Carter, TeresaSchneider, James2021-01-202021-01-202020-10-11http://hdl.handle.net/11558/5539This paper describes the necessity and benefits of using artificial intelligence to manage and secure computer networks in an information system. As the requirements and infrastructure of computer networks continue to increase in complexity, traditional, centrally managed network approaches are not going to be able to efficiently administer, optimize, and secure the networks of the future. The amount of data that is being collected and saved has increased by at least one order of magnitude. Network operators that collect and save this data could leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to allow the networks to be proactive rather than reactive, thus resulting in better performance and reliability. Some companies have already started innovating by adding virtual network assistants that are powered and driven by AI capabilities such as natural language processing. This allows for quicker troubleshooting and other insights. AI has also been leveraged for energy-efficient routing, prediction of network disruptions, intrusion detection, and other security-related issues. However, there is still plenty of work to be done to ensure that the wireless networks of the future are efficient and secure as data transfer and communication increases between consumers and mobile devices and for the infrastructure that is going to power essential services in the community. Nevertheless, AI should not be considered a silver bullet. The proper application of AI will require human intelligence as baseline for computer network operations. All those in the AI industry should work together to ensure knowledge is shared to prevent any negative consequences of mismanaged AI.en-USNetworksArtificial intelligenceMachine learning5G (Fifth Generation)6G (Sixth Generation)Networks, intent-basedNetworks, computerNetworks, wirelessThesis