Alliances and partnerships
Kyndryl accelerates momentum with Google Cloud to drive large-scale enterprise IT modernization for customers
Press release
23-Apr-2026
As cyber threats grow in scale and sophistication, Finnish telecom provider DNA is redefining its role, moving beyond connectivity to become a trusted cybersecurity partner for businesses. In collaboration with Kyndryl and powered by Google Security Operations, DNA has launched a new AI-enhanced, 24/7 security operations capability designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Here, Kaapro Kanto, Vice President for Cyber Security at DNA discusses the journey, the technology behind it, and what other organizations can learn from DNA’s approach.
As a leading telecom provider, what prompted DNA to move into AI-driven security operations?
Kaapro Kanto: Our starting point was a clear market signal. Our customers are facing rapidly rising cyber risks, regulatory pressure and a shortage of in-house security experts. The situation for SMEs was the most difficult, as big players in the market could not scale to these segments. In addition, we understood that cybersecurity is a great opportunity to expand our existing telecom services to meet customer expectations and deliver a new set of scalable and cost-effective services. To do that, we needed a new operating model, not just new tools.
Why was AI such a critical component of the new Security Operations Center (SOC)?
Kanto: The threat landscape has changed fundamentally. Attacks are faster, more automated, and increasingly AI-assisted. Traditional, manual security operations simply can’t keep up, especially when serving multiple customers at scale. AI allows us to continuously analyze vast amounts of security telemetry, identify anomalies earlier, and prioritize what truly matters. By building our Security Operations Center (SOC) on Google Security Operations, we’re able to combine AI-driven detection, automation and threat intelligence into a single platform that supports real-time response. That’s essential for delivering 24/7 security as a service.
What role did Kyndryl play in turning this idea into a working service?
Kanto: Kyndryl was a true co-creation partner from day one. We didn’t come to them with a fully defined request. We had an idea and some open questions. Kyndryl helped us pressure test that idea, shape the business case, and design both the technology platform and the operating model. Together, we defined what a scalable, AI-enhanced SOC should look like, how it would be staffed, and how it could evolve over time. That early incubation phase was critical. It gave us confidence that the concept was viable and allowed us to move quickly into a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and then into production.
DNA's journey
Start with the business objective, not the tools. Be honest about your gaps and choose partners who are willing to build with you — not just sell to you.
How does the new SOC differ from traditional security services?
Kanto: The biggest difference compared to a traditional SOC is the AI and data platform that allows us to operate 24/7 with a new scale of efficiency. The traditional SOC is still staffed with analysts who protect customer environments, whereas we rely on standardized services that are highly automated and can integrate into the customers’ ICT environments.
What impact has this had on DNA’s business so far?
Kanto: It has fundamentally changed how we partner with our customers. We now engage with them from a cybersecurity point of view, as that addresses a real and urgent need. Whether it is communication solutions, network services or pure cybersecurity, we start with security and resilience as these are on top of our customers’ minds in the current geopolitical situation.
Our experience shows that you don’t need to do everything yourself. By deploying cloud-based, AI-driven technology and working with the right services partner, it’s possible to launch enterprise-grade security services quickly and responsibly. The key lessons are co-creation, clarity of purpose, and focus on outcomes — not just technology.
What advice would you give to organizations considering a similar path?
Kanto: Start with the business objective, not the tools. Be honest about your gaps and choose partners who are willing to build with you — not just sell to you. AI is a powerful enabler, but it only delivers value when combined with the right operating model and expertise. And finally, invest in both internal and external relationships. Trust and collaboration made this journey possible for us.
