Network Management Capabilities Research Articles

EFraS: Emulated framework to develop and analyze dynamic Virtual Network Embedding strategies over SDN infrastructure

The integration of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) into Network Virtualization (NV) significantly enhances network management, isolation, and troubleshooting capabilities. However, it brings forth the intricate challenge of allocating Substrate Network (SN) resources for various Virtual Network Requests (VNRs), a process known as Virtual Network Embedding (VNE). It encompasses solving two intractable sub-problems: embedding Virtual Machines (VMs) and embedding Virtual Links (VLs). While the research community has focused on formulating embedding strategies, there has been less emphasis on practical implementation at a laboratory scale, which is crucial for comprehensive design, development, testing, and validation policies for large-scale systems. However, conducting tests using commercial providers presents challenges due to the scale of the problem and associated costs. Moreover, current simulators lack accuracy in representing the complexities of communication patterns, resource allocation, and support for SDN-specific features. These limitations result in inefficient implementations and reduced adaptability, hindering seamless integration with commercial cloud providers. To address this gap, this work introduces EFraS (Emulated Framework for Dynamic VNE Strategies over SDN). The goal is to aid developers and researchers in iterating, testing, and evaluating VNE solutions seamlessly, leveraging a modular design and customized reconfigurability. EFraS offers various functionalities, including generating real-world SN topologies and VNRs. Additionally, it integrates with a diverse set of evaluation metrics to streamline the testing and validation process. EFraS leverages Mininet, Ryu controller, and OpenFlow switches to closely emulate real-time setups. Moreover, we integrate EFraS with various state-of-the-art VNE schemes, ensuring the effective validation of embedding algorithms.

The impact mechanism of entrepreneurial competency and entrepreneurial model matching on entrepreneurial performance

ABSTRACT From the perspective of matching, this paper explores the impact mechanism of entrepreneurial competency and entrepreneurial model matching on entrepreneurial performance. Then this paper uses cluster analysis and independent sample t-test to carry out the empirical analysis. The research results show the following relationship. (1) Entrepreneurs whose risk aversion psychology, entrepreneurial learning cognition, organizational management functions, and genetic network application capabilities are matched with survival-driven entrepreneurial models can improve the survival performance of new ventures. (2) Entrepreneurs whose risk propensity psychology, knowledge conversion cognition, strategic decision-making functions, and industrial network application capabilities are matched with the opportunity-driven entrepreneurial model, which can improve the survival and growth performance of new ventures. (3) Entrepreneurs’ self-potency psychology, technology transformation cognition, R&D innovation function, and network management capabilities are matched with the innovation-driven entrepreneurial model, which can improve the innovation performance of new ventures. Through empirical analysis, it was found that there were 22 matching samples, accounting for 61.11% of samples. There were 14 mismatched samples, accounting for 38.89% of samples, indicating a higher matching degree between entrepreneurial capability cluster and innovation-driven entrepreneurial model.

Load-aware dynamic controller placement based on deep reinforcement learning in SDN-enabled mobile cloud-edge computing networks

Software-defined networks (SDNs) can improve network resource utilization and optimize the performance of mobile cloud-edge computing networks (MECCNs) through unified and flexible network management. However, network traffic in MECCNs can change over time and space, which affects the performance of the control plane in an SDN. Further, an MECCN may require the temporary addition of network access points, further reducing the network management capabilities of the control plane. To ensure that the control plane can handle the constant changes in network traffic, adapt to dynamic changes in network access points, and provide continuous and efficient network management functions, this study focuses on the dynamic controller placement problem in SDN-enabled MECCNs. We study the deployment of a two-layer control plane and accordingly construct the corresponding delay, load balancing, and control reliability models. Next, we construct a joint optimization problem considering the developed delay, load balancing, and control reliability, and solve this problem using an algorithm based on the deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms other algorithms on a variable-node network.

