Sep 2026· IEEE Transactions on Mobile Computing· Vol 25, pp. 14352-14365· 3 citations· 33 references
Abstract
Future 6G networks are envisaged to tightly integrate communication, sensing, and computing, demanding real-time, intent-driven intelligence at the edge. While large language models (LLMs) excel in intent recognition and semantic reasoning, their application to real-time network lifecycle management at the edge is limited by heterogeneous application intents (APPIs), dynamic network conditions, and severe resource constraints. This paper proposes a novel lightweight LLM architecture, KGLlama-KD, that synergizes knowledge graphs (KGs) with knowledge distillation (KD) to enable intent-driven networking and enhance 6G edge intelligence. Specifically, a KG is constructed to formally describe the relationships among application scenarios, functional primitives, performance requirements within APPIs, and the correspondences between APPIs and network service requests (NSRs), thereby producing a structured intent training dataset. Building upon the Llama 3 foundation model, a two-phase optimization framework is designed to support lightweight edge deployment while preserving translation fidelity. The LLM is first fine-tuned with KG guidance and compressed via KD in the cloud, and then deployed on resource-constrained edge nodes to perform real-time, accurate, and efficient APPIs interpretation. Experiments validate that KGLlama-KD achieves 95% accuracy for APPI understanding, surpassing DeepSeek and Qwen by an average of 8%. The distilled model reduces inference latency by 60% compared to full-scale LLMs, fulfilling the sub-100 ms requirement for 6G latency-sensitive services.
The 6G era introduces unprecedented complexity in managing heterogeneous, large-scale, and dynamic network infrastructures. These challenges are addressed by the concept of Intent-Based Networking (IBN), which has emerged as a promising paradigm for autonomous network management, enabling users to express high-level objectives that are automatically translated and enforced by the network. However, current IBN solutions remain constrained by rigid structured specifications and limited assurance mechanisms. This paper presents an overview of PhD research leveraging Generative AI (GenAI), specifically Large Language Models (LLMs), to address three fundamental IBN challenges: (i) intent translation, (ii) intent assurance, and (iii) GenAI operations in IBN systems. We propose a set of novel frameworks validated on real 5G/6G testbeds. Most contributions are supported by demos, datasets, and open-source implementations, which are referenced in the design section of each contribution. This PhD positions GenAI as a key enabler for advancing autonomous and user-centric 6G.
As Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) enabled networks scale in size and complexity, monitoring and managing Service Function Chains (SFCs) under stringent latency and resource constraints becomes increasingly challenging. Although Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) is widely applied to SFC provisioning and Virtual Network Function (VNF) placement, enhanced network state monitoring is crucial to capture unexpected network conditions and guide DRL agents toward more adaptive decisions. In this context, Language Models (LMs) enable flexible, natural-language (NL)–based, query-driven network monitoring; however, directly processing complex multi-metric NL queries is computationally expensive and error-prone. This paper proposes an end-to-end (E2E) edge-based query translation pipeline that decomposes multi-metric NL queries into simpler single-metric sub-queries. Query decomposition is performed using a retrieval-augmented language model (RAG-LLM) and compared with a lightweight rule-based decomposition baseline. The resulting sub-queries are translated into Structured Query Language (SQL) using FLAN-T5. A cloud-only baseline, which directly translates NL queries to SQL without decomposition, is also evaluated. The results show that the rule-based edge pipeline achieves the lowest latency, reducing E2E latency by up to 78% compared to RAG-LLM and 18% compared to cloud execution under high workloads. Under increasing arrival rates for the largest workload, the rule-based edge pipeline maintains superior performance over cloud, reducing total E2E latency by 57% at $\lambda = 0.8$ . While RAG-LLM provides greater flexibility for unseen query patterns, both edge-based approaches achieve 100% NL2SQL accuracy with zero decomposition failures, outperforming the cloud-only baseline (95% accuracy).
