Network X
14 - 16 October 2025
Paris Expo Porte de VersaillesParis, France

Bandwidth Optimisation Through Machine Learning

In today's fiber-driven connectivity landscape, network operators face unprecedented challenges in managing bandwidth resources efficiently. As AI applications, cloud services, and data-intensive workloads continue to proliferate, traditional static bandwidth allocation methods are proving inadequate. Machine learning technologies are emerging as the definitive solution for optimizing fiber network performance, enabling dynamic resource allocation that responds intelligently to changing demands.

The Bandwidth Challenge in Modern Fibre Networks

Exponential Traffic Growth

The fiber broadband industry isn't just growing—it's transforming. With multi-gigabit speeds becoming the new standard and AI applications driving unprecedented bandwidth requirements, network operators face mounting pressure to maximize their infrastructure investments. AI applications are creating significant new demands on network resources that require intelligent management solutions.

The proliferation of AI bandwidth demands means enterprises must adopt robust connectivity solutions capable of supporting dynamic data transfers. Traditional bandwidth allocation methods that worked for predictable traffic patterns are increasingly ineffective against the volatile, bursty nature of AI workloads.

Diverse Application Requirements

Modern fiber networks must simultaneously support an expanding range of applications with vastly different requirements:

  • Latency-sensitive applications like real-time AI processing, remote surgery, and autonomous vehicle communications demand consistent, low-latency performance

  • Bandwidth-intensive applications such as 8K video streaming, cloud-based gaming, and large dataset transfers require substantial throughput

  • IoT deployments generate millions of small data packets that collectively strain network resources

This diversity creates complex QoS challenges that static allocation methods cannot efficiently address.

Resource Allocation Complexities

Network operators traditionally overprovisioned bandwidth to handle peak demands, leading to significant resource inefficiencies during normal operations. The financial implications are substantial:

  • Unnecessary CAPEX for underutilized capacity

  • Increased operational costs for managing oversized infrastructure

  • Delayed ROI on network investments

  • Competitive disadvantages from higher service costs

Machine learning offers a path to more intelligent resource allocation that dynamically adjusts to actual needs.

Machine Learning Foundations for Network Optimisation

Supervised Learning Applications

Supervised learning algorithms are transforming how networks classify and manage traffic patterns. By training on labeled datasets of network traffic, these systems can:

  • Identify application signatures with high accuracy

  • Predict bandwidth requirements based on historical patterns

  • Detect anomalies that may indicate security threats or performance issues

Supervised learning techniques have demonstrated significant improvements in FTTH bandwidth allocation, achieving maximum bandwidth, lower delay, less loss of packets and more fairness in the network.

Unsupervised Learning Approaches

Unsupervised learning algorithms excel at discovering hidden patterns in network traffic without predefined labels:

  • Traffic clustering identifies natural groupings of similar network flows

  • Dimensionality reduction techniques simplify complex traffic patterns for more efficient analysis

  • Anomaly detection identifies unusual behavior that may indicate emerging issues

These approaches are particularly valuable for adapting to new applications and traffic patterns that weren't present in training data.

Reinforcement Learning Innovations

Reinforcement learning represents the cutting edge of network optimization, creating systems that learn optimal policies through interaction with the network environment:

  • Dynamic QoS policies that adapt to changing conditions

  • Real-time resource allocation decisions that maximize overall network utility

  • Predictive congestion management that prevents bottlenecks before they occur

Reinforcement learning algorithms are particularly effective at handling real-time fluctuations of traffic and various Quality of Service (QoS) needs that traditional methods struggle to address.

Case Study: TeleOptima's ML Traffic Management Platform

Implementation Architecture

TeleOptima's platform exemplifies the integration of edge and core ML components for comprehensive traffic management:

  • Edge devices perform real-time traffic classification and initial prioritization

  • Core systems handle complex pattern analysis and policy optimization

  • Distributed telemetry provides comprehensive visibility across the network

This architecture enables microsecond-level decisions at the edge while maintaining network-wide optimization through centralized intelligence.

