CP-AgentNet: Autonomous and Explainable Communication Protocol Design Using Generative Agents

Abstract

Although DRL (deep reinforcement learning) has emerged as a powerful tool for making better decisions than existing hand-crafted communication protocols, it faces significant limitations: 1) Selecting the appropriate neural network architecture and setting hyperparameters are crucial for achieving desired performance levels, requiring domain expertise. 2) The decision-making process in DRL models is often opaque, commonly described as a 'black box.' 3) DRL models are data hungry. In response, we propose CP-AgentNet, the first framework designed to use generative agents for developing communication network protocols. This approach addresses these challenges by creating an autonomous system for protocol design, significantly reducing human effort. We developed LLMA (LLM-agents-based multiple access) and CPTCP (CP-Agent-based TCP) for heterogeneous environments. Our comprehensive simulations have demonstrated the efficient coexistence of LLMA and CPTCP with nodes using different types of protocols, as well as enhanced explainability.