Understanding Issues and Challenges of DFR Implementation in SDN Platform

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is an evolutionary networking paradigm that offers simplified and agile network configuration and management capabilities. However, embracing this new and futuristic paradigm requires the understanding of Digital Forensics (DF) limitations that it presents. Studies show that the dynamism of SDN architecture impedes the preservation of Potential Digital Evidence (PDE) during a Digital Forensic Readiness (DFR) process. Therefore, the identification and acquisition of viable PDE in SDN platforms largely depends on the thorough understanding of the issues and challenges affecting the application of DFR in SDN platforms. For this reason, this study leverages a case study research methodology to empirically underline the forensic limitations and provide level of specificity with which these limitations affect the DFR process. The results of the case study combined with existing literature are used to expose the issues and challenges in a typical SDN testbed. The knowledge acquired from the state-of-the-art with respect to conducting DFR in an SDN platform addresses the knowledge gap of understanding these limitations.

Security Attitude Prediction Model of Secret-Related Computer Information System Based on Distributed Parallel Computing Programming

In recent years, there has been an upward trend in the number of leaked secrets. Among them, secret-related computers or networks are connected to the Internet in violation of regulations, cross-use of mobile storage media, and poor security management of secret-related intranets, which are the main reasons for leaks. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the physical isolation and protection technology of classified information systems. Physical isolation is an important part of the protection of classified information systems, which cuts off the possibility of unauthorized outflow of information from the network environment. To achieve the physical isolation of the network environment and build a safe and reliable network, it is necessary to continuously improve the level of network construction and strengthen network management capabilities. At present, the realization of physical isolation technology mainly relies on security products such as firewall, intrusion detection, illegal outreach, host monitoring, and auditing. This study analyzes network security systems such as intrusion detection, network scanning, and firewall. Establishing a model based on network security vulnerabilities and making up for network security hidden dangers caused by holes are generally a passive security system. In a network, the leader of network behavior—human behavior—needs to be constrained according to the requirements of the security management system and monitoring. Accordingly, this study proposes a security monitoring system for computer information network involving classified computer. The system can analyze, monitor, manage, and process the network behavior of the terminal computer host in the local area network, to achieve the purpose of reducing security risks in the network system. Based on the evaluation value sequence, the initial prediction value sequence is obtained by sliding adaptive triple exponential smoothing method. The time-varying weighted Markov chain is used for error prediction, the initial prediction value is corrected, and the accuracy of security situation prediction is improved. According to the security protection requirements of secret-related information systems, a complete, safe, reliable, and controllable security protection system for secret-related information systems is constructed, and the existing security risks and loopholes in secret-related information systems are eliminated to the greatest extent possible. This enables the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of confidential data and information in the computer information system to be reliably protected.

Intelligence-Endogenous Networks: Innovative Network Paradigm for 6G

Feature applications envisioned in the 6G era, represented by holographic communication, full-sensing communication, intelligent transportation, and intelligent manufacturing in terms of virtual and physical integration, immersion, contextualization, and personalization, have placed high demands on the intelligentization of 6G networks. The current network operating mechanism based on rule-based algorithms is limited by rigid preset rules. It is difficult to adapt dynamically to constantly changing user needs and network environments. In order to enable the network to effectively accumulate and independently utilize the operating experience and realize the independent iterative evolution of network operation, management, and control capabilities, this article proposes the concept of the intelligence-endogenous network (IEN). The IEN aims to introduce knowledge graph and artificial intelligence technologies into networks to characterize, construct, learn, and apply the network's multidimensional subjective and objective knowledge. Based on the learned knowledge, an IEN can realize stereo perception, decision deduction, and dynamic adjustment, so the network can change as it needs for whatever new services we want. The article introduces the basic concepts, goals, and meanings of the IEN, together with its key principles and technologies, and illustrates how it innovatively responds to the current network's multifaceted challenges with an intuitive use case.