Parisa Fard Moshiri, Xinyu Zhu, Poonam Lohan et al.· IEEE Transactions on Network...· 0 citations
The evolution towards 6G edge-cloud ecosystems demands autonomous, intent-based network management to handle unprecedented infrastructure complexity. While Large Language Models offer promising capabilities for translating high-level user intents into network configurations, current monolithic approaches suffer from cognitive overload, hallucinations, and a profound inability to safely execute low-level data plane mutations. To bridge this gap, we introduce Edgent, a novel framework that integrates hierarchical Agentic AI with Extended Berkeley Packet Filter technologies via the Model Context Protocol. Edgent utilizes a state-driven Supervisor, enhanced by Retrieval-Augmented Generation, to decompose abstract human intents into deterministic execution graphs and dynamically delegate tasks to domain-specific worker agents. We empirically validate the framework by autonomously deploying a distributed, in-kernel DDoS mitigation pipeline across scaled containerized topologies containing up to 85 nodes. Extensive evaluations demonstrate high orchestration reliability; notably, even heavily quantized Small Language Models (e.g., 4B parameters) achieve near-perfect zero-shot execution and 100% overall task completion through autonomous error recovery. Finally, latency and resource profiling confirm that the multi-agent framework can be efficiently driven by fully localized models compatible with orchestration tasks directly within resource-constrained edge environments, therefore this work positions Edgent as a pragmatic step toward the realization of zero-touch nextgeneration networks.
Raffaele Di Tommaso, G. Davoli, Pietro Spadaccino et al.· IEEE Conference on Network S...· 0 citations
Configuring 5G networks through standardized exposure interfaces—the Network Exposure Function (NEF) and the Common API Framework (CAPIF)—remains operationally burdensome, requiring manual navigation of 3 GPP parameter schemas, OAuth2 authentication, and live network state. This paper presents a modular, intent-driven architecture that translates natural language operator goals into schema-compliant NEF API configurations using a compact, locally deployed Large Language Model (LLM), Qwen3-4B (4 billion parameters). A deterministic pre-classification layer reserves LLM inference for semantically complex requests, while a six-stage pipeline produces near-deterministic, conflict-aware JSON output. Two complementary validation paths are provided: a Standard Mode with closed-loop Quality of Service (QoS) feedback via a NEF emulator, and a Free5GC Mode that validates the same translation logic against a Free5GC-based experimental environment with real user-plane traffic. Demonstration across five vertical scenarios confirms end-to-end correctness in both the emulated NEF environment and the Free5GC-based experimental environment.
Hao You, Chathura Galkandage, Naércio Magaia et al.· IEEE Conference on Network S...· 0 citations
Next-generation networks $(5 \mathrm{G} / 6 \mathrm{G})$ provide capabilities such as network slicing, enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC), and edge computing. However, configuring the related radio, core, slicing, and edge resources requires significant operational expertise. This work proposes an Intent-Based Networking (IBN) framework that combines Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models (LLMs), TMF921-compliant intent representation, and CAMARA APIs to simplify the definition and activation of network-sensitive vehicular services. In the proposed model, a Service Provider establishes a business agreement with a Network Operator, while the operator administrator defines service requirements through a conversational interface. These requirements are translated into machine-readable intents and mapped into network and edge orchestration actions. The framework is evaluated through a Teleoperated Driving (ToD) use case for autonomous vehicle repositioning. Results show that the intent translation and management pipeline introduces limited and repeatable overhead, while orchestration time is mainly affected by the underlying MANO/IaaS platform. The results indicate that combining IBN and CAMARA APIs can support flexible service preparation by operators and dynamic service consumption by applications.
Andrea Speranza, P. Giardina, Giacomo Bernini et al.· International Conference on...· 0 citations
Integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) is moving from proof-of-concept demonstrations to system-level deployment in sixth-generation (6G) networks. Because sensing and communication share hardware, spectrum, and waveform resources, ISAC design now involves many tightly coupled choices, including waveform selection, sensing algorithm setup, resource scheduling, and deployment planning. This design space is already too large to manage well through manual tuning or isolated optimizers. This article introduces the \textit{Agent Compiler}, a large language model (LLM)-enabled compilation layer that translates high-level engineering intent into complete and executable ISAC system configurations. The Agent Compiler works in four stages: intent parsing, task decomposition, policy graph synthesis, and infrastructure mapping. It produces a verifiable intermediate representation called the ISAC Policy Graph (IPG). A runtime engine then deploys the compiled configuration and supports closed-loop adaptation at three levels: fast parameter updates, partial recompilation of affected subgraphs, and full workflow recompilation. The core design principle is strict time-scale separation: the LLM handles slow-loop strategic decisions, while proven algorithms retain real-time control in the fast loop. A UAV-assisted disaster rescue example illustrates the full compilation process. We also discuss open issues, including compilation latency, output reliability, constraint verification, and pipeline security, to guide future research.
Lijie Zheng, Xudong Zhong, Baoquan Ren et al.· 0 citations
Known for his clear and elegant writing style, Bertsekas shaped fields from control and optimization to large-scale computation and artificial intelligence.
