Method and system for real-time configuration and auditing of network elements

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method [400] and a system [300] for real-time configuration and auditing of network elements The present disclosure encompasses a transceiver unit [302] to ingest network data from multiple network elements, where the network data are classified by a classification unit [304] and matched with a corresponding template. Further, a comparison unit [308] compares each network element with the corresponding template, and an audit report is generated by a generation unit [310]. Further, an identification unit [312] identifies differing parameters for each network element with the comparison outcome. Further, an extraction unit [314] extracts corrected values corresponding from the corresponding template. Further, a processing unit [318] segregates the network elements into groups and creates a work order for setting the corrected values in each network element, and further executes the work order on corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each network element.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REAL-TIME CONFIGURATION AND AUDITING OF NETWORK ELEMENTSFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to network performance management systems. More particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and systems for real-time configuration and auditing of network elements.BACKGROUND

[0002] The following description of the related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section is used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of the prior art.

[0003] Wireless communication technology has rapidly evolved over the past few decades, with each generation bringing significant improvements and advancements. The first generation of wireless communication technology was based on analog technology and offered only voice services. However, with the advent of the second-generation (2G) technology, digital communication and data services became possible, and text messaging was introduced. The third- generation (3G) technology marked the introduction of high-speed internet access, mobile video calling, and location-based services. The fourth-generation (4G) technology revolutionized wireless communication with faster data speeds, better network coverage, and improved security. Currently, the fifth-generation (5G) technology is being deployed, promising even faster data speeds, low latency, and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously. With each generation, wireless communication technology has become more advanced, sophisticated, and capable of delivering more services to its users.

[0004] However, with millions of network elements in the network from different vendors using different software versions, achieving a consistent configuration within each device related to different vendors is a significant challenge, as each device may have their own unique sets of parameters and may require different configuration templates. The existing solutions present require separate templates for various nodes, based on their location, environmental conditions,etc. Further, the process of classifying nodes and assigning the appropriate templates is cumbersome and slow. Moreover, the frequent need to change or update parameters, and the existing process being manual requires constant human involvement for updating, modifying and auditing network parameters.

[0005] In addition, the existing process struggled with efficiently managing these updates, often leading to inconsistencies and inaccuracies. Further, the existing solutions lacked the ability to audit parameters in real time or near-real time. As a result, discrepancies might not have been noticed or corrected for an extended period, potentially leading to operational inefficiencies or network issues. When issues arose due to unchangeable parameters (due to network issues, software issues, etc.), manual intervention was required. This increased the time to resolution and could potentially disrupt network performance.

[0006] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks there exists an imperative need in the art to provide a method and system for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices.SUMMARY

[0007] This section is provided to introduce certain aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] An aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a method for real-time configuration and auditing of network element. The method comprises ingesting, by a transceiver unit, a network data from a plurality of network elements. Further, the method comprises classifying, by a classification unit, each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. Further the method comprises correlating, by a correlation unit, each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification. Further the method comprises comparing, by a comparison unit, a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Further the method comprises generating, by a generation unit, an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality ofnetwork elements. Further the method comprises identifying, by an identification unit, a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements with at least one of the partial success outcome, and failure outcome. Further the method comprises extracting, by an extraction unit, a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. Further the method comprises segregating, by a processing unit, the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. Further the method comprises creating, by a processing unit, a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. Further, the method comprises executing, by the processing unit, the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters

[0009] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of predetermined parameters comprises at least a vendor, a network-element-type, a software-version, a region, and a terrain.

[0010] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the ingesting network data from the plurality of network elements occurs in real-time.

[0011] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the method further comprises steps of extracting, by the extraction unit, a set of output configuration parameters from the network element after execution of the work order, and storing, by a storing unit, the set of output configuration parameters in a server.

[0012] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the method further comprises comparing, by the comparison unit, the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Further, the method comprises generating, by the generation unit, the audit report based on the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of the success outcome, the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements. Further, the method comprises identifying, by the identification unit, the list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements with at least the partial successoutcome, and the failure outcome. Further, the method comprises extracting, by the extraction unit, the set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. Further, the method comprises segregating, by the processing unit, the list of differing parameters into the set of groups based on at least one of the type of the network equipment, the vendor associated with the network equipment, and the EMS used to manage the network element. Further, the method comprises creating, by the processing unit, the work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises the configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. Further the method comprises executing, by the processing unit, the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.

[0013] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template is repeated n times, and wherein n is a number determined based on the plurality of network elements matching their associated value of the template.

[0014] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the method further comprises generating, by the generation unit, alarms for parameters that are not changeable due to network issues or software issues, indicating a need for manual intervention.

[0015] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the audit report is generated for each of the plurality of network element.

[0016] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the ingesting of the network data comprises capturing information from each of the plurality of the network element relating to a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a system for real-time configuration and auditing of network element. The system comprises a transceiver unit configured to ingest a network data from a plurality of network elements. Further, the system comprise a classification unit configured to classify each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. Further, the system comprises a correlation unit configured to associateeach of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification. Further, the system comprises a comparison unit configured to compare a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Further, the system comprise a generation unit configured to generate an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements. Further, the system comprise an identification unit configured to identify a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements with at least one of the partial success outcome, and failure outcome. Further, the system comprise an extraction unit configured to extract a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. Further, the system comprise a processing unit configured to segregate the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. The processing unit is further configured to create a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. The processing unit is further configured to execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.

[0018] Another aspect of the present disclosure may disclose a network node comprising a memory, and a processor connected with the memory for sending a network data to the system. Further, the network data is further used by the system for real-time configuration and auditing of a network element, based on: ingesting, by a transceiver unit, a network data from a plurality of network elements. Further, classifying, by a classification unit, each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. Further, correlating, by a correlation unit, each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification. Further, comparing, by a comparison unit, a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Further, generating, by a generation unit, an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements. Further, identifying, by an identification unit, a list of differing parameters each of theplurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome. Further, extracting, by an extraction unit, a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. Further, segregating, by a processing unit, the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. Further, creating, by a processing unit, a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. Further, executing, by the processing unit, the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters.

[0019] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for real-time configuration and auditing of network element, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system, causes: a transceiver unit to ingest a network data from a plurality of network elements. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a classification unit to classify each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a correlation unit to associate each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a comparison unit to compare a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template . Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a generation unit to generate an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes an identification unit to identify a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes an extraction unit to extract a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a processing unit to segregate the list of differing parameters into aset of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes the processing unit to create a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values, and execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0020] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment disclosed herein satisfies are listed herein below.

[0021] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system and a method for real-time configuration and auditing of network element across diverse vendor devices.

[0022] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and auditing across diverse vendor devices that automate the process of updating, modifying, and auditing network parameters across a multitude of devices from various vendors and across differing software versions.

[0023] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices that enable rapid deployment and application of configuration templates to specific network elements based on certain conditions, such as region, terrain, and network-element type. This would dramatically reduce the time taken for these processes from weeks / months to minutes.

[0024] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices that allow real time or daily audit of tens of millions of network parameters, identifying discrepancies, and rectifying them quickly.

[0025] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices that have asystem that can adapt to the parameters and templates of multiple vendors and different software versions, allowing for better cross-compatibility and interoperability.

[0026] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices that identify parameters that cannot be changed and flag them for manual intervention, speeding up problem resolution and improving network performance.

[0027] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices that manage and audit a massive number of network elements efficiently, handling billions of parameters across the network.

[0028] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method for automated network parameter configuration and audit across diverse vendor devices that reduce human errors associated with manual configuration and ensure accuracy in the parameter values by aligning them with the expected "golden" parameters.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Also, the embodiments shown in the figures are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure, but the possible variants of the method and system according to the disclosure are illustrated herein to highlight the advantages of the disclosure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of 5thgeneration core (5GC) network architecture.

[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary computing device upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary system for real-time configuration and auditing of network element, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary method flow diagram for real-time configuration and auditing of network element, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary method flow diagram indicating the process for real-time configuration and auditing of network element, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 6 illustrates a method flow diagram for real-time configuration and auditing of network element in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.

[0036] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter may each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above.

[0038] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may bemade in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.

[0039] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail.

[0040] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations may be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure.

[0041] The word “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive — in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as an open transition word — without precluding any additional or other elements.

[0042] As used herein, a “processing unit” or “processor” or “operating processor” includes one or more processors, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. A processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input / output processing, and / or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor or processing unit is a hardware processor.

[0043] As used herein, “a user equipment”, “a user device”, “a smart-user-device”, “a smartdevice”, “an electronic device”, “a mobile device”, “a handheld device”, “a wireless communication device”, “a mobile communication device”, “a communication device” may be any electrical, electronic and / or computing device or equipment, capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. The user equipment / device may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, smart phone, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, wearable device or any other computing device which is capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. Also, the user device may contain at least one input means configured to receive an input from unit(s) which are required to implement the features of the present disclosure.

[0044] As used herein, “storage unit” or “memory unit” refers to a machine or computer-readable medium including any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a computer or similar machine. For example, a computer-readable medium includes read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices or other types of machine-accessible storage media. The storage unit stores at least the data that may be required by one or more units of the system to perform their respective functions.

[0045] As used herein “interface” or “user interface refers to a shared boundary across which two or more separate components of a system exchange information or data. The interface may also be referred to a set of rules or protocols that define communication or interaction of one or more modules or one or more units with each other, which also includes the methods, functions, or procedures that may be called.

[0046] All modules, units, components used herein, unless explicitly excluded herein, may be software modules or hardware processors, the processors being a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Array circuits (FPGA), any other type of integrated circuits, etc.

[0047] As used herein the transceiver unit include at least one receiver and at least one transmitter configured respectively for receiving and transmitting data, signals, information or a combination thereof between units / components within the system and / or connected with the system.

[0048] As portable electronic devices and wireless technologies continue to improve and grow in popularity, the advancing wireless technologies for data transfer are also expected to evolve and replace the older generations of technologies. In the field of wireless data communications, the dynamic advancement of various generations of cellular technology is also seen. The development, in this respect, has been incremental in the order of second generation (2G), third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), and now fifth generation (5G), and more such generations are expected to continue in the forthcoming time.

