Amar Kapadia is the CEO and Co-Founder of Aarna Networks, a SaaS solutions provider that offers zero-touch edge and 5G services orchestration and management at scale. Amar has over 20 years of experience in networking, storage, server, and I/O technologies through marketing and engineering leadership positions at Mirantis, Emulex, Philips, and HP. Amar is the author of three books: "ONAP Demystified", "Understanding OPNFV" and "OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) Essentials," and holds an MS EE degree from the University of California, Berkeley. He lives in San Jose, California.
Happy New Year to all! Hope 2023 was a good year for you and 2024 will be even better.
For Aarna, we closed 2023 with several major accomplishments:
Pushed our flagship product, Aarna.ml Multi Cluster Orchestration Platform (AMCOP), into production
Established ourselves as #1 Private 5G orchestrator (successfully implemented E2E P5G solution in partnership with Druid and Airspan)
Established ourselves as #1 ML + O-RAN SMO through collaboration with NVidia and interop exercises at TIP, Digital Catapult, i14y, O-RAN Plugfests
Released a beta version of our cloud edge orchestration SaaS product, Aarna Edge Services (AES), initially targeting the Cloud Adjacent Storage use case followed by Cloud Adjacent GenAI (RAG), edge⇔multi cloud networking, and more
Recognized for contributions to Linux Foundation project, including Nephio (where we are the #3 contributor), Akraino, and 5G SuperBlueprint
Building on our edge ML work to establish ourselves as the #1 Edge ML orchestration company
Providing comprehensive cloud edge orchestration features to cover storage, networking, and GenAI/ML use cases
Expanding Nephio to a number of enterprise use cases by collaborating with other open source communities such as Kubernetes, OpenTofu, Ansible, LF AI & Data Foundation and more
If you are looking to join our journey (as a customer, investor, partner, advisor, employee, press/analyst, or other) please reach out to us.
Regards,
Amar & Sriram
Brandon Wick
Brandon Wick is a Senior Director of Marketing at Aarna Networks where he leads the organization on digital media, content and automated marketing, and communications strategy and execution. Prior to Aarna, he worked at the Linux Foundation for seven years building and growing open source projects and communities across the networking, cloud, and energy verticals. Before joining the Linux Foundation, he worked for multiple marketing agencies and an international NGO providing volunteer services around the globe. He holds a master’s degree in international relations and a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He resides in the Hudson Valley of New York with his wife and daughter.
Brandon Wick
Dec 13
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Getting Started in GenAI with a Private, Zero-Trust, Fully Managed LLM
In June of 2023, we announced a partnership with Predera to offer a packaged Generative AI solution to the industry — a private, and fully managed LLM with Predera’s AIQ MLOps Platform modern toolstack and Aarna.ml AMCOP for zero touch orchestration, configuration, management of upgrades/updates.
We’re now pleased to announce that NetFoundry has been added to this offering, bringing a zero trust security approach, built on Ziti (which comes in both open source OpenZiti or CloudZiti SaaS). Hosted in an Equinix data center, all connections are made using software-only zero trust endpoints, using outbound connections and ‘authenticate-before-connect’ making it ‘dark’ to the internet with no inbound ports. This provides a security posture beyond those of Managed Commercial solutions, with a user experience as simple as ‘it just being available on the internet’. Get the Solution Brief.
This significantly strengthens security and controls as unauthorized attackers have no network access by which to exploit the data. The solution also includes, built-in identity, authentication and authorization, least privilege access, granular visibility, and audit controls.
The GenAI offering also provides resources such as Intel Xeon 6338 processors and NVidia A100, hosted on Equinix Metal. Users can choose between LLMs like Llama, Dolly, or NeMo, support services for model fine-tuning and operations, a management dashboard, and now a zero trust security overlay.
Businesses today need to move fast and start taking advantage of the GenAI revolution while avoiding security threats and bogging down LLM adoption with overly-complex configurations. Get the Solution Briefto learn more and start building your own private, zero trust, fully managed, LLM for GenAI.
