The development of the sixth generation of communication networks (6G) has been gaining momentum over the past years, with a target of being introduced by 2030. Several initiatives worldwide are developing innovative solutions and setting the direction for the key features of these networks. Some common emerging themes are the tight integration of AI, the convergence of multiple access technologies and sustainable operation, aiming to meet stringent performance and societal requirements. To that end, we are introducing REASON - Realising Enabling Architectures and Solutions for Open Networks. The REASON project aims to address technical challenges in future network deployments, such as E2E service orchestration, sustainability, security and trust management, and policy management, utilising AI-native principles, considering multiple access technologies and cloud-native solutions. This paper presents REASON's architecture and the identified requirements for future networks. The architecture is meticulously designed for modularity, interoperability, scalability, simplified troubleshooting, flexibility, and enhanced security, taking into consideration current and future standardisation efforts, and the ease of implementation and training. It is structured into four horizontal layers: Physical Infrastructure, Network Service, Knowledge, and End-User Application, complemented by two vertical layers: Management and Orchestration, and E2E Security. This layered approach ensures a robust, adaptable framework to support the diverse and evolving requirements of 6G networks, fostering innovation and facilitating seamless integration of advanced technologies.

翻译：第六代通信网络（6G）的发展在过去数年间持续加速，目标是在2030年前实现商用。全球多个研究计划正在开发创新解决方案，并为这些网络的关键特性确立发展方向。人工智能的深度集成、多接入技术的融合以及可持续运营，正成为普遍涌现的核心主题，旨在满足严格的性能与社会需求。为此，我们提出REASON——面向开放网络的使能架构与解决方案实现。REASON项目致力于利用AI原生设计原则，结合多接入技术与云原生解决方案，应对未来网络部署中的端到端业务编排、可持续性、安全与信任管理以及策略管理等技术挑战。本文阐述了REASON的架构体系及针对未来网络所识别的需求。该架构充分考虑当前及未来的标准化进程，兼顾实施与训练的便捷性，以模块化、互操作性、可扩展性、故障排查简易性、灵活性及增强安全性为目标进行精心设计。其水平方向分为四层：物理基础设施层、网络服务层、知识层和终端用户应用层，并由两个垂直层面——管理与编排层以及端到端安全层——作为支撑。这种分层架构构建了一个强健且适应性强的框架，能够支持6G网络多样化且不断演进的需求，促进技术创新并实现先进技术的无缝集成。