Artificial Intelligence (AI), is a branch of Computer Science (CS) with the goal of creating machines that have the ability of reasoning, problem-solving, perception, learning, planning, and acquiring knowledge, among other aspects. Ultimately, the aim is to create a machine that can think, learn, and behave like a human. Although no machine has been able to effectively pass the Turing Test, this branch of CS has revolutionized how companies use machines to solve complex problems. AI has evolved to a point where every industry can incorporate its use to improve many aspects of commerce that require data-driven adaptation and knowledge. One such area is cybersecurity.
Growth and Need
By 2025, the security market will reach a value of $34.81 billion. Much of this growth is a direct consequence of the reliance on Internet-driven activities and devices. Furthermore, the lack of professionals in the cybersecurity field is leading the industry to develop more AI-based solutions to account for the demand and lack of supply. Much of the industry’s focus is on software. The reason being that a large segment of artificial intelligence relies on algorithms that manage machine learning, neural networks, and others. For example, in 2011, a machine developed by IBM called Watson played Jeopardy and won. However, the victory was based on years of development and the ability to incorporate complex theory. Ultimately, the software that used machine learning led Watson from an advanced knowledge-based search system to a complex machine that could learn and adapt based on experience. This idea of adaptation and learning is now being used in other industries, such as cybersecurity.
Emerging and Developing Concepts
Many security experts claim that artificial intelligence, in the cybersecurity industry, is overhyped. However, even with advancements and successful implementation in other segments of the economy, such as healthcare, the technology is still in its infancy and far from reaching its potential. Currently, AI is being applied to counter-terrorism, data mining, automated cybersecurity, forensic analysis, among others. Both industry and government rely on artificial intelligence to keep their systems secure. For instance, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is investing resources into a variety of innovations aiding border security and aviation safety. As investment increases, these innovations will continue to improve, thereby creating more secure systems and protective mechanisms aimed at keeping hackers away from mission-critical operations and data.
Implementing Technologies for Cybersecurity
The rise in the use of AI in the security industry is increasing. The reason is that the specific benefit of AI-based security systems align perfectly with the problems faced by the industry. These security techniques reduce false positives, improve overall security posture, and increase the speed of response of security personnel when under attack. This provides organizations with the ability to implement enterprise security risk management in an area that is complex and highly vulnerable. However, most organizations believe they are not utilizing their defense mechanisms to their full potential and this is generally caused by several factors. Therefore, companies whose core competencies do not revolve around IT security should consider outsourcing or hiring expert consultants to help manage security as an alternative. As the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and Internet-based activities continues to increase, the demand and requirements to secure sensitive systems will continue to grow. Companies that fail to adapt to protect themselves from growing threats are susceptible to negative public reaction, reputation loss, and decreased revenues.
