Enhancing AI Transparency: XRL-Based Resource Management and RAN Slicing for 6G ORAN Architecture

TL;DR

This paper presents an XAI framework for DRL agents in ORAN architectures, enhancing transparency and decision-making in resource management and RAN slicing for 6G networks.

Contribution

It introduces a novel XAI scheme with intent-based action steering integrated into ORAN, improving interpretability and control of DRL agents across operational timescales.

Findings

Improved KPI-based rewards through better decision transparency

Enhanced system adaptability with intent-based control

Significant performance gains in resource management

Abstract

This research introduces an advanced Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) framework designed to elucidate the decision-making processes of Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) agents in ORAN architectures. By offering network-oriented explanations, the proposed scheme addresses the critical challenge of understanding and optimizing the control actions of DRL agents for resource management and allocation. Traditional methods, both model-agnostic and model-specific approaches, fail to address the unique challenges presented by XAI in the dynamic and complex environment of RAN slicing. This paper transcends these limitations by incorporating intent-based action steering, allowing for precise embedding and configuration across various operational timescales. This is particularly evident in its integration with xAPP and rAPP sitting at near-real-time and non-real-time RIC, respectively, enhancing the system's adaptability and performance. Our findings demonstrate the framework's significant impact on improving Key Performance Indicator (KPI)-based rewards, facilitated by the ability to make informed multimodal decisions involving multiple control parameters by a DRL agent. Thus, our work marks a significant step forward in the practical application and effectiveness of XAI in optimizing ORAN resource management strategies.