To better understand zero trust security, please see these assets from NetFoundry:
LF Networking’s ONE Summit Regional Day was hosted by Infosys, on Nov 30th, at their beautiful campus in Bengaluru, India. As part of this event, Sriram Rupanagunta was asked to present his thoughts around “AI for Networks and Networks for AI” as a panelist along with other technical leaders in this space. This was very much aligned with the event theme “AI powered Networks”. The summit also focused on various technical talks around LFN open source projects and how these are enablers for enterprise, 5G and other use cases. Yogendra Pal presented insights on “The LFN 5G Super Blueprint: Overview & AI Exploration”. We would like to thank LFN and Infosys for their invitation and congratulate them on hosting this great event to foster open source networking collaboration in India.
Insights on the “AI for Networks and Networks for AI” panel
In our experience, the use cases for AI in networking are mainly in the Troubleshooting and Optimization areas, which include examples such as RAN failure detection (using RAN data & weather data), and Slice optimization
Some of the challenges being faced are the availability of real life data for training the models, and converting POCs to production deployments (by proving the effectiveness of the predictions)
In terms of the Infrastructure requirements for running these AI workloads, in the recent past, our NVIDIA GTC demo was showcased, wherein RAN & AI workloads are orchestrated and switched on the same hardware with potential use cases for workload and compute optimization. This leads to another challenge in orchestrating the necessary infrastructure and switching the workloads, where the LFN projects such as Nephio will play a key role
In terms of trends using GenAI for the networking and for Enterprises, there is increasing usage of retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) for augmenting the model, which reduces the need for training the models using enterprise data or tweaking the LLMs
The format of the data, which is another challenge, needs standards such as ORAN (for providing data in a vendor-neutral form)
Insights on “The LFN 5G Super Blueprint: Overview & AI Exploration” presentation
The 5G Super Blueprint ecosystem and landscape are shown below, wherein various open source components have been part of continuous development in the orchestration space inclusive of Nephio, EMCO, and ONAP to name a few.
LF Networking has recently compiled a list of on-going and completed blueprints into a 5G Super Blueprint library, which helps to enable enterprise and Private 5G networks use cases across the ecosystem:
ORAN SMO Package - Combining multiple open sources into an E2E package
5G Public Cloud Edge Interface (Free5GC Core and UPF deployment orchestration to PCEI using EMCO, demonstrates network slicing led by Aarna.ml
5G Cloud Native Network (demonstrates the value of network slicing using video packet delivery)
In the LFN 5G Super Blueprint, there is ongoing effort towards enterprise to showcase the value of 5G for connectivity and enable various use cases. Aarna.ml has been a key contributor to this effort over the last 5 years providing the orchestration and management for several interactions and keynote demonstrations that have been shown live to thousands of community members. To see our latest contribution in this regard, refer to this presentation from the recent LFN D&TF event: 5G SBP: Orchestration of OAI Core and Amarisoft gNB with EMCO.
Orchestrating various components like O-RAN, 5G core, and edge applications requires an integration of management elements and a 5G strategy. Balancing performance with cost, and integrating multiple technologies into a unified system, are also key concerns.
To address these challenges, Aarna.ml offers AMCOP, an open source orchestration, lifecycle management, real-time policy, and closed loop automation platform for edge and 5G services.
Are you experiencing challenges pulling together a Private 5G Network? Aarna.ml expert team is here to help. Request a free consultation to discuss how to create value with Private 5G for your specific requirements and use cases or request a Free Trial of AMCOP today.
Namachi Sankaranarayanan
Namachi Sankaranarayanan, with over 20 years of experience in the software technology sector, specializes in Storage Area Network (SAN) and Network Management Systems (NMS). His career includes more than eight years in management roles and a year as a Consultant and Technical Advisor in Network Virtualization and Infrastructure Management. Skilled in Java, Product Development, Scrum, Network Function Virtualization, and Unix, Namachi is a highly proficient engineer. He holds a degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, demonstrating a strong educational foundation and establishing him as a seasoned expert in his field.