[0049] Radio Access Technology (RAT) refers to the technology used by mobile devices / user equipment (UE) to connect to a cellular network. It refers to the specific protocol and standards that govern the way devices communicate with base stations, which are responsible for providing the wireless connection. Further, each RAT has its own set of protocols and standards for communication, which define the frequency bands, modulation techniques, and other parameters used for transmitting and receiving data. Examples of RATs include GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), LTE (Long-Term Evolution), and 5G. The choice of RAT depends on a variety of factors, including the network infrastructure, the available spectrum, and the mobile device's / device's capabilities. Mobile devices often support multiple RATs, allowing them to connect to different types of networks and provide optimal performance based on the available network resources.

[0050] gNodeB (gNB) refers to the base station component in 5G (fifth-generation) wireless networks. It is an essential element of the Radio Access Network (RAN) responsible for transmitting and receiving wireless signals to and from user devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and Internet of Things (loT) devices. In 5G networks, there are similar components in other generations of wireless networks. Here are a few examples: Base Transceiver Station (BTS): In 2G (second-generation) networks, the BTS serves as the base station responsible for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. It connects mobile devices to the cellular network infrastructure. NodeB: In 3G (third-generation) networks, the NodeB is the base station component that enables wireless communication. It facilitates the transmission and reception of signals between user devices and the network. eNodeB: In 4G (fourth-generation) LTE (Long-Term Evolution)networks, the eNodeB serves as the base station. It supports high-speed data transmission, low latency, and improved network capacity. Access Point (AP): In Wi-Fi networks, an access point functions as a central hub that enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network. It provides a wireless interface for devices to access the network and facilitates communication between them. The examples illustrate the base station components in different generations of wireless networks, such as BTS in 2G, NodeB in 3G, eNodeB in 4G LTE, and gNodeB in 5G. Each component plays a crucial role in facilitating wireless connectivity and communication between user devices and the network infrastructure.

[0051] As discussed in the background section, the current known solutions have several shortcomings such as the current known solution was manual and required constant human involvement for updating, modifying and auditing network parameters. This process was both human-effort-intensive and time-consuming, often taking several weeks or even months to complete. With millions of network elements from different vendors using different software versions, achieving a consistent configuration was a significant challenge. Each vendor's device may have its own unique set of parameters and require different configuration templates. The prior art required separate templates for various nodes, based on their location, environmental conditions, etc. The process of classifying nodes and assigning the appropriate templates was cumbersome and slow. Given the frequent need to change or update parameters, the previous system struggled with efficiently managing these updates, often leading to inconsistencies and inaccuracies. The prior art lacked the ability to audit parameters in real time or near-real time. As a result, discrepancies might not have been noticed or corrected for an extended period, potentially leading to operational inefficiencies or network issues. When issues arose due to unchangeable parameters (due to network issues, software issues, etc.), manual intervention was required. This increased the time to resolution and could potentially disrupt network performance.

[0052] The present disclosure aims to overcome the above-mentioned and other existing problems in this field of technology by providing method and system of real-time configuration and auditing of network element. The proposed invention addresses these issues by introducing an automated system that significantly reduces the time and effort required for parameter updates, streamlines the creation and deployment of templates, efficiently manages parameter variations across diverse vendors and network nodes, and handles the differences caused by different software versions.

[0053] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of 5thgeneration core (5GC) network architecture, in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. Asshown in FIG. 1, the 5GC network architecture

[0100] includes a user equipment (UE)

[0102] , a radio access network (RAN)

[0104] , an access and mobility management function (AMF)

[0106] , a Session Management Function (SMF)

[0108] , a Service Communication Proxy (SCP)

[0110] , an Authentication Server Function (AUSF)

[0112] , a Network Slice Specific Authentication and Authorization Function (NSSAAF)

[0114] , a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF)

[0116] , a Network Exposure Function (NEF)

[0118] , a Network Repository Function (NRF)

[0120] , a Policy Control Function (PCF)

[0122] , a Unified Data Management (UDM)

[0124] , an application function (AF)

[0126] , a User Plane Function (UPF)

[0128] , a data network (DN)

[0130] , wherein all the components are assumed to be connected to each other in a manner as obvious to the person skilled in the art for implementing features of the present disclosure.

[0054] Radio Access Network (RAN)

[0104] is the part of a mobile telecommunications system that connects user equipment (UE)

[0102] to the core network (CN) and provides access to different types of networks (e.g., 5G network). It consists of radio base stations and the radio access technologies that enable wireless communication.

[0055] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF)

[0106] is a 5G core network function responsible for managing access and mobility aspects, such as UE registration, connection, and reachability. It also handles mobility management procedures like handovers and paging.

[0056] Session Management Function (SMF)

[0108] is a 5G core network function responsible for managing session-related aspects, such as establishing, modifying, and releasing sessions. It coordinates with the User Plane Function (UPF) for data forwarding and handles IP address allocation and QoS enforcement.

[0057] Service Communication Proxy (SCP)

[0110] is a network function in the 5G core network that facilitates communication between other network functions by providing a secure and efficient messaging service. It acts as a mediator for service-based interfaces.

[0058] Authentication Server Function (AUSF)

[0112] is a network function in the 5G core responsible for authenticating UEs during registration and providing security services. It generates and verifies authentication vectors and tokens.

[0059] Network Slice Specific Authentication and Authorization Function (NSSAAF)

[0114] is a network function that provides authentication and authorization services specific to network slices. It ensures that UEs can access only the slices for which they are authorized.

[0060] Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF)

[0116] is a network function responsible for selecting the appropriate network slice for a UE based on factors such as subscription, requested services, and network policies.

[0061] Network Exposure Function (NEF)

[0118] is a network function that exposes capabilities and services of the 5G network to external applications, enabling integration with third-party services and applications.

[0062] Network Repository Function (NRF)

[0120] is a network function that acts as a central repository for information about available network functions and services. It facilitates the discovery and dynamic registration of network functions.

[0063] Policy Control Function (PCF)

[0122] is a network function responsible for policy control decisions, such as QoS, charging, and access control, based on subscriber information and network policies.

[0064] Unified Data Management (UDM)

[0124] is a network function that centralizes the management of subscriber data, including authentication, authorization, and subscription information.

[0065] Application Function (AF)

[0126] is a network function that represents external applications interfacing with the 5G core network to access network capabilities and services.

[0066] User Plane Function (UPF)

[0128] is a network function responsible for handling user data traffic, including packet routing, forwarding, and QoS enforcement.

[0067] Data Network (DN)

[0130] refers to a network that provides data services to user equipment (UE) in a telecommunications system. The data services may include but are not limited to Internet services, private data network related services.

[0068] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device

[0200] upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In an implementation, the computing device

[0200] may employ the 5GC network architecture as explained in conjunction with FIG. 1. In another implementation, the computing device

[0200] may also implement a method for real-time configuration and auditing of network element utilizing the system. In yet another implementation, the computing device

[0200] itself implements the method for real-time configuration and auditing of network element using one or more units configured within the computing device

[0200] , wherein said one or more units are capable of implementing the features as disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0069] The computing device

[0200] may include a bus

[0202] or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a hardware processor

[0204] coupled with the bus

[0202] for processing information. The hardware processor

[0204] may be, for example, a general-purpose microprocessor. The computing device

[0200] may also include a main memory

[0206] , such as a random-access memory (RAM), or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus

[0202] for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor

[0204] , The main memory

[0206] also may be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of the instructions to be executed by the processor

[0204] . Such instructions, when stored in non-transitory storage media accessible to the processor

[0204] , render the computing device

[0200] into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions. The computing device

[0200] further includes a read only memory (ROM)

[0208] or other static storage device coupled to the bus

[0202] for storing static information and instructions for the processor

[0204] .

[0070] A storage device

[0210] , such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or solid-state drive is provided and coupled to the bus

[0202] for storing information and instructions. The computing device

[0200] may be coupled via the bus

[0202] to a display

[0212] , such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), Liquid crystal Display (LCD), Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, Organic LED (OLED) display, etc. for displaying information to a computer user. An input device

[0214] , including alphanumeric and other keys, touch screen input means, etc. may be coupled to the bus

[0202] for communicating information and command selections to the processor

[0204] . Another type of user input device may be a cursor controller

[0216] , such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor

[0204] , and for controlling cursor movement on the display

[0212] , This input device typically has two degrees offreedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), that allow the device to specify positions in a plane.

[0071] The computing device

[0200] may implement the techniques described herein using customized hard-wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware and / or program logic which in combination with the computing device

[0200] causes or programs the computing device

[0200] to be a special -purpose machine. According to one implementation, the techniques herein are performed by the computing device

[0200] in response to the processor

[0204] executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory

[0206] . Such instructions may be read into the main memory

[0206] from another storage medium, such as the storage device

[0210] , Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the main memory

[0206] causes the processor

[0204] to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative implementations of the present disclosure, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions.

[0072] The computing device

[0200] also may include a communication interface

[0218] coupled to the bus

[0202] , The communication interface

[0218] provides a two-way data communication coupling to a network link

[0220] that is connected to a local network

[0222] , For example, the communication interface

[0218] may be an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, cable modem, satellite modem, or a modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the communication interface

[0218] may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such implementation, the communication interface

[0218] sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

[0073] The computing device

[0200] can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network(s), the network link

[0220] and the communication interface

[0218] , In the Internet example, a server

[0230] might transmit a requested code for an application program through the Internet

[0228] , the ISP

[0226] , the local network

[0222] , the host

[0224] and the communication interface

[0218] , The received code may be executed by the processor

[0204] as it is received, and / or stored in the storage device

[0210] , or other non-volatile storage for later execution.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary block diagram of a system

[0300] for real-time configuration and auditing of network elements, is shown, in accordance with the exemplaryimplementations of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 3, the system

[0300] comprises at least one transceiver unit

[0302] , at least one classification unit

[0304] , at least one correlation unit

[0306] , at least one comparison unit

[0308] , at least one generation unit

[0310] , at least one identification unit

[0312] , at least one extraction unit

[0314] , at least one storing unit

[0316] , and at least one processing unit

[0318] , Also, all of the components / units of the system

[0300] are assumed to be connected to each other unless otherwise indicated below. As shown in the figures all units shown within the system

[0300] should also be assumed to be connected to each other. Also, in FIG. 3 only a few units are shown, however, the system

[0300] may comprise multiple such units or the system

[0300] may comprise any such numbers of said units, as required to implement the features of the present disclosure. Further, in an implementation, the system

[0300] may be present in a user device / user equipment

[0102] to implement the features of the present disclosure. The system

[0300] may be a part of the user device

[0102] / or may be independent of but in communication with the user device

[0102] (may also referred herein as a UE). In another implementation, the system

[0300] may reside in a server or a network entity. In yet another implementation, the system

[0300] may reside partly in the server / network entity and partly in the user device.