Structural Model of Adaptive Capabilities, Network Capabilities and Community Based Tourism Innovation in the Central Region of Thailand

This research aimed to study 1) the influence of community adaptive ability on innovation of community tourism inthe central region of Thailand 2) the influence of community adaptability on the capacity of managing the community-basedtourism network in the central region 3) the influence of network management ability on community tourism innovation in thecentral region and 4) to propose a structural model of community adaptability and network management capabilities withcommunity-based tourism innovation in the central region. The mixed methodology research between the quantitative researchusing the survey data from the questionnaire with 213 communities of community tourism network in the central region and thequalitative research using the in-depth interview method and focus group interview conducted with 5 informants wasimplemented. Structure Equation Model (SEM) was used for the data analysis. The results demonstrated that (1) the communityadaptability in the central region directly influenced community tourism innovation with an influence of 0.56 and indirectlyinfluenced through the management of the community-based tourism network with an influence of 0.66. The total influence was1.22. (2) Community adaptability directly influenced on the ability of the tourism network management in the central regionwith an influence of 0.62. (3) the ability to manage a network of communities direct influenced on community-based tourisminnovation in the central region with an influence of 0.68. Last but not least, (4) the structural model of adaptive capabilities andthe network management capability with community-based tourism innovation in the central region were consistent withempirical data based on the six harmonization indices with χ2 = 59.85 p-value = 0.08, χ2 / df = 0.55, GFI = 1.00, AGFI = 0.98,and RMSEA = 0.01 that met the acceptance criteria.

Networking capability: a systematic review of literature and future research agenda

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to scrutinize the existing literature and provide a comprehensive overview by compiling and synthesizing the dispersed body of knowledge in the networking capability (NC) literature stream. Therefore, this review study contributes to the research by presenting a summary of the NC complex construct.Design/methodology/approachThe authors have tried to cover the literature gap in the NC area through a systematic review.FindingsThe theoretical contributions of this study to the NC literature stream are fourfold. First, while critically reviewing existing definitions, the authors present an integrated definition of NC. Second, the authors delineate the conceptual boundary between NC and other similar capabilities. Third, the authors found that the focal firms’ NC consists of two key dimensions: network development capability (NDC) and network management capability (NMC). Fourth, they contribute to the literature by providing a set of suggestions for further research in the NC literature stream.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has some limitations, like other review studies. First, although the authors have tried their best to conduct a comprehensive literature search, they may have missed a study. Second, it should be noted that this study has confined itself to a particular stream of literature. Undoubtedly, in other streams, there will be issues similar to the concepts discussed in this study. The main purpose of this study is to integrate a series of studies that have a common theoretical foundation and fall within a particular literature stream. Although the focus of this study may be positive, it can be said that the deprivation of achievements from other similar streams is one of the limitations of this study. Third, another limitation of this study is the lack of verification of the conceptual framework derived from the literature that needs to be addressed in future research.Practical implicationsThis study suggests a set of practical implications for industrial managers. First, the authors summarize the firms’ capabilities needed to develop and manage networks in one single source. Based on the conceptual framework of this study, firms can develop managerial tools, technological options, checklists and questionnaires and monitor the status of NC in their surrounding network on an ongoing basis. Second, the present research shows that some NCs are more repetitive than others, and therefore, it can be said that managers should pay more attention to them. The critical NCs, such as determining network position, determining network size, partner selection and attraction, coordination, inter-firm knowledge sharing and conflict resolution, are included in this study. Third, the argument of this study that both NDC and NMC should be considered simultaneously can be thought of as an important practical implication. Although in terms of the network life cycle, NDC is required earlier than NMC, these two capabilities should be used in parallel. Managers should not expect network development to be perfect and then network management to begin; therefore, NMCs should be used during network development.Originality/valueResearch shows that most network studies focus more on network antecedents and outputs and less on processes and related capabilities. Some researchers have made few efforts to identify and scrutinize capabilities related to business relationships. In this context, IMP scholars have introduced NC to emphasize the network perspective. Despite the considerable conceptual and empirical richness, the existence of different nomenclatures and theoretical diversity in NC literature has led to conceptual ambiguity and a lack of consensus on this crucial complex construct.

Complex communication application identification and private network mining technology under a large-scale network

The emergence of the Internet has brought great convenience to people, changing the way of life in many fields, such as food, clothing, housing and transportation. With the increasing popularity of the Internet and the rapid development of network technology, the Internet has become the main communication tool and information sharing channel for people. Network users bring not only convenience but also great challenges to network. The purpose is to study the practicability of statistical protocol recognition methods in network environment and to develop new solutions based on the existing protocol recognition methods. Based on the method step by step to study the identification of a complex application (CA) problems, usability issues, put forward the solution, and the solution of complex application, puts forward a set of perfect CA identification and analysis framework, greatly improved the accuracy and efficiency of complex application, to more than 80%. While promoting the development of recognition technology, it solves problems and finally implements a recognition and analysis system for complex applications. The complex private network mining technology proposed in this paper solves many difficulties and challenges of CA identification and analysis in network environment and can effectively improve the network management capability of network operators.

