Autonomous networks are rapidly moving from a long-term industry vision to a practical priority for telecom operators. As networks become more complex, distributed, and software-driven, traditional operational models based on manual processes and isolated automation are becoming increasingly difficult to scale.
The TM Forum autonomous networks levels provide operators with a common framework for understanding where they are on this journey and what needs to change as they progress toward higher levels of autonomy. TM Forum describes six maturity levels, from Level 0 manual operations to Level 5 full autonomy. Importantly, autonomous network levels are assessed within a defined scope, such as a specific operational scenario, workflow, or network domain. Achieving a particular autonomy level in one area does not automatically imply the same level of autonomy across an operator's entire network.
So, what do the different autonomous networks levels mean, and where can Polystar help?
The TM Forum framework describes a progression in which responsibility gradually shifts from people toward increasingly autonomous systems.
Operations are performed manually. People collect information, analyze situations, make decisions, and execute actions.
Systems begin assisting people with individual operational activities, but humans remain responsible for the process.
Automation takes responsibility for more operational activities and predefined processes, while people remain central to decision-making and management.
The network can automate more complex operational processes in defined contexts. Machines assist with decision-making, but operations still rely on human oversight.
This represents a significant transition. TM Forum describes Level 4 as introducing intent-driven decision-making, predictive analysis, and closed-loop management of service-driven and customer-experience-driven networks using AI modelling and continuous learning.
This is the destination of the maturity model: fully autonomous operations.
In practice, however, the industry's immediate emphasis is very much on Level 4 and beyond. TM Forum's Autonomous Networks Mission explicitly aims to help providers reach Level 4 and higher.
This distinction matters. The journey through the autonomous networks levels is not simply about automating more individual tasks. Higher autonomy changes how operational decisions are made.