[0075] The system

[0300] is configured for real-time configuration and auditing of network element, with the help of the interconnection between the components / units of the system

[0300] ,

[0076] Further, in accordance with the present disclosure, it is to be acknowledged that the functionality described for the various the components / units can be implemented interchangeably. While specific embodiments may disclose a particular functionality of these units for clarity, it is recognized that various configurations and combinations thereof are within the scope of the disclosure . The functionality of specific units as disclosed in the disclosure should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Consequently, alternative arrangements and substitutions of units, provided they achieve the intended functionality described herein, are considered to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0077] In operation, in one example, the transceiver unit

[0302] may ingest network data from a plurality of network elements. The transceiver unit

[0302] , mentioned herein, may interact with each network elements from the plurality of network elements. Examples of such network elements may include, but are not limited to, routers, switches, servers, and other elements known in the art of a network infrastructure.

[0078] In one example, the network data may be received from the network element. In another example, the network data associated with the plurality of network elements may be collected at a network entity, such as a centralized server. The centralized server, in such cases, may be in communication with the system

[0300] , The system

[0300] may then ingest the network data from the plurality of network elements, via the centralized server. In yet another example, the network data associated with the network elements may be received from a network repository. It may be further noted that all such ways of ingesting the network data provided here are only exemplary and in no manner to be construed to limit the scope of the present subject matter in any manner. Any other technique or method known to a person skilled in the art may be used by the system

[0300] for ingesting the network data from the plurality of network elements.

[0079] In yet another example, the ingesting network data from the plurality of network element may occur in real-time or within a frequent time-period for a consecutive time period (such as every 4 hours for each day).

[0080] In yet another example, prior to ingesting the network data from the plurality of network elements, such data may require to be processed and prepared for analysis. The processing and preparing the network data may involve cleaning of the network data via one or more actions, such as removing any errors and irrelevant information from the network data, normalizing the network data into a standard format, or transforming the data into a more useful format. The processed data may then be stored in the network repository in an organized manner, such that the network data is easily retrieved when necessary.

[0081] Further, in order to ingest the network data, the transceiver unit

[0302] may use one or more protocols such as a Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), which allows the transceiver unit

[0302] to retrieve detailed information associated with the real-time data from each network element in view of ingesting an accurate and consistent real-time data from each network element.

[0082] In another example, the ingesting of the network data may include capturing information from each of the plurality of the network element relating to a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters. In yet another example, the network data related to a router may include current configuration settings of the router which may include routing tables and access control list. In yet another example, the network data related to a switch may include port status, virtual local area network (VLAN) configuration, and a data handling performance of the switch.

[0083] It may be again noted that such information and types of network data are only exemplary, and any other type of information may also be captured and would he within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0084] Continuing further, thereafter, post ingesting the network data from each network element by the transceiver unit

[0302] , the classification unit

[0304] may then classify each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. For example, the plurality of parameters may include at least a network-element-type, a vendor, a software -version, a region, and a terrain. Further, the plurality of parameters is not limited to the aforementioned parameters and may include any other parameters known to a person skilled in the art for an implementation of the present system

[0300] ,

[0085] In one example, the classification unit

[0304] may identify each network element based on at least one of the plurality of pre-defined parameters such as network-element-type. The networkelement-type may include one or more elements, which may include one of routers, switches, servers, firewalls, and other networking hardware known in the art of the network infrastructure.

[0086] In another example, the classification unit

[0304] may classify the plurality of networks elements based on the vendor for each network-element-type. The classification unit

[0304] may further classify the plurality of networks based on the vendor that may help in identifying one or more similar issues within a same vendor. Such as if there are three vendors (suppose Vendor A, Vendor B, and Vendor C), then the classification unit

[0304] may classify the network elements that are associated with Vendor A and simultaneously, the network elements associated with the Vendor B and Vendor C, respectively. The classification of each network elements based on the Vendor may assist in identifying the one or more similar issues that may relate to specific protocols, firmware updates, and maintenance procedures associated with the same vendor.

[0087] In yet another example, the classification unit

[0304] may classify each network element based on software-version or firmware currently running on said network element. The classification of said network element on the basis of software-version, may help in ensuring that whether each network element from the plurality of network elements, are operating within the latest updates and patches of said software-version.

[0088] In yet another example, the classification unit

[0304] may further classify each network element based on the region. Here, a region parameter from the plurality of pre-defined parameters may refer to a geographical location of each network element. The region parameter may also include any manmade boundaries such as borders, culture or similar. One such example may be described as an urban region, a suburban region, and a rural region. Further, the region parameter may further assist in management of issues in the plurality of network elements that are faced by similar geographical location. Such issues faced by the plurality of network elements in rural region may differ to the issues faced by the plurality of network elements in the urban region.

[0089] In yet another example, the classification unit

[0304] may further classify each network element based on the terrain. Herein, a terrain parameter from the plurality of pre-defined parameters may refer to a physical environment which includes but not limited to a particular landform, elevation and similar, in which the network element is deployed.

[0090] It may again be noted that the classification of the plurality of network elements are not limited on at least the network-element-type, the vendor, the software-version, the region and the terrain and further one or more parameters known to a person skilled in the art may be utilized for further classification of the plurality of network elements.

[0091] Returning to the present example, thereafter, the correlation unit

[0306] may correlate each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template. Each of the corresponding templates may include a set of optimal parameters based on a classification. Herein, the classified network elements are referred to the network elements that are further classified by the classification unit based on the plurality of parameters such as the network-element-type, the vendor, the software-version, the region, and the terrain.

[0092] In one example, post classification of each of the plurality the network elements, the correlation unit

[0306] may correlate each of the plurality of the network elements with the corresponding template. Herein the corresponding template may include a pre-defined configuration that is specific to one of a network element from the plurality of network elements. For example, a corresponding template for the Vendor A may include one or more recommend settings (such as routing protocols, security features, and performance optimizations) that is specific to the one or more network elements associated with the Vendor A and may not be applicable to the one or more network elements that are associated with the Vendor B. Further, the template for each unique classification of the network elements is created by networkadministrators, engineers or any other person known in the skill of art and may further stored in the storing unit

[0316] for easily fetching the required template when necessary.

[0093] It may be again noted that such classification of the plurality the network elements are only exemplary, and any other type of classification may also be captured and would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0094] Thereafter, the comparison unit

[0308] may compare a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Herein, the set of current configuration parameters may reflect one or more values for the one or more parameters associated with a specific network element. Further, the set of optimal parameters may reflect the one or more values that each network element must attain to functional effectively. In one example, the comparison unit

[0308] mentioned herein may fetch the configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements and then may fetch the optimal parameters from the corresponding template that are associated for each of the plurality of network elements, by the correlation unit

[0306] , Thereafter, the comparison unit

[0308] may compare said configuration parameters with said optimal parameters.

[0095] For ease of understanding, considering an example: in case the current configuration parameters (suppose software version) for a network element is an outdated software version, the comparison unit

[0308] , in such case, post comparing the current configuration parameters of the network element, the comparison unit

[0308] may determine that the network element may lack some important security patches.

[0096] Thereafter, based on the comparison conducted by the comparison unit

[0308] , for evaluating the current configuration parameters of each network element against the optimal parameters specified in the corresponding templates of said network element, the generation unit

[0310] then may generate an audit report based on the comparison outcomes of the comparison unit

[0308] , The audit report of a specific network element may reflect as a comprehensive document that assesses the health and security of the network element. The audit report of a specific network element may further assist in identifying any vulnerabilities of said network element and the area of improvement for said network element.

[0097] The audit report may categorize the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of networkelements. For example, an exemplary audit report for an exemplary network element, say ‘X’ of vendor, say ‘A’, has been depicted below in Table 1.Table 1

[0098] For example, an exemplary audit report for an exemplary network element, say ‘Y’ of vendor, say ‘B’, has been depicted below in Table 2.Table 2

[0099] For example, an exemplary audit report for an exemplary network element, say ‘Z’ of vendor, say ‘C’, has been depicted below in Table 3.Table 3

[0100] Herein, the header of the audit report for each network element is the parameter 1, the parameter 2, the parameter 3, the parameter 4, and the parameter 5. Further, the above-mentioned parameters may refer to at least one of a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters, and any other parameters that may provide the network element data of the network element ‘X’, the network element ‘Y’, and the network element ‘Z’. Further, it is to be noted that the parameters of each of network elements may vary and it is also not necessarily, that each network element may have same parameters. However, for an ease of understanding we have taken similar parameters for sake of clarity.

[0101] It may be noted that the above-mentioned audit reports and the values of parameters taken are just exemplary, and have been depicted only for the sake of explanation and illustration. The above-provided parameter ranges and the format of the audit report, in no manner, is construed to limit the scope of the present subject matter in any manner. The generation unit

[0310] may generate an audit report in any format for any number of network elements. All such examples would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0102] In yet another example, the audit report may further categorize each of the plurality of network elements based on the comparison outcomes of the comparison unit

[0308] , such as the success outcome may indicate that the current configuration parameters of a specific network element match the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of said specific template. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned table of the network element ‘X’, all the current configuration parameters match with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template ‘X’) of the network element ‘X’. Further, in such a case, the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element ‘X’ as the success outcome.

[0103] In another example, the partial success outcome may indicate that the current configuration parameters of a specific network element are somewhat matching the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of said specific template. Further, the partial success outcome may indicate that there may be some deviations in said current configuration parameters from the said corresponding template. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned table of the network element ‘Y’, the current configuration parameters such as the parameter 1, the parameter 3, and the parameter 5 matches with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template ‘Y’) of the network element ‘Y’. Further, in such a case, thecomparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element Y as the partialsuccess outcome.

