Streamlining Cloud-Native Orchestration

Deploying a 5G core network has traditionally required multiple tools to manage cloud infrastructures, virtualized resources, and containerized applications. OSM now provides a unified platform that integrates these layers seamlessly across multi-vendor environments. For example, a 5G core deployment—previously a complex, multi-step process—can now be executed in a streamlined workflow, from creating Kubernetes clusters to deploying and managing core network software. This reduces operational silos and lowers integration costs.

Moreover, not every operator needs to master every technical detail. OSM’s ability to abstract infrastructure complexity allows teams to focus on service innovation rather than system mechanics. For instance, launching a new enterprise SD-WAN service is now less about configuring infrastructure and more about quickly and efficiently delivering solutions to customers.

Smarter Automation with GitOps

Gone are the days of manual, step-by-step system configurations. OSM enables operators to define the desired state of their network services, and the system automatically maintains that state. Scaling an application is as simple as specifying the required number of instances—OSM takes care of the rest.

With integrated GitOps, every change—whether an upgrade or a configuration adjustment—is version-controlled. If something goes wrong, rolling back to a previous state is as easy as reverting a Git commit. This built-in safety net is invaluable, especially when deploying major network upgrades.

The new Git-based workflows also enhance continuous deployment with automatic reconciliation, reducing errors and accelerating rollouts. In a fast-moving industry where time-to-market is critical, this agility is a game-changer.

Scalability and Reliability for Multi-Site Deployments

OSM’s "profiles" feature makes deploying identical services across multiple clusters effortless. A telco rolling out an AI-driven customer support application to hundreds of edge locations can now do so with a single-click deployment, ensuring consistency and efficiency.

Additionally, OSM Rel SEVENTEEN introduces dynamic relocation of Kubernetes Deployment Units (KDUs) within a cluster—a key advantage for edge computing. Workloads can shift based on demand, allowing applications like content delivery networks to move closer to high-traffic areas, reducing latency and improving user experience.

Flexible Deployment Across Cloud Environments

Every telco has unique infrastructure requirements. OSM supports both public and private clouds, including major providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, as well as OpenStack-based private clouds. This flexibility allows operators to choose the best-fit infrastructure without vendor lock-in, ensuring seamless operations across diverse environments.

Accelerating Time-to-Market for New Services

The introduction of the OSM Network Functions Catalogue in Release SEVENTEEN simplifies onboarding and deploying new services. A process that once took months can now be completed in weeks. For instance, launching a new IoT connectivity service is significantly faster thanks to reusable Kubernetes blueprints based on Kubernetes Resource Modelling (KRM). This approach reduces complexity and empowers operators to innovate with minimal friction.

Strengthening Security and Compliance

Enhanced security measures in OSM include improved password recovery and comprehensive audit capabilities. If a security breach is suspected, operators can quickly analyze detailed audit logs to identify and mitigate risks. Additionally, sensitive data like passwords remain encrypted even in GitOps mode, aligning with industry best practices for telco network protection.

Optimizing Resource Efficiency in OSM Installations

OSM Rel SEVENTEEN also enhances the efficiency of key components like Kafka and MongoDB, reducing resource consumption. This translates to lower operational costs and a smaller carbon footprint—benefits that align with both financial and sustainability goals.

Deployment has never been easier, thanks to an ingress controller and upstream Helm charts for Prometheus and Grafana. Operators can now spend less time on setup and more time delivering value to customers.

Why OSM Matters

ETSI OSM Releases SIXTEEN and SEVENTEEN mark a significant leap in OSM’s journey in supporting telco cloud orchestration, enabling operators to streamline operations, enhance automation, and scale efficiently. Whether managing a nationwide 5G rollout or exploring edge computing innovations, OSM provides the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly complex digital landscape. With these advancements, telcos can innovate faster, deliver more reliable services, and operate with greater efficiency—paving the way for the future of cloud-native networks.