SDN-Assisted DDoS Defense Framework for the Internet of Multimedia Things

The Internet of Things is visualized as a fundamental networking model that bridges the gap between the cyber and real-world entity. Uniting the real-world object with virtualization technology is opening further opportunities for innovation in nearly every individual’s life. Moreover, the usage of smart heterogeneous multimedia devices is growing extensively. These multimedia devices that communicate among each other through the Internet form a unique paradigm called the Internet of Multimedia Things (IoMT). As the volume of the collected data in multimedia application increases, the security, reliability of communications, and overall quality of service need to be maintained. Primarily, distributed denial of service attacks unveil the pervasiveness of vulnerabilities in IoMT systems. However, the Software Defined Network (SDN) is a new network architecture that has the central visibility of the entire network, which helps to detect any attack effectively. In this regard, the combination of SDN and IoMT, termed SD-IoMT , has the immense ability to improve the network management and security capabilities of the IoT system. This article proposes an SDN-assisted two-phase detection framework, namely SD-IoMT-Protector, in which the first phase utilizes the entropy technique as the detection metric to verify and alert about the malicious traffic. The second phase has trained with an optimized machine learning technique for classifying different attacks. The outcomes of the experimental results signify the usefulness and effectiveness of the proposed framework for addressing distributed denial of service issues of the SD-IoMT system.

Managing institutional diversity and structural holes: Network configurations for recombinant innovation

Research linking interorganizational networks to innovation has emphasized the knowledge recombination benefits associated with spanning structural holes and crossing institutional boundaries. However, network research has also highlighted that, while structural and institutional separation may provide increasing levels of knowledge diversity, this heterogeneity does not necessarily translate into novel knowledge re-combinations. Our study addresses these issues by uncovering which network configurations are responsible for novel knowledge recombination and how firms develop a capability at managing diversity through a qualitative study undertaken in the European motorsport industry. The findings show that motorsport companies embark on two different network configurations which allow for unique recombination processes and outcomes. This also underlines the development of three overarching network management capabilities which contribute to managing diversity and knowledge integration efforts. Our research, therefore, provides a deeper understanding of how firms may configure their networks for recombinant innovation and the role of agency in mobilizing and managing diverse knowledge towards innovation.

SFSH: a novel smart factory SDN-layer handoff scheme in 5G-enabled mobile networks

A smart factory network integrates various wireless networks to provide administrators with advanced factory network management capabilities and optimized services. Supporting smooth handoff management is an important issue in network architecture. Existing handoff management protocols are not sufficient to ensure handoff support in smart factories. This work was conducted to achieve the agility required by the smart factory network. The Smart Factory SDN-layer Handoff (SFSH) technique is proposed to guarantee Quality of Service (QoS) by supporting efficient handoff of devices in a smart factory. We proposes the SDN framework called SFSH for smart factory and a handover algorithm considering and the Received Signal Strength (RSS) and speed for SFSH. Through simple simulation, the SDN framework can flexibly cope with the conditions required by the smart factory, and it can be seen that the performance of SFSH considering RSS is improved over the existing handover process. SFSH uses the location and handoff signaling-delay information of devices in the factory to support mobility management and improve handoff performance in a wireless network environment. The sensitivity of the link layer and network layer is analyzed for handoff performance. Theoretical analysis shows that SFSH works better performance than other solutions.