Performance Outcomes

Implementation results demonstrate the tangible benefits of ML-driven optimization:

  • Improvement in peak-hour bandwidth utilization

  • Reduction in congestion-related service degradation

  • Decrease in customer-reported performance issues

These improvements were achieved without additional infrastructure investment, effectively increasing the capacity of existing fiber deployments.

Scalability Considerations

TeleOptima's platform addresses scalability through:

  • Hierarchical model deployment that distributes computational load

  • Incremental learning capabilities that adapt to network growth

  • Efficient model compression techniques that reduce resource requirements

These features ensure the solution remains effective as networks expand to meet growing demands.

Case Study: NetAI's Predictive Capacity Planning System

Forecasting Methodology

NetAI's system leverages multiple data sources to create highly accurate capacity forecasts:

  • Historical traffic patterns analyzed at multiple time scales

  • Seasonal variations identified through decomposition techniques

  • External factors incorporated through multivariate analysis

This comprehensive approach enables operators to anticipate capacity needs with unprecedented accuracy.

Capacity Optimisation Framework

The system optimizes capacity planning through:

  • Just-in-time provisioning recommendations that minimize idle capacity

  • Targeted upgrade suggestions that address specific bottlenecks

  • Risk-weighted scenarios that account for forecast uncertainty

These capabilities transform capacity planning from a periodic guesswork exercise to a continuous, data-driven process.

Investment Planning Integration

NetAI's platform directly connects network performance to financial outcomes:

  • CAPEX deferral opportunities identified through utilization optimization

  • ROI acceleration through prioritized investment in high-impact areas

  • Budget allocation guidance based on predicted demand patterns

This integration helps operators maximize the financial return on their fiber infrastructure investments.

Case Study: OptiFibre's QoS Enhancement Platform

Application Classification Engine

OptiFibre's platform uses advanced ML techniques to identify applications with high precision:

  • Deep packet inspection enhanced by neural network classification

  • Behavioral analysis that identifies applications by traffic patterns

  • Continuous learning that adapts to new applications and protocols

This precise classification enables truly application-aware network management.

Dynamic Prioritisation System

The platform implements sophisticated prioritization based on:

  • Application requirements (latency sensitivity, bandwidth needs)

  • Business priorities (revenue impact, customer tier)

  • Current network conditions (available capacity, congestion levels)

This multi-dimensional approach ensures optimal resource allocation across competing demands.

User Experience Metrics

OptiFibre correlates network performance with actual user experience:

  • Quality of Experience (QoE) models that predict user satisfaction

  • Application performance indicators specific to each service type

  • Continuous feedback loops that refine optimization strategies

These metrics ensure that technical improvements translate to tangible user benefits.

Implementation Strategies for Network Operators

Data Collection Requirements

Successful ML implementation begins with comprehensive data collection:

  • Network telemetry from multiple layers (physical, transport, application)

  • Historical performance metrics with sufficient granularity

  • Contextual information about network events and changes

AI and digital twins for telecom network design and optimization are proven tools to support network design, capacity planning and quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE) modeling.

Model Selection Framework

Operators should select ML models based on:

  • Specific use cases and optimization objectives

  • Available data quality and quantity

  • Computational resources for training and inference

  • Explainability requirements for operational teams

This framework ensures that the selected models align with business needs and technical constraints.

Deployment Best Practices

Successful deployment follows established best practices:

  • Phased implementation starting with non-critical network segments

  • Parallel operation with existing systems during validation

  • Comprehensive monitoring to verify performance improvements

  • Gradual expansion as confidence and expertise grow

These approaches minimize risk while maximizing the chances of successful implementation.

Technical Architecture for ML-Driven Optimisation

Edge Computing Components

Edge deployment brings intelligence closer to traffic sources:

  • Real-time classification and decision-making at network edges

  • Distributed ML inference engines optimized for low latency

  • Local policy enforcement with centralized coordination

This architecture minimizes latency for time-sensitive decisions while maintaining global optimization.

