Intent-based Networks: An Industrial Perspective

Abstract

Intent-based Networks (IBNs) present a paradigm shift in conventional networking by allowing users to express what is required from a network, while internally resolving the detailed steps necessary to achieve that goal. Consequently, not only human effort, but chances of errors are also reduced. Moreover, once an intended state is achieved, IBN ensures that it is maintained unless a user requests otherwise. In this paper, we present an industrial perspective of IBN. In particular, we identify several use cases in the context of industrial networks that can potentially benefit from IBN. Subsequently, we propose an architecture of IBN, and elaborate how the different use cases can be realized using it. In addition, we present a case study on the use of intents with a widely used framework. Although, there still are a few challenges along the IBN way, when addressed, IBN can bring down an organization's expenses while improving its efficiency and reliability at the same time.