Transfer Learning for Tilt-Dependent Radio Map Prediction

Machine learning will play a major role in handling the complexity of future mobile wireless networks by improving network management and orchestration capabilities. Due to the large number of parameters that can be monitored and configured in the network, collecting and processing high volumes of data is often unfeasible or too expensive at network runtime, which calls for taking resource management and service orchestration decisions with only a partial view of the network status. Motivated by this fact, this paper proposes a transfer learning framework for reconstructing the radio map corresponding to a target antenna tilt configuration by transferring the knowledge acquired from another tilt configuration of the same antenna, when no or very limited measurements are available from the target. The performance of the framework is validated against standard machine learning techniques on a data set collected from a 4G commercial base stations. In most of the tested scenarios, the proposed framework achieves notable prediction accuracy with respect to classical machine learning approaches, with a mean absolute percentage error below 8%.

Self-Optimizing Optical Network With Cloud-Edge Collaboration: Architecture and Application

As an important bearer network of the fifth generation (5G) mobile communication technology, the optical transport network (OTN) needs to have high-quality network performance and management capabilities. Proof by facts, the combination of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and software-defined networking (SDN) can improve significant optimization effects and management for optical transport networks. However, how to properly deploy AI in optical networks is still an open issue. The training process of AI models depends on a large amount of computing resources and training data, which undoubtedly increases the carrying burden and operating costs of the centralized network controller. With the continuous upgrading of functions and performance, small AI-based chips can be used in optical networks as on-board AI. The emergence of edge computing technology can effectively relieve the computation load of network controllers and provide high-quality AI-based networks optimization functions. In this paper, we describe an architecture called self-optimizing optical network (SOON) with cloud-edge collaboration, which introduces control-layer AI and on-board AI to achieve intelligent network management. In addition, this paper introduces several cloud-edge collaborative strategies and reviews some AI-based network optimization applications to improve the overall network performance.

Network management in emergent high-tech business contexts: Critical capabilities and activities

Due to their inherent uncertainty, emerging high-tech business fields require a unique set of network management capabilities. Drawing from the dynamic capabilities literature and the networking capability literature, we develop a framework for network management in such environments. The framework consists of three interrelated capabilities – context handling, network construction, and network position consolidation. A longitudinal case study of a start-up company in the smart energy sector validates and provides an illustrative understanding of the three capabilities. The findings identify how they are enacted through a portfolio of activities, providing a microfoundational insight into how a focal actor in an entrepreneurial and explorative manner navigates and manages a business field in the making. Our research contributes a novel conceptualization of network management capabilities with an explicit focus on attracting, establishing and managing relationships in the complex and uncertain environment of emerging high-tech fields. In addition, our research offers guidance to managers with respect to the capabilities they need to galvanize and coalesce actors in an emerging business network.

Understanding the Effect of Network Management Capability on Innovation: A Multi-path Model

Past research revealed that inter-organizational networks play an essential role for innovation. In particular, network management capabilities have been found to essentially contribute to the innovation success of corporate actors. However, the concrete causal mechanisms that transmit the effect of network management capabilities to innovation performance are still under-explored. To address this gap, we develop a theoretical mediation model by integrating the dynamic capabilities view, network resource theory and perspectives of network agency. We first argue that network attributes allow firms to access knowledge resource benefits and thus contribute to innovation performance. Second, we hypothesize that firms are able to overcome constraints associated with the development of specific network attributes by the deployment of two different types of organizational routines – those that focus on discrete relationships and those that address firms’ overall network portfolio. The model was tested on data from the largest network of German municipal energy providers comprising 84 member firms. The results largely support our hypotheses in indicating that portfolio management capability’s influence on innovation is mediated by knowledge reach and richness in the network, relationship management capability’s effect by knowledge richness, while knowledge receptivity has no significant effect on product innovation performance.

