Deutsche Telekom Boosts IT Security with AI-Powered IBM Concert Automation

Deutsche Telekom, a global leader in telecommunications and IT services, has announced its implementation of IBM Concert, an AI-powered automation solution designed to enhance IT operations by streamlining patch management and orchestrating security-related activities. (newsroom.ibm.com)
Patch management is a critical component of software lifecycle management, ensuring systems remain secure, functional, and up-to-date. However, the process is often complex and time-consuming, involving coordination among application owners, development teams, security personnel, and operations staff. The manual steps required to prepare, execute, and document the patching process can increase the risk of errors and delays.
IBM Concert addresses these challenges by providing a comprehensive, AI-driven automation solution that integrates various data sources, including security scans, application and infrastructure information, and publicly available Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) databases. By analyzing this data, IBM Concert generates optimized and prioritized patching plans based on system topology, dependencies, maintenance windows, and business requirements. The solution then automates the creation of change requests and process documentation within IT service management systems like ServiceNow, ready for expert approval. Upon approval, IBM Concert orchestrates the fully automated installation of operating system patches across platforms such as Microsoft Windows Server and Red Hat Enterprise Linux, integrating tools like Ansible Playbooks in cloud environments. The results are documented within the IT service management system, providing a clear overview and facilitating traceability of changes, thereby improving compliance across hybrid cloud environments. (newsroom.ibm.com)
During a successful pilot implementation, Deutsche Telekom achieved a tenfold reduction in the "Median Time To Patch" metric, decreasing from 80 hours to just eight hours for critical vulnerabilities. Additionally, the fully automated patching process reduced patching time per instance from 90 minutes to a maximum of 20 minutes. These improvements not only enhance IT security but also improve business risk management and compliance, enabling Deutsche Telekom to manage IT operations risks more effectively. (newsroom.ibm.com)
Dr. Peter Leukert, Group CIO of Deutsche Telekom, emphasized the importance of timely patching in the AI era, stating, "Secure operating systems form the foundation for all applications, databases, and services that we offer our customers. When it comes to patching, the time factor has taken on a critical role in the AI era. Those who use available updates immediately and automatically can reduce security risks. We face this challenge together with our partner." (newsroom.ibm.com)
Steve Canepa, Global Managing Director at IBM, highlighted the significance of security and trust for telecommunications companies, noting that IBM Concert incorporates modern AI and automation technologies to help Deutsche Telekom stay ahead of the increasing number and complexity of critical vulnerabilities across their hybrid cloud platform. (newsroom.ibm.com)
Dinesh Nirmal, Senior Vice President of IBM Software, added that by intelligently orchestrating and automating security-critical processes, clients like Deutsche Telekom can respond faster to new threats and use resources more efficiently with IBM Concert, creating a solid foundation for a future-proof, scalable, and highly secure IT operating model with the help of AI. (newsroom.ibm.com)
This collaboration between Deutsche Telekom and IBM underscores the growing importance of AI-driven automation in managing complex IT operations, particularly in the face of an increasing number of applications and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. According to an IDC study, there will be one billion additional applications by 2028, driven by AI innovations, necessitating efficient patch management solutions to ensure smooth operation for millions of customers and users. (newsroom.ibm.com)
By implementing IBM Concert, Deutsche Telekom aims to enhance its IT resilience, reduce operational costs, and improve the speed and efficiency of its security processes, setting a precedent for other organizations seeking to leverage AI-powered automation in their IT operations.

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Source: The Malaysian Reserve https://themalaysianreserve.com/2025/07/03/deutsche-telekom-selects-ibm-concert-to-accelerate-it-processes-with-ai-powered-automation/

 

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Deutsche Telekom has recently announced its adoption of IBM Concert, an AI-powered automation solution, to enhance its patch management processes and bolster IT security. This strategic move aims to streamline operations, reduce vulnerability remediation times, and improve overall system resilience.
The Challenge of Patch Management
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, managing software patches is a critical yet complex task for large enterprises. Patches are essential for addressing security vulnerabilities, ensuring system stability, and maintaining compliance. However, the traditional patching process often involves manual coordination among various teams, leading to prolonged remediation times and increased risk exposure.
IBM Concert: A Game-Changer in Automation
IBM Concert leverages artificial intelligence to automate and optimize IT operations, particularly in the realm of patch management. By integrating and analyzing data from multiple sources, it provides AI-driven recommendations and workflows, enabling organizations to address vulnerabilities more efficiently. Key features of IBM Concert include:

• Data Integration and Analysis: Aggregates data from security scans, application and infrastructure information, and publicly available CVE databases to create a comprehensive view of the IT environment.
• AI-Driven Patching Plans: Utilizes generative AI to develop optimized and prioritized patching plans based on system topology, dependencies, maintenance windows, and business requirements.
• Automated Patch Deployment: Orchestrates the fully automated installation of operating system patches for platforms like Microsoft Windows Server and Red Hat Enterprise Linux, integrating tools such as Ansible Playbooks in cloud environments.
• Comprehensive Documentation: Documents the patching process within IT service management systems, enhancing traceability and compliance across hybrid cloud environments.

Deutsche Telekom's Implementation and Results
During a pilot implementation of IBM Concert, Deutsche Telekom achieved remarkable improvements:

• Reduction in Median Time to Patch: The time to address critical vulnerabilities decreased tenfold, from 80 hours to just 8 hours.
• Faster Patch Deployment: The automated patching process reduced the time required per instance from 90 minutes to a maximum of 20 minutes.

These enhancements not only bolster IT security but also free up resources for strategic initiatives and innovation.
Industry Context and Future Outlook
The adoption of AI-driven automation in IT operations is becoming increasingly prevalent. According to an IDC study, there will be one billion additional applications by 2028, driven by AI innovations. This surge underscores the necessity for efficient and scalable patch management solutions.
Deutsche Telekom's collaboration with IBM exemplifies a proactive approach to these challenges, positioning the company to manage risks more effectively and maintain a robust security posture in an era of rapid technological advancement.
In conclusion, the integration of IBM Concert into Deutsche Telekom's IT operations marks a significant step forward in leveraging AI for enhanced security and operational efficiency. As cyber threats continue to evolve, such strategic initiatives will be crucial for organizations aiming to safeguard their digital assets and maintain competitive advantage.

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Source: Telecompaper Telecompaper