[0104] In yet another example, the failure outcome may indicate that the current configuration parameters of a specific network element are deviating from the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of said specific template. Further, the failure outcome of a specific network element from the plurality of network elements may indicate that the said specific network element is configured improperly and may lead to performance issues, security vulnerabilities, or operational inefficiencies for said specific network element. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned table of the network element ‘Z’, none of the current configuration parameters match with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template ‘Z’) of the network element ‘Z’. Further, in such a case, the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element ‘Z’ as the failure outcome.

[0105] Returning to the present example, thereafter, the identification unit

[0312] may identify a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome. The list of differing parameters may refer to one or more current configuration parameters present in the audit report that do not match with the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of a specific network element.

[0106] Thereafter, the extraction unit

[0314] may extract a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. The set of corrected values refers to the ideal values that are mentioned in the corresponding template of each network element. The extraction unit

[0314] based on the list of differing parameters, may further extract the correct values from the corresponding template of each network element. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned audit report of the network element ‘Y’, the identification unit

[0312] may identify that the parameter 2 (such as 5386 5148), and the parameter 4 (such as 3258 4897) are in the list of differing parameters. Further, the extraction unit

[0314] may extract the set of corrected values such as T2 (suppose 5148), and V2 (suppose 4897) from the corresponding template ‘Y’.

[0107] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may segregate the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of type of network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. Further, the network equipment mentioned here may refer to the network element thatmay provide data exchange or communication between one or more devices that are connected within the network infrastructure. Furthermore, the vendor associated with the network equipment may reflect an entity that may manufacture, sell or provide support to the network equipment for facilitation of the data exchange or communication. Further, the EMS is used to monitor one or more network elements in a large infrastructure.

[0108] For example, post extracting the set of corrected values from the from the corresponding template of the plurality of network elements, based on the list of differing parameters, the processing unit

[0318] may segregate the each of the plurality of network elements in the set of groups, which may include the network elements with either one of the similar type of network equipment, the similar vendor associated with the network equipment, or the similar element management system (EMS) that may use to manage the network elements. The segregation of the plurality of network elements is done due to the differing functions and configuration needs of each of the plurality of network elements. For ease of understanding, based on the above- mentioned audit report of the network element ‘ Y’ , the processing unit

[0318] may further segregate the parameter P2 and the parameter P4 in same group as the parameter P2 and the parameter P4 may associated with same vendor (suppose Vendor ‘B’).

[0109] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may create a work order for each of the set of groups. Each work order may include a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. The configuration change command mentioned herein may include one or more necessary adjustments that may need to be done on an existing configuration of a specific network element.

[0110] In one example, the work order for each group from the set of groups may include a detailed instructions for adjusting the differing parameters of said group to their corrected values as mentioned in the corresponding template of the network elements of said group. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned audit report of the network element ‘Y’, the processing unit

[0318] may further generate the work order for the group that involves the parameter P2 and the parameter P4. For more clarification, let’s suppose the network element ‘Y’ is a router, then the work order may include a detailed instructions for rectifying the current configuration parameter values (suppose 5386, and 3258) to the optimal parameter values (5148, and 4897) which may include updating the routing protocols of said router (i.e. network element ‘Y’). Further, in another scenario, let’s suppose the network element ‘Z’ is a switch, then the work ordermay include a detailed instructions to update VLAN configurations of said switch (i.e. network element ‘Z’).

[0111] It may be again noted that such work order mentioned herein are only exemplary, and any other work order may also be captured and would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0112] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.

[0113] In one example, the EMS corresponding to a network element may execute the detailed instructions that are provided in the work order on said network element in order to minimize the differing parameters of said network element. For ease of understanding, the processing unit

[0318] may further send the work order to the EMS corresponding to the network element Y. Thereafter, the EMS may then execute the work order (updating the routing protocols) on the network element Y.

[0114] Returning to the present example, thereafter, the extraction unit

[0314] may extract a set of output configuration parameters from the network element after execution of the work order. In one example, the set of output configuration parameters may include the adjusted values in the current configuration parameters and settings that may applied on the plurality of network elements by corresponding EMS.

[0115] For ease in understanding, explaining the above-mentioned paragraph with an example: consider the exemplary scenario of network element Y, where the work order generated for network element Y includes updating the routing protocols. Post implementation of the work order on the network element Y, the current configuration parameter may now change such as the value of parameter 2 for the network element Y may now change from ‘5386’ to ‘5148’. Similarly, the value of parameter 4 for the network element Y may now change from ‘3258’ to ‘3965’. Further, the change in the current configuration parameters and settings of the network element Y may now be termed as the output configuration parameters of the network element Y. Thereafter, the extraction unit

[0314] may further extract the set of output configuration parameters from the network element Y.

[0116] Thereafter, post extracting the set of output configuration parameters from the plurality of network elements, the storing unit

[0316] may store the set of output configuration parameters maybe stored in a server. In one example, the storing unit

[0316] may store the set of output configuration parameters for each of the plurality of network elements in an organized manner for further reference of said output configuration parameters. In another example, the server may act as a database that may provide access to a historical configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements along with changes implicated in the configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements.

[0117] In one example, thereafter the comparison unit

[0308] may further compare the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. For ease of understanding, for the network element Y, the comparison unit

[0308] may again compare the set of output configuration parameters (updated parameter P2 suppose ‘5148’ and ‘3965’) with the predefined values (‘5148’ and ‘4897’) from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template Y.

[0118] Thereafter, in one example, in cases where the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters is done with the predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, the generation unit

[0310] , in such cases, may generate the audit report accordingly.

[0119] In another example, the audit report may be generated for each of the plurality of network element. For ease of understanding: for the network element Y, the new audit report may be now presented as depicted below, in Table 4.Table 4

[0120] In yet another example, the audit report may further categorize each of the plurality of network elements based on the comparison outcomes of the comparison unit

[0308] , such as the success outcome, the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome.

[0121] Thereafter, the identification unit

[0312] may again identify the list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome. Thereafter, the extraction unit

[0314] may again extract the set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. For ease of understating, for the network element Y, the identification unit

[0312] may again identify that the output configuration parameters such as the parameter 1, the parameter 2, the parameter 3, and the parameter 5 matches with the with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template Y) of the network element Y, but still the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element Y as the partial-success outcome as the parameter 4 of the output configuration parameters (3965) of the network element Y may not match with the optimal parameters (4897) that are present in the template Y.

[0122] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may again segregate the list of differing parameters into the set of groups based on at least one of type of the network equipment, the vendor associated with the network equipment, and the element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. For ease of understanding, considering the network element Y, the processing unit

[0318] may again segregate the parameter P4 in same group as the parameter P4 is associated with same vendor (i.e. Vendor B).

[0123] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may again create the work order for each of the set of groups. Each work order may include the configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values.

[0124] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may again execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements. For ease of understanding, the processing unit

[0318] may further send the work order to the EMS corresponding to the network element Y. Thereafter, the EMS may then again execute the work order (updating the firewall settings) on the network element Y. It is to be noted that the word order may change based on a failure of the previous work order and is totally dependent on the type of network element and the parameter associated with the network element.

[0125] Further, the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of thecorresponding template may be repeated n times, ‘n’ is a number determined based on the plurality of network elements matching their associated value of the template.

[0126] The n times mentioned here may reflect a number of times the process of comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, is repeated in order until said output configuration parameters matches with said predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. The n times may indicate an integer value and may include (1 time, 2 times, 3 times, n times). In one example, the generation unit

[0310] may generate an alarm for parameters that are not changeable due to network issues or software issues, indicating a need for manual intervention.

[0127] In one example, the generation unit

[0310] may further indicate the parameters that requires an authorized personal (a person or a group of person skilled in the art) to rectify the network issues or software issues related to a specific network element from the plurality of network elements. In one example, the network issues mentioned here may arise from network problems such as connectivity disruptions, hardware malfunctions, or conflicts with existing configurations of said specific network element. Further, the software issues mentioned here may include bugs or version incompatibilities of said specific network element.

[0128] For ease in understanding, considering an exemplary scenario for the network element Y, the work order generated for the network element Y includes updating the routing protocols and updating the firewall settings of the network element Y. Further, in case the comparison unit

[0308] may further detect that the set of output configuration parameters may not match with the predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template Y, then in such case the generation unit

[0310] may generate the alarm along with specifying other details (such as the parameters, associated vendors, previously work orders and similar), for ensuring that the set of output configuration parameters matches with the set of optimal parameters, via a manual intervention.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary method flow diagram

[0400] for real-time configuration and auditing of network elements, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown. In an implementation the method

[0400] is performed by the system

[0300] , Further, in an implementation, the system

[0300] may be present in a server device to implementthe features of the present disclosure. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the method

[0400] starts at step

[0402] and proceeds to step

[0404] .

[0130] At step

[0404] , the method

[0400] comprises ingesting, by a transceiver unit

[0302] , a network data from a plurality of network elements.

[0131] The method

[0400] explains that the transceiver unit

[0302] may interact with each network elements from the plurality of network elements. Examples of such network elements may include, but are not limited to, routers, switches, servers, and other elements known in the art of a network infrastructure.

[0132] The method

[0400] further explains that the network data may be received from the network element. The method

[0400] further explains that the network data associated with the plurality of network elements may be collected at a network entity, such as a centralized server, that may be is in communication with the transceiver unit

[0302] , The transceiver unit

[0302] may then ingest the network data from the plurality of network elements, via the centralized server. The method

[0400] further explains that the network data associated with the network elements may be received from a network repository. Furthermore, it may be noted that all such ways of ingesting the network data provided here are only exemplary and in no manner to be construed to limit the scope of the present subject matter in any manner. Any other technique or method

[0400] known to a person skilled in the art may be used by the method

[0400] for ingesting the network data from the plurality of network elements.

[0133] The method

[0400] further explains that the ingesting network data from the plurality of network element may occur in real-time or within a frequent time-period for a consecutive time period (such as every 4 hours for each day).

