Cisco Advanced Fault Management (AFM), a component of the Crosswork Network Automation suite, leverages machine learning (ML) to transition from reactive to proactive network operations. By analyzing historical and real-time telemetry data, ML algorithms identify subtle patterns and anomalies that precede network failures. This enables AFM to generate predictive insights and alerts, warning operators about potential faults before they occur and impact service quality. This predictive capability is a primary benefit of integrating machine learning into modern fault management systems.

B. It enables AFM to function without an Internet connection.

AFM's operational dependency on an internet connection is determined by its deployment architecture (typically on-premises), not by its use of machine learning.

C. It enables AFM to perform hardware upgrades on network devices.

AFM is a fault and event management tool. Performing hardware or software upgrades is a device lifecycle management function, outside the scope of AFM's purpose.

D. It enables AFM to consume fewer resources.

Machine learning models, especially for training and real-time analysis of large datasets, are computationally intensive and generally increase, rather than decrease, resource consumption.

1. Cisco Crosswork Network Automation Data Sheet. (2023). Cisco Systems, Inc.

Section: "Benefits"

Quote/Content: "Proactive and predictive insights: Cisco Crosswork uses machine learning to proactively identify and predict network issues before they impact service." This statement directly confirms that ML is used for predictive fault identification.

2. Cisco Crosswork Situation Manager and Advanced Fault Management 4.1 Data Sheet. (2023). Cisco Systems, Inc.

Section: "Product overview"

Quote/Content: "Crosswork Advanced Fault Management (AFM) uses machine learning to analyze events from the network and automatically correlate them into situations." This establishes the core use of ML for analysis, which is the foundation for prediction.

3. Cisco Crosswork Network Automation 4.1 At-a-Glance. (2023). Cisco Systems, Inc.

Section: "What it does"

Quote/Content: "It uses advanced analytics and machine learning to provide proactive and predictive insights, helping you address potential issues before they affect your customers." This reinforces the primary benefit of ML in the Crosswork suite, which includes AFM.