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Define and standardize O-RAN open interfaces for AI/ML-enabled RAN functions

Define and standardize the open interfaces used by the O-RAN architecture to provide external data to AI/ML-enabled RAN functions and to configure the network via the Near-Real-Time RAN Intelligent Controller (nRT RIC), including formal data models, authentication, authorisation, and integrity protections to prevent data poisoning and misconfiguration.

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Background

The authors explain that O-RAN relies on open interfaces to ingest external data and control AI/ML-enabled RAN functions. However, these interfaces are not yet fully specified, creating a security gap that increases the risk of poisoning attacks and misconfigurations.

A formal definition and security standardization of these interfaces are crucial to ensure safe integration of external data sources and robust operation of AI/ML-driven control logic within the RIC.

References

Open interfaces in Open RAN allow external sources to provide data to intelligent RAN functions and configure the network intelligently. However, the interfaces have not been further defined.

— Intelligent Control in 6G Open RAN: Security Risk or Opportunity? (2405.08577 - Soltani et al., 14 May 2024) in Section 6.1.5 (Poisoned AI/ML RAN functions)