Towards Autonomous AI-Driven Network Management in 6G Wireless Systems: A Survey

Sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication systems are expected to deliver intelligent, pervasive and human-centric connectivity, extending beyond the capabilities of 5G through emerging technologies such as terahertz communications, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) and AI-native network architectures. This paper provides an in-depth survey of recent research on 6G technologies, associated challenges and future opportunities, with particular emphasis on autonomous network management. An AI-driven structure for zero-touch system orchestration in 6G environments is presented, combining circulated intelligence, intent-based networking and actual analytical mechanisms. The proposed structure is designed and assessed by simulation-based experiments, representing notable improvements in latency presentation, energy competence and network consistency. Simulation outcomes specify up to a 40% decrease in working overhead while keeping sub-millisecond inactivity under dynamic system conditions. Lastly, the paper plans open research trials and future guidelines, highlighting the status of consistent security devices and sustainable plan principles for large-scale 6G deployment.