[0134] In a scenario, prior to ingesting the network data from the plurality of network elements, such data may require to be processed and prepared for analysis. The processing and preparing the network data may involve cleaning of the network data via one or more actions, such as removing any errors and irrelevant information from the network data, normalizing the network data into a standard format, or transforming the data into a more useful format. The processed data may then be stored in the network repository in an organized manner, such that the network data is easily retrieved when necessary.

[0135] Further, the method

[0400] explains that in order to ingest the network data, the transceiver unit

[0302] may use one or more protocols such as a Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), which allows the transceiver unit

[0302] to retrieve detailed information associated with the real-time data from each network element in view of ingesting an accurate and consistent real-time data from each network element.

[0136] Further, the method

[0400] further explains that the ingesting of the network data may include capturing information from each of the plurality of the network element relating to a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters. In yet another example, the network data related to a router may include current configuration settings of the router which may include routing tables and access control list. In yet another example, the network data related to a switch may include port status, virtual local area network (VLAN) configuration, and a data handling performance of the switch. Furthermore, it may be again noted that such information and types of network data are only exemplary, and any other type of information may also be captured and would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0137] At step

[0406] , the method

[0400] comprises classifying, by a classification unit

[0304] , each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. Further, in an implementation of the present disclosure, the plurality of predetermined parameters comprises at least a vendor, a network-element-type, a software-version, a region, and a terrain.

[0138] The method

[0400] further explains that the plurality of parameters is not limited to the aforementioned parameters and may include any other parameters known to a person skilled in the art for an implementation of the present method

[0400] , The classification unit

[0304] may identify each network element based on at least one of the plurality of pre-defined parameters such as network-element-type. The network-element-type may include one or more elements, which may include one of routers, switches, servers, firewalls, and other networking hardware known in the art of the network infrastructure.

[0139] Further, the classification unit

[0304] may classify the plurality of networks elements based on the vendor for each network-element-type. The classification unit

[0304] may further classify the plurality of networks based on the vendor that may help in identifying one or more similar issues within a same vendor. Such as if there are three vendors (suppose Vendor A, Vendor B, and Vendor C), then the classification unit

[0304] may classify the network elements that are associatedwith Vendor A and simultaneously, the network elements associated with the Vendor B and Vendor C, respectively. The classification of each network elements based on the Vendor may assist in identifying the one or more similar issues that may relate to specific protocols, firmware updates, and maintenance procedures associated with the same vendor.

[0140] Further, the classification unit

[0304] may classify each network element based on softwareversion or firmware currently running on said network element. The classification of said network element on the basis of software-version, may help in ensuring that whether each network element from the plurality of network elements, are operating within the latest updates and patches of said software -version.

[0141] Further, the classification unit

[0304] may further classify each network element based on the region. Here, a region parameter from the plurality of pre-defined parameters may refer to a geographical location of each network element. The region parameter may also include any manmade boundaries such as borders, culture or similar. One such example may be described as an urban region, a suburban region, and a rural region. Further, the region parameter may further assist in management of issues in the plurality of network elements that are faced by similar geographical location. Such issues faced by the plurality of network elements in rural region may differ to the issues faced by the plurality of network elements in the urban region.

[0142] Further, the classification unit

[0304] may further classify each network element based on the terrain. Herein, a terrain parameter from the plurality of pre-defined parameters may refer to a physical environment which includes but not limited to a particular landforms, elevation and similar, in which the network element is deployed.

[0143] Furthermore, it may again be noted that the classification of the plurality of network elements are not limited on at least the network-element-type, the vendor, the software-version, the region and the terrain and further one or more parameters known to a person skilled in the art may be utilized for further classification of the plurality of network elements.

[0144] At step

[0408] , the method

[0400] comprises correlating, by a correlation unit

[0306] , each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification. Herin the classified network elements are referred to the network elements that are furtherclassified by the classification unit based on the plurality of parameters such as the networkelement-type, the vendor, the software-version, the region, and the terrain.

[0145] The method

[0400] further explains that the correlation unit

[0306] may correlate each of the plurality of the network elements with the corresponding template. Herein the corresponding template may include a pre-defined configuration that is specific to one of a network element from the plurality of network elements. For example, a corresponding template for the Vendor A may include one or more recommend settings (such as routing protocols, security features, and performance optimizations) that is specific to the one or more network elements associated with the Vendor A and may not be applicable to the one or more network elements that are associated with the Vendor B. Further, the template for each unique classification of the network elements is created by network administrators, engineers or any other person known in the skill of art and may further stored in the storing unit

[0316] for easily fetching the required template when necessary.

[0146] Furthermore, it may be again noted that such classification of the plurality the network elements are only exemplary, and any other type of classification may also be captured and would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0147] At step

[0410] , the method

[0400] comprises comparing, by a comparison unit

[0308] , a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Herein, the set of current configuration parameters may reflect one or more values for the one or more parameters associated with a specific network element. Further, the set of optimal parameters may reflect the one or more values that each network element must attain to functional effectively.

[0148] The method

[0400] further explains that the comparison unit

[0308] mentioned herein may fetch the configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements and then may fetch the optimal parameters from the corresponding template that are associated for each of the plurality of network elements, by the correlation unit

[0306] , Thereafter, the comparison unit

[0308] may compare said configuration parameters with said optimal parameters.

[0149] For ease of understanding, considering an example: in case the current configuration parameters (suppose software version) for a network element is an outdated software version, the comparison unit

[0308] , in such case, post comparing the current configuration parameters of thenetwork element, the comparison unit

[0308] may determine that the network element may lack some important security patches.

[0150] At step

[0412] , the method

[0400] comprises generating, by a generation unit

[0310] , an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements.

[0151] The method

[0400] further explains that based on the comparison conducted by the comparison unit

[0308] , for evaluating the current configuration parameters of each network element against the optimal parameters specified in the corresponding templates of said network element, the generation unit

[0310] then may generate the audit report based on the comparison outcomes of the comparison unit

[0308] , The audit report of a specific network element may reflect as a comprehensive document that assesses the health and security of the network element. The audit report of a specific network element may further assist in identifying any vulnerabilities of said network element and the area of improvement for said network element.

[0152] The method

[0400] further explains that audit report may categorize the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements. For example, an exemplary audit report for an exemplary network element, say ‘X’ of vendor, say ‘A’, has been depicted below in Table 1 (as also provided above).Table 1

[0153] For example, an exemplary audit report for an exemplary network element, say ‘Y’ of vendor, say ‘B’, has been depicted below in Table 2 (as also provided above).Table 2

[0154] For example, an exemplary audit report for an exemplary network element, say ‘Z’ of vendor, say ‘C’, has been depicted below in Table 3 (as also provided above).Table 3

[0155] Herein, the header of the audit report for each network elements are the parameter 1, the parameter 2, the parameter 3, the parameter 4, and the parameter 5. Further, the above-mentioned parameters may refer to at least one of a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters, and any other parameters that may provide the network element data of the network element X, the network element Y, and the network element Z. Further, it is to be noted that the parameters of each of network elements may vary and it is also not necessarily, that each network element may have same parameters. However, for an ease of understanding we have taken similar parameters for sake of clarity.

[0156] It may be noted that the above-mentioned audit reports and the values of parameters taken are just exemplary, and have been depicted only for the sake of explanation and illustration. The above-provided parameter ranges and the format of the audit report, in no manner, is construed to limit the scope of the present subject matter in any manner. The generation unit

[0310] may generatean audit report in any format for any number of network elements. All such examples would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0157] Further, the audit report may further categorize each of the plurality of network elements based on the comparison outcomes of the comparison unit

[0308] , such as the success outcome may indicate that the current configuration parameters of a specific network element match the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of said specific template. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned table of the network element X, all the current configuration parameters match with the with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template X) of the network element X. Further, in such a case, the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element X as the success outcome.

[0158] Further, the partial success outcome may indicate that the current configuration parameters of a specific network element are somewhat matching the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of said specific template. Further, the partial success outcome may indicate that there may be some deviations in said current configuration parameters from the said corresponding template. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned table of the network element Y, the current configuration parameters such as the parameter 1, the parameter 3, and the parameter 5 matches with the with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template Y) of the network element Y. Further, in such a case, the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element Y as the partial-success outcome.

[0159] Furthermore, the failure outcome may indicate that the current configuration parameters of a specific network element are deviating from the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of said specific template. Further, the failure outcome of a specific network element from the plurality of network elements may indicate that the said specific network element is configured improperly and may lead to performance issues, security vulnerabilities, or operational inefficiencies for said specific network element. For ease of understanding, based on the above- mentioned table of the network element Z, none of the current configuration parameters match with the with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template Z) of the network element Z. Further, in such case, the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element Z as the failure outcome.

[0160] At step

[0414] , the method

[0400] comprises identifying, by an identification unit

[0312] , a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome. The list of differing parameters may refer to one or more current configuration parameters present in the audit report that do not match with the optimal parameters outlined in the corresponding template of a specific network element.

[0161] At step

[0416] , the method

[0400] comprises extracting, by an extraction unit

[0314] , a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. The set of corrected values refers to the ideal values that are mentioned in the corresponding template of each network element. The extraction unit

[0314] based on the list of differing parameters, may further extract the correct values from the corresponding template of each network element. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned audit report of the network element Y, the identification unit

[0312] may identify that the parameter 2 (such as 5386 148), and the parameter 4 (such as 3258 4897) are in the list of differing parameters. Further, the extraction unit

[0314] may extract the set of corrected values such as T2 (suppose 5148), and V2 (suppose 4897) from the corresponding template Y.

[0162] At step

[0418] , the method

[0400] comprises segregating, by a processing unit

[0318] , the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. Further, the network equipment mentioned here may refer to the network element that may provide data exchange or communication between one or more devices that are connected within the network infrastructure. Furthermore, the vendor associated with the network equipment may reflect an entity that may manufacture, sell or provide support to the network equipment for facilitation of the data exchange or communication. Further, the EMS is used to monitor one or more network elements in a large infrastructure.

