Early Review of draft-ietf-ccamp-actn-optical-transport-mgmt-03
review-ietf-ccamp-actn-optical-transport-mgmt-03-opsdir-early-mishra-2025-07-01-00

Summary:

This document enhances the ACTN architecture as applied to optical networks by
introducing support for FCAPS. It considers which elements of existing IETF
YANG work can be used to solve existing scenarios and emerging technologies,
and what new work may be needed. In doing so, this document adds rich-detail
network management (RDNM) to the ACTN architecture. This enhanced architecture
may then be used to evolve networks from CORBA and MTOSI FCAPS interfaces to
IETF-based YANG and RESTful APIs.

This draft incorporates FCAPS to ACTN for optical network management.

Major issue:

I reviewed the latest version of the draft, however as FCAPS is a very general
and historical term.  I am not sure why NMS or any other acronym was used which
would be better suited for modern optical networks.

My recommendation from the review is to change from any reference to FCAPS and
use NMS.

This document should also focus on ACTN RDNM.

I read through IT-UT G.805, G.3060 and as the specifications are extremely
genera in nature I would recommend removal of tbt two references.

In the realm of modern optical networks, both FCAPS and Network Management
Systems (NMS) are relevant, but in distinct ways. FCAPS (Fault, Configuration,
Accounting, Performance, Security) is a framework or model that defines the key
functional areas of network management. It provides a structured approach for
managing telecommunication networks. While traditionally considered a legacy
model, its principles are still crucial for understanding and addressing the
various aspects of network management in optical networks. Network Management
Systems (NMS), on the other hand, are the actual systems or applications that
enable network operators to monitor, configure, and maintain communication
networks. NMS software tools implement the principles defined by frameworks
like FCAPS to perform these functions.

Which is more relevant today?
While FCAPS provides the theoretical foundation for network management, NMS are
the tangible tools that are actively used to manage modern optical networks.
NMS are evolving to incorporate new technologies like AI, machine learning, and
automation to handle the increasing complexity of optical networks.

Here's a breakdown of their relevance in modern optical networks:

NMS are more directly relevant for day-to-day operations: NMS tools provide the
actual functionality for tasks such as provisioning services, monitoring
network health, identifying and resolving faults, optimizing performance, and
ensuring security. FCAPS still provides a useful framework: Understanding FCAPS
generalizations helps  evaluate the capabilities and functions of different NMS
tools. It provides a standardized way to categorize and address various
management tasks within the NMS.

NMS implement FCAPS principles:

A robust NMS will provide functionality that aligns with the FCAPS framework,
ensuring comprehensive network management across all key areas.

In essence, FCAPS is the "what" of network management, while NMS is the "how".

Modern optical networks rely on NMS to efficiently manage their complex
infrastructure, but the underlying principles of FCAPS remain relevant in
guiding these management efforts.

Modern NMS for optical networks often incorporates advanced capabilities:

Automation: Automating tasks like routing, spectral assignment, and failure
management to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

AI/ML: Utilizing algorithms for predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and
real-time optimization of network performance.

Integration: Providing modular and open architectures to encompass multiple
layers, technologies, and vendors. Cloud-based solutions: Enabling remote
management, flexibility, and scalability.

Therefore, while FCAPS provides a very historical archaic conceptual model, NMS
are the indispensable tools for managing modern optical networks effectively
and efficiently.