Centralised Analytics Platform

Centralized systems handle complex analysis and coordination:

  • High-performance computing resources for model training

  • Big data infrastructure for historical analysis

  • Visualization tools for network operators and planners

These capabilities enable sophisticated analysis that wouldn't be feasible at the network edge.

Integration Interfaces

Successful ML systems integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure:

  • Standardized northbound APIs for management systems

  • Southbound interfaces for network element control

  • Cross-vendor compatibility through open standards

These interfaces ensure that ML solutions enhance rather than disrupt existing operations.

ROI Analysis of ML Bandwidth Optimisation

CAPEX Deferral Benefits

ML optimization delivers significant CAPEX benefits:

  • Improvement in capacity utilization extends infrastructure lifespan

  • More accurate forecasting prevents premature upgrades

  • Targeted enhancements address specific bottlenecks instead of wholesale upgrades

These benefits directly improve the financial performance of network investments.

OPEX Reduction Opportunities

Operational savings include:

  • Reduced manual intervention through automated optimization

  • Lower power consumption through more efficient resource utilization

  • Decreased troubleshooting costs through predictive maintenance

These savings contribute directly to improved profit margins.

Revenue Enhancement Potential

ML optimization also creates revenue opportunities:

  • Premium service tiers with guaranteed performance

  • Dynamic pricing models based on actual resource consumption

  • Improved customer satisfaction leading to reduced churn

These opportunities transform optimization from a cost-saving measure to a revenue driver.

Overcoming Implementation Challenges

Data Quality Issues

Data challenges require systematic approaches:

  • Data validation and cleansing pipelines to ensure quality

  • Synthetic data generation to address gaps in historical records

  • Robust handling of missing or inconsistent information

These techniques ensure that ML models have reliable foundations.

Model Accuracy Considerations

Maintaining model accuracy requires:

  • Regular retraining to adapt to changing network conditions

  • Performance monitoring to detect model drift

  • Ensemble approaches that combine multiple models for greater robustness

These practices ensure that models remain effective over time.

Operational Integration Hurdles

Successful integration addresses:

  • Workflow modifications to incorporate ML insights

  • Staff training on new tools and capabilities

  • Change management to build trust in ML-driven decisions

These considerations are often more challenging than technical implementation.

Vendor Selection Criteria for ML Solutions

Algorithm Transparency Requirements

Operators should prioritize transparency in ML solutions:

  • Explainable AI capabilities that clarify decision rationales

  • Visibility into model inputs and weightings

  • Validation frameworks to verify model performance

These features build trust and facilitate regulatory compliance

Integration Capability Assessment

Evaluation should include integration considerations:

  • API compatibility with existing systems

  • Data format standardization

  • Deployment flexibility across diverse environments

These factors determine how smoothly solutions will integrate into operations.

Support and Evolution Roadmap

Long-term success depends on vendor commitment:

  • Continuous learning capabilities that improve over time

  • Feature development aligned with emerging needs

  • Partnership approach to solving unique challenges

These elements ensure that solutions remain valuable as requirements evolve.

Measuring Success: KPIs for ML Bandwidth Optimisation

Network Performance Metrics

Success should be measured through concrete improvements:

  • Bandwidth utilization efficiency across time periods

  • Congestion frequency and duration reduction

  • Latency stability under varying load conditions

These metrics directly reflect the technical benefits of optimization.

Operational Efficiency Indicators

Operational improvements include:

  • Reduced manual interventions for capacity management

  • Faster troubleshooting through predictive analytics

  • More accurate capacity forecasting and planning

These indicators demonstrate the operational value of ML solutions.

Business Impact Measurements

Ultimate success appears in business outcomes:

  • Customer satisfaction improvements

  • Reduced churn related to performance issues

  • Revenue per bit improvements through optimization

These measurements connect technical improvements to business results.

Register Now

Connect with leading machine learning solution providers for fibre bandwidth optimisation at Network X 2025, taking place October 14-16 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Register now for the AI & Machine Learning Forum and Technical Demonstrations to discover how intelligent algorithms are transforming network capacity planning and performance management.