Not sure where to start? Answer 3 questions and get a tailored compliance action plan.
What applies to me? →Proposal for a Regulation for the Digital Networks Act (DNA)
Issued by
European Commission
The Digital Networks Act is a legislative proposal introduced by the European Commission on January 21, 2026, addressing digital infrastructure and aspects of AI governance within the European Union. It is currently subject to co-legislative review and negotiation by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. The proposal is expected to impose obligations on entities operating or deploying digital network infrastructure, including those integrating AI-driven network management systems.
Applies To
Overview
The Digital Networks Act (DNA) was proposed by the European Commission on January 21, 2026, as part of the EU's broader digital policy agenda, which encompasses regulatory frameworks for connectivity, digital infrastructure, and AI-enabled network operations. The proposal aims to harmonize obligations across member states for entities managing or operating digital network infrastructure, with provisions that intersect with AI governance requirements where AI is used in network control, optimization, or security functions. As a proposed regulation, it would be directly applicable across all EU member states without requiring transposition into national law, ensuring uniform compliance standards. The proposal is currently in the early stages of the ordinary legislative procedure, with formal positions yet to be adopted by the European Parliament and Council; the timeline to enactment remains uncertain. Enforcement mechanisms, penalty structures, and supervisory authority designations are expected to be defined as the legislative text matures through negotiation. Enterprises with significant digital infrastructure operations in the EU, including telecommunications providers and cloud network operators leveraging AI systems, should monitor developments closely.
Key Requirements
- •Compliance obligations for operators of digital network infrastructure within the EU, including those using AI for network management or optimization
- •Harmonized standards for network security, resilience, and operational continuity across member states
- •Potential mandatory conformity or risk assessment procedures for AI systems integrated into critical network functions
- •Reporting and transparency obligations to designated national competent authorities
- •Specific thresholds, penalty amounts, and compliance timelines are not yet defined; details are subject to legislative negotiation
- •Alignment expected with existing EU instruments including the AI Act, NIS2 Directive, and European Electronic Communications Code