DISH Network has selected IBM to automate its 5G network.
DISH will leverage IBM’s AI-powered automation and network orchestration software and services to bring 5G network orchestration to DISH’s business and operations platforms. DISH will use intent-driven orchestration, a software-powered automation process, and artificial intelligence (AI) to drive the operations of cloud-native 5G network architecture.

DISH has engaged IBM Global Business Services to use IBM Cloud Pak for Network Automation software with DISH’s 5G network architecture. Intent-based orchestration functionality is expected to help DISH network slicing possible and accelerate the creation and delivery of new services.

IBM Cloud Pak for Network Automation software is designed to provide insights, and use financial impact analysis to prioritize and manage issue resolution and network function. The ability to regulate the lifecycle, optimize the performance and customer-specific needs of each slice on the network is a key differentiator for DISH as it seeks to drive innovation for enterprises.

DISH plans to use network slicing to offer new use cases and industry vertical opportunities that are customized to each business and customer who leverages the private hybrid 5G network. Network slices – individual pieces that comprise said network – will be managed by customers to set service levels for each device appropriate to their use of the network.

“Our 5G build is unique in that we are truly creating a ‘network of networks,’ where each enterprise can custom-tailor a network slice or group of slices to achieve their specific business needs,” said Marc Rouanne, chief network officer, DISH Wireless.

“By utilizing IBM’s AI-powered automation and intent-driven network orchestration software, DISH can develop and deploy network offerings, applying advanced AI with IBM Watson and orchestration capabilities to help optimize network operations and performance,” Steve Canepa, managing director, IBM Global Communications Sector, said.