Namachi Sankaranarayanan
Dec 7
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Aarna.ml Unveils AMCOP 3.4: Advancing Edge Orchestration by fortifying Security, embracing Standards, and more
Aarna.ml today is announcing the release of Aarna.ml Multi Cluster Orchestration Platform (AMCOP) version 3.4, a pivotal milestone in advancing zero-touch edge orchestration. This release introduces a myriad of enhanced features, improvements, and additions, solidifying AMCOP's capabilities in managing complexity at scale.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
RBAC emerges as a linchpin in security, regulating network access based on organizational roles within Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) in the O-RAN architecture. RBAC not only adds an extra layer of security but also efficiently distributes superuser capabilities across administrators through meticulous privilege management.
O1 Functions and NACM
In O-RAN deployments, the sensitivity of O1 functions necessitates adherence to zero-trust principles. The O1 interface, enforcing confidentiality, integrity, authenticity, and least privilege access control through encrypted transport and the Network Configuration Access Control Model (NACM), thus ensur secure network operations. This standards-based mechanism restricts user access to predefined NETCONF operations and content, integrating authentication and authorization seamlessly.
OAuth 2.0 for Access Management
OAuth takes the reins in generating authorization tokens, managing access for distinct roles within the system. This introduction of an authorization layer, separating the client's role from the resource owner's, ensures secure access to protected resources. Utilizing Access Tokens issued by an authorization server, OAuth adheres to industry standards, providing a robust mechanism for secure resource access.
Keycloak for Authentication and Authorization
Keycloak, a robust open-source identity and access management solution, stands as the AAA provider for Aarna SMO. Within Keycloak's administrative realms, the roles, such as 'system-admin,' 'fault-admin,' and 'performance-admin,' define permissions, ensuring secure authentication and authorization for contemporary web applications.
NETCONF Access Control Model (NACM)
NACM, a standardized approach, ensures robust access control mechanisms within the NETCONF Server. Adhering to industry standards outlined in RFC8341, NACM introduces predefined access control groups aligning with distinct NETCONF client roles, prioritizing compatibility, reliability, and adherence to established industry practices.
In this release of AMCOP, ORAN Specified RBAC/Security Requirements as per O-RAN.WG11.Security-Requirements-Specification.O-R003-v06.00 and MPlane O-RU Device Requirements as per specification - O-RAN.WG4.MP.0-R003-v12.00 are met. The solution architecture, as depicted in Figure 1, showcases the implementation of RBAC with users, roles, domains, and policies.
Solution Architecture of the modules specific to RBAC requirements
In conclusion, AMCOP v3.4 not only addresses security requirements but also enhances orchestration capabilities. The adoption of industry standards and the meticulous integration of access control mechanisms underscore Aarna.ml commitment to providing users with a secure, interoperable, and globally accepted platform for network orchestration. For more details on device-level access requirements, refer to the O-RAN specifications - O-RAN.WG4.MP.0-R003-v12.00.
This release reaffirms Aarna.ml dedication to innovation, security, and the seamless orchestration of multiple network elements, further solidifying its position as a leader in the evolving landscape of network management and orchestration.
Amar Kapadia is the CEO and Co-Founder of Aarna Networks, a SaaS solutions provider that offers zero-touch edge and 5G services orchestration and management at scale. Amar has over 20 years of experience in networking, storage, server, and I/O technologies through marketing and engineering leadership positions at Mirantis, Emulex, Philips, and HP. Amar is the author of three books: "ONAP Demystified", "Understanding OPNFV" and "OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) Essentials," and holds an MS EE degree from the University of California, Berkeley. He lives in San Jose, California.
I was asked to speak at the recent IEEE Future Networks World Forum 2023 event, Nov 13 -15 in Baltimore, MD and hosted virtually on the topic of “Full Stack Automation in 5G & Beyond”. I‘d like to thank IEEE for their invitation and congratulate them on hosting another successful conference.
