Inaugural editorial: bridging Intelligent Networking and Computing

It is with great enthusiasm and a profound sense of mission that we present the inaugural issue of Intelligent Networking and Computing (iNECT), an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal dedicated to high-quality original research on the design, analysis, and realization of networking and computing systems. Our focus lies at the intersection of these fields, specifically emphasizing the deep integration of learning-based, data-driven, and artificial intelligence (AI)-native methodologies.

We are currently standing at a pivotal moment in the evolution of digital infrastructure. The convergence of communication networks, distributed computing, and AI is reshaping the global technological landscape. Modern systems have progressed from collections of isolated components to highly interconnected, intelligent ecosystems. These systems enable autonomous coordination, adaptive optimization, and scalable innovation across complex environments. In this era of rapid transformation, the synergistic evolution of networking, computing, and intelligence forms the fundamental cornerstone of future information systems.

Addressing the above interdisciplinary challenges requires more than incremental updates. It demands new theoretical frameworks, architectural innovations, and robust algorithmic breakthroughs. iNECT was established to provide a dedicated platform that fosters such rigorous scholarship and forward-looking vision. To this end, the journal focuses on advancing research that integrates networking, computing, and intelligence through principled system design.

Our scope spans a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary topics centered on several core pillars. First, we seek research in networking systems and architectures that advance autonomous and adaptive connectivity, alongside innovations in computing systems and platforms that enhance the efficiency and scalability of distributed infrastructures. Furthermore, we focus on learning- and AI-integrated systems, where data-driven methodologies and foundation models are natively embedded into the system fabric. It is worth noting that the hallmark of the journal is its emphasis on intelligence as a primary design principle. We believe that true system-level intelligence emerges from integrated networking and computing, where the joint design and co-optimization of communication and computation bridge the gap between these traditionally separate domains. This integrated approach fosters cross-layer system intelligence, which is essential for supporting distributed training, inference, and serving across the end-edge-cloud continuum. Our vision is to ensure that intelligence is not just an add-on, but a fundamental property inherent in the system architecture itself. These technological foundations drive transformative applications and emerging systems. We are interested in how intelligent networked services empower sectors such as the Internet of Things, smart transportation, and industrial automation. By prioritizing secure, resilient, and AI-native design, iNECT aims to shape the next generation of applications that define our digital future.

As an open-access journal, iNECT is committed to the broad dissemination and equitable accessibility of scientific knowledge. We believe that the free exchange of ideas accelerates discovery, strengthens global collaboration, and amplifies societal impact. Through a transparent and rigorous peer-review process, we aim to uphold the highest standards of academic excellence and integrity, ensuring that every published work contributes meaningfully to the field.

The success of a journal depends entirely on the collective dedication of its authors, reviewers, editorial board members, and readers. We extend our sincere appreciation to all who have contributed and who will contribute to the development of this journal. We invite researchers, engineers, and practitioners worldwide to join us in building this vibrant scientific community. Through collective efforts, we aim to promote the development of resilient, efficient, and intelligent systems that will shape the future of the digital society.