native networks changing the responsibilities for automation decisions within operator organisations?
• What does the emerging CNA framework look like? What are its main principles, features and components?
• How will CNA impact the network cloud automation market? What are the opportunities and threats for vendors?

Key drivers and requirements for cloud-native automation¹

¹ Network function virtualisation (NFV); management and orchestration (MANO).