[0163] At step

[0420] , the method

[0400] comprises creating, by a processing unit

[0318] , a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. For example, post extracting the set of corrected values from the from the corresponding template of the plurality of network elements, based on the list of differing parameters, the processing unit

[0318] may segregate the each of the plurality of network elements in the set of groups, which may include the network elements with either one of the similar type of network equipment, the similar vendor associated with the network equipment, or the similar element management system (EMS) thatmay use to manage the network elements. The segregation of the plurality of network elements is done due to the differing functions and configuration needs of each of the plurality of network elements. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned audit report of the network element Y, the processing unit

[0318] may further segregate the parameter P2 and the parameter P4 in same group as the parameter P2 and the parameter P4 may associated with same vendor (suppose Vendor B).

[0164] Thereafter, the processing unit

[0318] may create a work order for each of the set of groups. Each work order may include a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values. The configuration change command mentioned herein may include one or more necessary adjustments that may need to be done on an existing configuration of a specific network element.

[0165] Further, the work order for each group from the set of groups may include a detailed instructions for adjusting the differing parameters of said group to their corrected values as mentioned in the corresponding template of the network elements of said group. For ease of understanding, based on the above-mentioned audit report of the network element Y, the processing unit

[0318] may further generate the work order for the group that involves the parameter P2 and the parameter P4. For more clarification, let’s suppose the network element Y is a router, then the work order may include a detailed instructions for rectifying the current configuration parameter values (suppose 5386, and 3258) to the optimal parameter values (5148, and 4897) which may include updating the routing protocols of said router (i.e. network element Y). Further, in another scenario, let’s suppose the network element Z is a switch, then the work order may include a detailed instructions to update VLAN configurations of said switch (i.e. network element Z).

[0166] It may be again noted that such work order mentioned herein are only exemplary, and any other work order may also be captured and would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0167] At step

[0422] , the method

[0400] comprises executing, by the processing unit

[0318] , the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters of said network element. Further, the work order for each group from the set of groups may include a detailed instructions for adjusting the differing parameters of said group to their corrected values as mentioned in the corresponding template of the network elements of said group. For ease of understanding, the processing unit

[0318] may further send the work orderto the EMS corresponding to the network element Y. Thereafter, the EMS may then execute the work order (updating the routing protocols) on the network element Y.

[0168] The method

[0400] further explains the extraction unit

[0314] may extract a set of output configuration parameters from the network element after execution of the work order. In one example, the set of output configuration parameters may include the adjusted values in the current configuration parameters and settings that may applied on the plurality of network elements by corresponding EMS.

[0169] For ease in understanding, explaining the above-mentioned paragraph with an example: consider the exemplary scenario of network element Y, where the work order generated for network element Y includes updating the routing protocols. Post implementation of the work order on the network element Y, the current configuration parameter may now change such as the value of parameter 2 for the network element Y may now change from ‘5386’ to ‘5148’. Similarly, the value of parameter 4 for the network element Y may now change from ‘3258’ to ‘3965’. Further, the change in the current configuration parameters and settings of the network element Y may now be termed as the output configuration parameters of the network element Y. Thereafter, the extraction unit

[0314] may further extract the set of output configuration parameters from the network element Y.

[0170] The method

[0400] further explains that post extracting the set of output configuration parameters from the plurality of network elements, the storing unit

[0316] may store the set of output configuration parameters may be stored in a server. In one example, the storing unit

[0316] may store the set of output configuration parameters for each of the plurality of network elements in an organized manner for further reference of said output configuration parameters. In another example, the server may act as a database that may provide access to a historical configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements along with changes implicated in the configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements.

[0171] The method

[0400] further explains that the comparison unit

[0308] may further compare the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. For ease of understanding, for the network element Y, the comparison unit

[0308] may again compare the set of output configuration parameters (updated parameter P2 suppose ‘5148’ and ‘3965’) with thepredefined values (‘5148’ and ‘4897’) from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template Y.

[0172] The method

[0400] further explains that, in cases where the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters is done with the predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, the generation unit

[0310] , in such cases, may generate the audit report accordingly. Furthermore, the audit report may be generated for each of the plurality of network element. For ease of understanding: for the network element Y, the new audit report may be now presented as shown below in Table 4 (as also provided above).Table 4

[0173] The method

[0400] further explains that the audit report may further categorize each of the plurality of network elements based on the comparison outcomes of the comparison unit

[0308] , such as the success outcome, the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome.

[0174] The method

[0400] further explains that the identification unit

[0312] may again identify the list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome. Thereafter, the extraction unit

[0314] may again extract the set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. For ease of understating, for the network element Y, the identification unit

[0312] may again identify that the output configuration parameters such as the parameter 1, the parameter 2, the parameter 3, and the parameter 5 matches with the with the optimal parameters that are present in the corresponding template (suppose template Y) of the network element Y, but still the comparison unit

[0308] may define the comparison outcome of the network element Y as the partial-success outcome as the parameter 4 of the output configuration parameters (3965) of the network element Y may not match with the optimal parameters (4897) that are present in the template Y.

[0175] The method

[0400] further explains that the processing unit

[0318] may again segregate the list of differing parameters into the set of groups based on at least one of type of the network equipment, the vendor associated with the network equipment, and the element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element. For ease of understanding, considering the network element Y, the processing unit

[0318] may again segregate the parameter P4 in same group as the parameter P4 is associated with same vendor (i.e. Vendor B).

[0176] The method

[0400] further explains that the processing unit

[0318] may again create the work order for each of the set of groups. Each work order may include the configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values.

[0177] The method

[0400] further explains that the processing unit

[0318] may again execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements. For ease of understanding, the processing unit

[0318] may further send the work order to the EMS corresponding to the network element Y. Thereafter, the EMS may then again execute the work order (updating the firewall settings) on the network element Y. It is to be noted that the word order may change based on a failure of the previous work order and is totally dependent on the type of network element and the parameter associated with the network element.

[0178] The method

[0400] further explains that the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template may be repeated n times, ‘n’ is a number determined based on the plurality of network elements matching their associated value of the template.

[0179] The n times mentioned here may reflect a number of times the process of comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, is repeated in order until said output configuration parameters matches with said predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. The n times may indicate an integer value and may include (1 time, 2 times, 3 times, n times).

[0180] The method further explains that the generation unit

[0310] may generate an alarm for parameters that are not changeable due to network issues or software issues, indicating a need for manual intervention.

[0181] Further, the generation unit

[0310] may further indicate the parameters that requires an authorized personal (a person or a group of person skilled in the art) to rectify the network issues or software issues related to a specific network element from the plurality of network elements. Furthermore, the network issues mentioned here may arise from network problems such as connectivity disruptions, hardware malfunctions, or conflicts with existing configurations of said specific network element. Further, the software issues mentioned here may include bugs or version incompatibilities of said specific network element.

[0182] For ease in understanding, considering an exemplary scenario for the network element Y, the work order generated for the network element Y includes updating the routing protocols and updating the firewall settings of the network element Y. Further, in case the comparison unit

[0308] may further detect that the set of output configuration parameters may not match with the predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template Y, then in such case the generation unit

[0310] may generate the alarm along with specifying other details (such as the parameters, associated vendors, previously work orders and similar), for ensuring that the set of output configuration parameters matches with the set of optimal parameters, via a manual intervention.

[0183] The method

[0400] further terminates at step

[0424] ,

[0184] Referring to FIG. 5, an exemplary method flow diagram

[0500] for real-time configuration and auditing of network elements, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown. In an implementation the method

[0500] is performed by the system

[0300] , Further, in an implementation, the system

[0300] may be present in a server device to implement the features of the present disclosure. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the method

[0500] starts at step

[0502] and proceeds to step

[0504] ,

[0185] At step

[0504] , “NE data” is depicted, which implies that the system

[0300] is to ingest a network Element (NE) data. Further, the ingestion of the NE data may refer to the process of collecting, importing, or acquiring the network data from various network elements. The network element can be any device or equipment in a telecommunications network, such as a base station, router, switch, or server. Further, these network elements generate and store a wealth of information including operational data, system logs, performance metrics, configurations, andstatus reports. The NE data is crucial for network monitoring, performance optimization, troubleshooting, and decision-making.

[0186] Further, the NE data ingestion may include data collection which involves reaching out to the network elements to collect the NE data. The process could be accomplished in a variety of ways depending on the nature of the network and the devices themselves.

[0187] At step

[0506] , “Audit NE Parameter” is depicted which implies that the system

[0300] further classifies each network element based on one or more parameters which may include at least one of a vendor, a network-element-type, a software-version, a region, a terrain. This classification allows for better management, monitoring, and configuration of network elements, especially in a network that has a mix of equipment from various vendors, operating in different environments, and running different software versions.

[0188] The system

[0300] further associates associating each network element with a template based on its classification is an essential step for efficient and automated management of the network. These templates may reflect as a set of pre-defined optimal settings or parameters for each network element (NE) type, such as specific characteristics and operational context of said network element type.

[0189] Before this step, “Template based on the vendor, Network Element (NE) type & Software (SW) version” is depicted, which implies that one or more network administrators, engineers or any other person known in the skill of art may create templates for each unique classification. For example, there could be a template for network elements from Vendor A, running Software Version 1.2.3, of Type X, and located in Urban region. Further, each template would include optimal settings for the network parameters relevant to that specific configuration. The system

[0300] would use the classification data gathered in the previous step to match each network element to the appropriate template. For example, if a network element has been classified as coming from Vendor B, running Software Version 3.4.5, of Type Y, and located in Rural region, the system

[0300] would associate the network elements with the template designed forthat specific combination. Once the correct template has been identified, the system

[0300] would associate that template with the network element in its database or management software as shown in FIG. 5. This means that the system

[0300] records that this specific network element should ideally follow the configurations specified in the associated template.

[0190] Further, the system

[0300] extracts the current parameter values from each network element. These values could be settings, configuration options, or other data points that influence the behavior and performance of the network element. Further, the extraction is done by analyzing the network data ingested from the network element during the data ingestion process. The system

[0300] then retrieves the corresponding template for each network element based on the association made in the previous steps. This template contains the pre-defined optimal values for each parameter that should be present in the network element. The system

[0300] then compares the extracted parameter values from each network element with the pre-defined values in the associated template. The result of this comparison is then recorded in an audit report. The report might indicate a status of 'Success' if all parameters match their template values, 'Partial Success' if some but not all parameters match, or 'Failure' if none of the parameters match their template values. The system

[0300] based on comparing the extracted parameter values from each network element with the pre-defined values in the associated template, then generates an audit report. The audit report of a particular network element may contain the details of the template associated with the network elements, the current parameter values of the network element, and the expected parameter values as per the template.