The impact of distance on headquarters’ network management capabilities

PurposeThe ability of an organisation’s headquarters (HQ) to bring value to and manage a globally dispersed multinational enterprise has been questioned in the existing literature. The purpose of this paper is to suggest that HQ-subsidiary distance is an important factor that affects such ability; this report also investigates the impact of distance on the HQ’s network management capabilities in the context of a global organisation’s evolution.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, a single company was chosen to take part in a retrospective, longitudinal case study that highlighted two embedded product cases. The concept of distance was viewed as a variety of distance dimensions existing between the HQ and its subsidiaries.FindingsThe results indicated that distance impacted the effectiveness of the HQ’s network management capabilities by affecting HQ-subsidiary interaction and, consequently, shaping HQ’s knowledgeability about the subsidiaries’ operations. Moreover, the results suggested that the impact of such distance may shift from positive to negative over the course of a global organisation’s evolution.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough this study was explorative, some generalisability to industrial-goods companies of Scandinavian origin that have transferred activities to their owned subsidiaries may be expected. Further replication of the study using multiple case companies across various industries and countries is desirable.Originality/valueThis work extends the understanding of technological distance, sheds light on the conditions necessary for the HQ of a globally networked organisation to engage in value creation in the context of its evolution and contributes to the overall appreciation of distance as a factor that comprises multiple dimensions.

Analysis of dynamic capabilities for spectrum sharing in the citizens broadband radio service

This paper seeks to identify and analyze the sources of value creation and capture by key stakeholders in the new Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) three tier spectrum sharing framework introduced by the US President's Council of Advanced Science & Technology. More flexible and dynamic use of the 3.5 GHz spectrum aims to increase the efficiency of spectrum use in delivering fast growing and converging mobile broadband and media services while paving the way to innovations in technology and business models. In this paper, we focus on key stakeholders' capability to deal with combined internal and external resources and capabilities in doing business, referred to as dynamic capability. Spectrum sharing, introducing a rapid change in the technology and business environments, requires dynamic capabilities from spectrum offering, spectrum utilization, and spectrum management perspectives. We focus on defining key CBRS functional domains and identifying their key antecedents, elements, and outcomes. The analysis highlights the key role of the regulator in creating a sharing framework with incentives for all the key stakeholders, with different operational and business requirements, and enabling scaling ecosystem. Increased system dynamics in spectrum sharing will introduce a need for big data analytics, near real time network management capabilities and low cost third tier general authorized access radios, leveraging dominant technology ecosystems. This study provides viewpoints for stakeholders about additional ingredients and actions, which may be relevant to promote spectrum sharing in the form of the CBRS. The concept of dynamic capabilities was found useful to analyze the sources of competitive advantage regarding CBRS spectrum sharing.

Solution providers’ strategic capabilities

PurposeDrawing on the resource-based view of the firm, this study aims to analyze solution providers’ strategic capabilities that facilitate above-average returns.Design/methodology/approachThe study applies a qualitative comparative case method. In addition to an extensive set of secondary data, the results are based on interviews with 35 executives from nine leading industrial solution providers, their strategic customers and suppliers. The analyzed solution providers were identified based on quantitative survey data.FindingsBy observing six distinctive resources and three strategic business processes, the present study identifies seven strategic capabilities that occur in different phases of solution development and deployment: fleet management capability, technology-development capability, mergers and acquisitions capability, value quantifying capability, project management capability, supplier network management capability and value co-creation capability.Research limitations/implicationsThe study develops a generic model for the strategic capabilities of servitization. Application of the developed model to different contexts would further validate and enhance it.Practical implicationsManagers can use the developed model to benchmark, identify, build and manage solution providers’ strategic capabilities and associated practices.Originality/valueThe study develops a valuable conceptual model based on the comparative case data. Case firms were selected for the study based on a representative quantitative data set. The results were verified and triangulated with external data.

Unlocking the magic in successful tourism destination marketing: the role of sensing capability

ABSTRACTTourism destinations are facing an increasingly competitive environment, and the need to offer a compelling visitor experience is intense. However, destinations are hindered by the fragmented nature of their governance structure, with a disparate group of actors from service providers to local government agencies involved. The purpose of this study is to investigate how the tourism destination can respond effectively to changing market trends and develop a shared vision for the destination among the various actors. The resource-based view (RBV) of the firm perspective is adopted to identify the role of network management capabilities, which facilitate the coordination of actors needed to ensure destination efficacy, thereby addressing a lack of scholarly attention to marketing capability in the tourism destination. The empirical context is set in Killarney, Ireland’s most enduring and popular tourism destination. The findings point to the presence of a dynamic destination sensing capability in Killarney, which is driving a market-sensing capability and orchestration capability. This investigation provides important insight into how a successful tourism destination is able to sustain the magical ingredient of tourist engagement over two centuries.