My talk was focused on orchestrating and automating Private 5G networks built on a foundation of open source projects. Private 5G is a core solution area for Aarna.ml and we've been building the underly architecture and orchestration and management elements for several years. Because no one vendor can do it all, we've been building partnerships across the open networking stack and ensuring that our assets are built on open source, integrated through APIs, and ready to deploy in production environments.
This blog represents a brief recap of my talk; you can also view the slides here.
Understanding Private 5G Networks
Private 5G represents a significant step forward in wireless technology, tailored specifically for business needs. Unlike public networks, it offers enhanced control, superior security, and the ability to be customized. Its strengths lie in its low latency, high bandwidth, and capacity to support numerous devices, making it well-suited for applications with demanding network requirements. Private 5G is a tool for businesses to elevate their operational capabilities, particularly in areas of data management and communication.
Private 5G Architecture using an AMCOP Orchestrator
Key Requirements for Private 5G Success
In order for Private 5G to achieve mass adoption, I believe it requires 3 things:
Zero Touch: Private 5G needs to be extremely easy to use
Cost Effective: Over time, private 5G needs to be in the <$0.50/sq. ft. CAPEX and <$0.20/sq. ft. OPEX range
Application Centric: Instead of network connectivity, Private 5G’s role is connectivity to edge apps
Open Source
We’ve found that many of the components required to build Private 5G Networks can be found in open source communities. Here is a sample of the communities we work with:
Linux Foundation Networking (LFN) Nephio with OpenTofu and Ansible for orchestration
Private 5G is not without its challenges. Orchestrating various components like RAN, 5G core, and edge applications requires a comprehensive management strategy. Balancing performance with cost, and integrating multiple technologies into a unified system, are also key concerns. To address these challenges, Aarna.ml offers AMCOP and AES.
AMCOP simplifies the orchestration of 5G network components and enhances lifecycle management and automation, aligning with the need for simplicity and reduced manual input. AES, a streamlined SaaS platform, reduces operational complexities and integrates with public cloud services, contributing to cost-effectiveness and supporting an application-focused approach. Together, AMCOP and AES offer robust solutions to make Private 5G networks manageable and financially viable.
Get In Touch
Are you experiencing challenges pulling together a Private 5G Network? Aarna.ml expert team is here to help. Request a free consultation to discuss how to create value with Private 5G for your specific requirements and use cases or request a Free Trial of AMCOP today.
Bhanu Chandra
Bhanu Chandra is a Senior Member of Technical Staff at Aarna Networks, a SaaS solutions provider that offers zero-touch edge and 5G services orchestration and management at scale. Prior to Aarna, he was Principal Engineer at Western Digital, a Member of Technical Staff at Aruba Networks, a Lead Engineer at NetScout systems, and an analyst at Cognizant Technologies. Bhanu holds M.Tech degree from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University. He lives in Bangalore, India.
Fault Management is an integral component of the O-RAN Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) framework, empowering network operators with sophisticated tools to detect, diagnose, and rectify network faults in RAN networks. O-RAN SMO's fault management suite is a critical enabler of network resilience and efficiency and is increasing in importance for network operators as they virtualize the RAN and adopt O-RAN standards.
With an emphasis on the O-RAN Alliance's open and standardized interfaces, fault management functions assure interoperability across diverse vendor equipment, which is vital for the integrity and consistency of O-RAN networks. O-RAN SMO enhances fault management through automation, which expedites the detection and diagnosis process, thereby diminishing network outages and optimizing operational expenditures. This level of automation in fault management workflows is a game-changer for network operators, fostering enhanced network availability.
Furthermore, fault management functions within the O-RAN SMO are vital for the reliability, availability, and security of O-RAN networks. It extends its capabilities to include root cause analysis and resolution, allowing network operators to delve into the origins of network issues and implement preventative measures. This provides a robust foundation for operators to swiftly manage and resolve network faults, ensuring an optimized network experience, and is crucial for the advancement and stability of O-RAN networks.
We encourage you to discover the full capabilities of O-RAN SMO's fault management and how it can transform your network operations. Learn more about O-RAN SMO and contact us for a free consultation.
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