[0191] At step

[0508] , “No Discrepancy in Parameter List” is depicted, which implies that in case all of the parameters of the network element match the expected values in the template, the audit outcome for that element is categorized as 'Success.' This indicates that the network element is correctly configured. In such cases, the system

[0300] identifies that there is no discrepancy in the parameter list and the system

[0300] may halt the method

[0500] after a pre-defined period of time.

[0192] At step

[0510] , “Differing Parameter List” is depicted, which implies that in case, some of the parameters of the network element match the expected values in the template, but others do not, the audit outcome forthat element is categorized as 'Partial-Success.' This signifies that while the network element is mostly configured correctly, some aspects require attention. Further, in case none of the parameters of the network element match the expected values in the template, the audit outcome for that element is categorized as 'Failure.' This indicates that the network element is not correctly configured and needs immediate attention. The audit outcome categorized as ‘Partial- Success’ and ‘Failure’ states that there is differing parameter list.

[0193] At step

[0512] , “Map Differing Parameter to Correct Values” is depicted, which implies that after the audit, the system

[0300] goes through each 'Partial-Success' and 'Failure' outcome and identifies the parameters that do not match their expected values. The system

[0300] then furthercompare the current parameter values of each network element to the values specified in the associated template, and noting any differences. The system

[0300] consolidates all these differing parameters from all the network elements into a single global list. Each entry in this list would include details about the network element, the parameter that is incorrect, the current incorrect value, and the expected value as per the template. Alongside the current incorrect values, the system

[0300] also extracts the optimal or correct value that the parameter should ideally have, according to the template. For example, if a network element has a parameter 'X' with a current value of 10, but the template associated with that element specifies that the value of 'X' should be 20, then 10 is the incorrect value and 20 is the correct value.

[0194] At step

[0514] , “Create Work Order (WO) of Segregated NE parameters per Vendor per EMS” is depicted, which implies that the system

[0300] uses three main criteria to segregate the global list: the type of network element the vendor of the network element and the element management system (EMS) that manages the network element as mentioned in the FIG. 5 in form of “Recipe of Parameter for Vendor + NE type + SW version”. The system

[0300] initiates the segregation process by scanning through each entry in the global list. For each entry, the system

[0300] checks the network element type, the vendor, and the associated EMS. The system

[0300] then places this entry into a group that corresponds to the mentioned attributes (the network element type, the vendor, and the associated EMS). For example, all routers managed by a specific EMS would be grouped together or gNB / eNB / ODSC / IDSC network elements can be managed by a specific EMS by grouping them together. After the segregation process, there would be multiple segregated lists. Each list contains entries with the same network element type, vendor, and EMS. Further, after the segregation of the global list into multiple lists based on the network element type, vendor, and associated EMS, the system

[0300] generates a separate work order for each EMS. Each work order comprises the changes required for the network elements managed by that specific EMS. The work orders include the details of each network element, the parameter that requires modification, and the correct value that the parameter should be updated to.

[0195] At step

[0016] , “Execute WO on EMS” is depicted, which implies that the system

[0300] then maps the required changes in each work order to the appropriate configuration change commands understood by the EMS. For example, if a network element needs a bandwidth parameter updated, the system

[0300] would convert this requirement into the specific command that the EMS uses to change the bandwidth of a network element. The system

[0300] then sends the work orders to the respective EMS. The EMS, in turn, executes these orders on the associatednetwork elements. This involves the EMS processing the configuration change commands and applying the specified changes to the parameters of each network element.

[0196] At step

[0518] , “Parameter Output” is depicted, which implies that post execution of the work orders, the system

[0300] reinitiates the audit process for all network elements based on the parameter output of the work orders on the all the network elements.

[0197] At step

[0520] , “Audit Egress Parameter Data” is depicted, which implies that based on the parameter output of the work orders on the all the network elements. The system

[0300] again compares the parameter values of the network elements with the correct values mentioned in the corresponding template. If a discrepancy still exists after applying the changes from the work order, then the process is identified in this re-audit. Based on the re-audit results, the system

[0300] evaluates the outcomes. If there is a 'Success' for a network element, meaning all the parameters match the correct values, then no further action is needed for that network element. However, if the outcome is a 'Partial-Success' or 'Failure', meaning some or all of the parameters do not match their correct values, then the process continues to the next step

[0010] , If discrepancies persist after a defined number of retries (suppose n), the system

[0300] may stop trying to change these parameters to avoid an endless loop of unsuccessful attempts. The number of retries is a configurable parameter and can be set according to the needs of the network administrator. If, however, all parameters of all network elements match their respective correct values before the number of retries is exhausted, the system

[0300] stops the iterative process as the goal of the present invention has been achieved.

[0198] In an exemplary scenario, considering a 5G network with millions of network elements across the country. These elements come from two vendors: Vendor A and Vendor B, and they operate in three types of region: Urban, Rural. Each vendor uses different software versions for different areas (For example, Software Version 1.2.3 for Urban, and Software Version 2.3.4 for Rural). Further, the system

[0300] collects data from all these network elements every hour. For instance, one network element located in a city (Urban) is from Vendor A and may operate on Software Version 1.2.3. Thereafter, the system

[0300] classifies this network element as "Vendor A, Software Version 1.2.3, Urban." Based on this classification, the system

[0300] thereafter associates each network element with a specific template. The template for "Vendor A, Software Version 1.2.3, Urban" has predefined optimal parameters for network elements that fit this category. Thereafter, the system

[0300] compares the actual parameters of the network element with the ones defined in the specific template. Suppose the system

[0300] finds that out of 100 parameters, 80match the template, but 20 don't. Thereafter, the system

[0300] generates the audit report based on the comparison, highlighting the 80 parameters that match with the specific template, along with the 20 parameters that do not match with the specific template. Thereafter, the system

[0300] categorizes this network element as 'Partial-Success' since some parameters (80) match the template, but some (20) don't. Thereafter, the system

[0300] lists the 20 differing parameters and thereafter the system

[0300] retrieves the set of corrected values from the associated template. Suppose after auditing all network elements, the system

[0300] further finds 1,000 parameters in 'Partial-Success' or 'Failure' state. Thereafter, the system

[0300] segregates these parameters based on their network element type, vendor, and EMS. Thereafter, the system

[0300] creates a work order for each EMS containing the commands to correct the parameters in the network elements. Thereafter, the system

[0300] then executes these work orders to update the parameters in the actual network elements. The system

[0300] repeats the audit after executing the work orders, and if the system

[0300] still finds parameters that don't match the template, then the system

[0300] repeats the process until either all parameters match their templates, or the number of retries is exhausted.

[0199] The method

[0500] terminates at step

[0522] ,

[0200] Referring to FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of a system architecture

[0600] of an internal network associated with a plurality of network elements

[0608] , The system architecture

[0600] as per the present disclosure comprises at least one of a Demilitarized zone (DMZ)

[0602] , at least one of a non-demilitarized zone (non-DMZ)

[0604] , and at least one of an element management layer

[0606] .

[0201] The element management layer

[0606] may further comprise the plurality of network elements

[0608] that may relate to one or more vendors. Further, the one or more network elements

[0608] may include at least one or more network nodes that are used within the telecommunication network. Herein, each vendor from the one or more vendors may manage or own the plurality of network elements

[0608] , Further, the element management layer

[0606] also comprise an element management system (EMS) which manages the one or more network elements

[0608] that are related to each vendor from the one or more vendors. For ease of understanding, explaining the above mentioned with an exemplary scenario: consider a plurality of network elements (such as NE_1, NE_2, NE_3, NE_4, and NE_5). Further, the NE_1, the NE_2 and the NE_3 may associate with a vendor A. Also, the NE_4 and the NE_5 may associate with a vendor B. Therefore, in such case the Vendor A may have an EMS A for managing the NE_1, the NE_2 and the NE_3. Similarly, the Vendor B may have an EMS B for managing the NE_4 and the NE_5.

[0202] The element management layer

[0606] is further connected to the non-DMZ

[0604] via at least one of a Secure File Transfer Protocol, a RSYNC, a Representational State Transfer (REST) Application Programming Interface (API), and a Command Line Interface (CLI), for transferring one or more essential information associated with the plurality of network elements

[0608] to a Hadoop Cluster present at the non-DMZ

[0604] , Herein, the non-DMZ

[0604] may refer to a layer of protected internal network for operating critical data.

[0203] Further, the SFTP is a secure method of transferring fdes to one or more units, over a network. Further, the RSYNC may be used for synchronizing fdes (comprising the one or more essential information) and directories to the one or more units, over the network. Further, the REST API facilitates a communication over the network using one or more standard Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP) method. Furthermore, the CLI is primarily a text-based interface that is used for interaction between the one or more units over the network.

[0204] Further, the Hadoop cluster may further comprise at least one Distributed File System (DFS)

[0610] , and at least one base

[0612] , As used herein, the DFS

[0610] and base

[0612] may store large set of the one or more essential information associated with the plurality of network elements

[0608] , The DFS

[0610] and base

[0612] may store the one or more essential information in a distributed manner across multiple nodes for easy availability of the one or more essential information when required.

[0205] Further, at least one job

[0614] is connected to the base

[0612] for processing (such as data transformations, aggregations, and analysis) of the large sets of data to derive a meaningful information from the one or more essential information.

[0206] The non-DMZ

[0604] further comprises a gateway server

[0616] , an Application (APP) server

[0618] , one or more services

[0620] , and an API gateway

[0622] , Herein, the gateway server

[0616] may be used to connect internal networks to one or more external systems by managing the incoming and ongoing traffic from the internal network. Herein, the internal network is referred to a private and secured network that is protected from any external access, wherein the one or more external systems may refer to an end user, a third-party application, any partner network or similar that may interact with the internal network.

[0207] As used herein, the APP server

[0618] may further assist in hosting and running one or more applications that are connected with internal network. Further, as used herein, the one or more services

[0620] may refer to a service that may perform specific tasks within the internal network. Some examples of the services are database services, authentication services, logging services and similar known to a person skill in the art.

[0208] As used herein, the API gateway

[0622] may manage one or more requests such as routing traffic between networks, translating data formats or communication protocols to facilitate communication between different types of devices.

[0209] The non-DMZ

[0604] are further connected to the DMZ

[0602] , where the DMZ

[0602] may refer to a protection layer between the internal networks and the one or more external networks. The DMZ

[0602] further comprises one or more web servers

[0624] , and a load balancer layer

[0626] , Herein, the one or more web servers

[0624] may facilitate web content as requested by the one or more external systems.

[0210] As used herein, the load balancer layer

[0626] comprises one or more load balancers. The one or more load balancers enables distribution of network traffic dynamically across resources which may be to support the one or more external systems. The one or more load balancers may also be shared by the non-DMZ

[0604] , Further, the DMZ

[0602] may incorporate a firewall for controlling and filtering the incoming and the outgoing data traffic. The firewall may further protect the DMZ

[0602] from external attacks, while still allowing other necessary communication.

[0211] The present disclosure further discloses a network element. The network element may include a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor may be configured to transmit a network data to a system

[0300] , The network data may be used by the system

[0300] for real-time configuration and auditing of the network element. The real-time configuration and auditing of the network element may be done by the system

[0300] based on: on ingesting the network data from the network element, classifying the network element based on at least one of a plurality of parameters; correlating the classified network element with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification; comparing a set of current configuration parameters of the network element with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; generating an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality ofnetwork elements; identifying a list of differing parameters of the network element associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome; extracting a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; segregating the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element; creating a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and executing the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters.

[0212] The present disclosure further discloses a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for real-time configuration and auditing of network element, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system

[0300] , causes: a transceiver unit

[0302] to ingest network data from a plurality of network elements. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a classification unit

[0304] to classify each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a correlation unit

[0306] to associate each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on the classification. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a comparison unit

[0308] to compare a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a generation unit

[0310] to generate an audit report based on the comparison, the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of success outcome, partial success outcome, and failure outcome for each network element. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes an identification unit

[0312] to identify a list of differing parameters for each network element with at least partial success outcome, and failure outcome. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes an extraction unit

[0314] to extract a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes a processing unit

[0318] to segregate the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of type of network equipment, vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used tomanage the network element. Further, the instructions include executable code, which when executed causes the processing unit

[0318] to create a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values, and execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.

[0213] As is evident from the above, the present disclosure provides a technically advanced solution for real-time configuration and auditing of network element. The present solution automates the process of updating, modifying, and auditing network parameters across a multitude of devices from various vendors and across differing software versions. Further, the present solution enables rapid deployment and application of configuration templates to specific network elements based on certain conditions, such as region, terrain, and network-element type. This would dramatically reduce the time taken for these processes from weeks / months to minutes. Further, the present solution allows real time or daily audit of tens of millions of network parameters, identifying discrepancies, and rectifying them quickly. The present solution adapts adapt to the parameters and templates of multiple vendors and different software versions, allowing for better cross-compatibility and interoperability. The present solution identifies parameters that cannot be changed and flags them for manual intervention, speeding up problem resolution and improving network performance. The present solution further manages and audit a massive number of network elements efficiently, handling billions of parameters across the network. The present solution can be further implemented in future technologies such as Sixthgeneration (6G) technologies.

[0214] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the disclosed implementations, it will be appreciated that many implementations can be made and that many changes can be made to the implementations without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. These and other changes in the implementations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, whereby it is to be understood that the foregoing descriptive matter to be implemented is illustrative and non-limiting.

[0215] Further, in accordance with the present disclosure, it is to be acknowledged that the functionality described for the various components / units can be implemented interchangeably. While specific embodiments may disclose a particular functionality of these units for clarity, it is recognized that various configurations and combinations thereof are within the scope of the disclosure . The functionality of specific units as disclosed in the disclosure should not be construedas limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Consequently, alternative arrangements and substitutions of units, provided they achieve the intended functionality described herein, are considered to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A method [400] for real-time configuration and auditing of a network element, the method [400] comprising: ingesting, by a transceiver unit [302], a network data from a plurality of network elements; classifying, by a classification unit [304], each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters; correlating, by a correlation unit [306], each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification; comparing, by a comparison unit [308], a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; generating, by a generation unit [310], an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements; identifying, by an identification unit [312], a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome; extracting, by an extraction unit [314], a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; segregating, by a processing unit [318], the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element; creating, by a processing unit [318], a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and executing, by the processing unit [318], the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters.

2. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of predetermined parameters comprises at least a vendor, a network-element-type, a software-version, a region, and a terrain.

3. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ingesting network data from the plurality of network elements occurs in real-time.

4. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method [400] comprises: extracting, by the extraction unit [314], a set of output configuration parameters from the network element after execution of the work order; and storing, by a storing unit [316], the set of output configuration parameters in a server.

5. The method [400] as claimed in claim 4, wherein the method [400] comprises: comparing, by the comparison unit [308], the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; generating, by the generation unit [310], the audit report based on the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of the success outcome, the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements; identifying, by the identification unit [312], the list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements with at least the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome; extracting, by the extraction unit [314], the set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; segregating, by the processing unit [318], the list of differing parameters into the set of groups based on at least one of the type of the network equipment, the vendor associated with the network equipment, and the EMS used to manage the network element; creating, by the processing unit [318], the work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises the configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and executing, by the processing unit [318], the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.

6. The method [400] as claimed in claim 5, wherein the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template is repeated n times, and wherein n is a number determined based on the plurality of network elements matching their associated value of the template.

7. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, further comprising generating, by the generation unit [310], alarms for parameters that are not changeable due to network issues or software issues, indicating a need for manual intervention.

8. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the audit report is generated for each of the plurality of network element.

9. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ingesting of the network data comprises capturing information from each of the plurality of the network element relating to a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters.

10. A system [300] for real-time configuration and auditing of a network element, the system [300] comprising: a transceiver unit [302] configured to ingest a network data from a plurality of network elements; a classification unit [304] configured to classify each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters; a correlation unit [306] configured to correlate each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification; a comparison unit [308] configured to compare a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; a generation unit [310] configured to generate an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements; an identification unit [312] configured to identify a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements with at least one of the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome; an extraction unit [314] configured to extract a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; a processing unit [318] configured to:segregate the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element; create a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters.

11. The system [300] as claimed in claim 10, wherein the plurality of predetermined parameters comprises at least a vendor, a network-element-type, a software-version, a region, and a terrain.

12. The system [300] as claimed in claim 10, wherein the ingesting network data from the plurality of network elements occurs in real-time.

13. The system [300] as claimed in claim 10, wherein: the extraction unit [314] is further configured to extract a set of output configuration parameters from the network element after execution of the work order; and a storing unit [316] is configured to store the set of output configuration parameters in a server.

14. The system [300] as claimed in claim 13, wherein: the comparison unit [308] further configured to compare the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with predefined values from the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; the generation unit [310] further configured to generate the audit report based on the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of the success outcome, the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements; the identification unit [312] further configured to identify the list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements with at least the partial success outcome, and the failure outcome;the extraction unit [314] further configured to extract the set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; the processing unit [318] further configured to: segregate the list of differing parameters into the set of groups based on at least one of the type of network equipment, the vendor associated with the network equipment, and the EMS used to manage the network element; create the work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises the configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in each of the plurality of network elements.

15. The system [300] as claimed in claim 14, wherein the comparison of the set of output configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the predefined values set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template is repeated n times, and wherein n is a number determined based on the plurality of network elements matching their associated value of the template.

16. The system [300] as claimed in claim 10, wherein the generation unit [310] is further configured to generate alarms for parameters that are not changeable due to network issues or software issues, indicating a need for manual intervention.

17. The system [300] as claimed in claim 10, wherein the audit report is generated for each of the plurality of network elements.

18. The system [300] as claimed in claim 10, wherein the ingesting of the network data comprises capturing information from each of the plurality of the network element relating to a current configuration setting, an operational status, a performance metric, and operational parameters.

19. A network element comprising : a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor is to:transmit a network data to a system [300], wherein the network data is used by the system [300] for real-time configuration and auditing of the network element based on: on ingesting the network data from the network element, classifying the network element based on at least one of a plurality of parameters; corelating the classified network element with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification; comparing a set of current configuration parameters of the network element with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; generating an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements; identifying a list of differing parameters of the network element associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome; extracting a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; segregating the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element; creating a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and executing the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for real-time configuration and auditing of a network element, the instructions comprising executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system [300], causes: a transceiver unit [302] of the system [300] to ingest a network data from a plurality of network elements; a classification unit [304] of the system [300] to classify each of the plurality of the network elements based on at least one of a plurality of parameters;a correlation unit [306] of the system [300] to correlate each of the plurality of classified network elements with at least a corresponding template, wherein each of the corresponding template comprises a set of optimal parameters based on a classification; a comparison unit [308] of the system [300] to compare a set of current configuration parameters of each of the plurality of network elements with the set of optimal parameters of the corresponding template; a generation unit [310] of the system [300] to generate an audit report based on the comparison, wherein the audit report categorizes the comparison outcomes into at least one of a success outcome, a partial success outcome, and a failure outcome for each of the plurality of network elements; an identification unit [312] of the system [300] to identify a list of differing parameters for each of the plurality of network elements associated with at least one of the partial success outcome and the failure outcome; an extraction unit [314] of the system [300] to extract a set of corrected values corresponding to the set of optimal parameters for the list of differing parameters from the corresponding template; a processing unit [318] of the system [300] to segregate the list of differing parameters into a set of groups based on at least one of a type of a network equipment, a vendor associated with the network equipment, and an element management system (EMS) used to manage the network element; a processing unit [318] of the system [300] to create a work order for each of the set of groups, wherein each work order comprises a configuration change command for adjusting the list of differing parameters to the set of corrected values; and the processing unit [318] of the system [300] to execute the work order on the corresponding EMS to implement the configuration change in at least one of the list of differing parameters.

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