While artificial intelligence continues to reshape the cybersecurity landscape, a recent ISC2 report reveals that professionals remain cautiously optimistic about fully integrating AI into their daily operations.

The study found that 30% of cybersecurity teams are currently using AI tools, with 42% in the exploratory or testing phase. Only a small fraction—10%—have no plans to adopt AI.

Industries like industrial enterprises (38%), IT services (36%), and professional services (34%) are leading AI adoption. In contrast, sectors such as financial services (21%) and the public sector (16%) trail behind.

Among adopters, 70% report improved team effectiveness, with notable gains in network monitoring (60%), endpoint protection (56%), vulnerability management (50%), and threat modeling (45%).

Casey Marks, Chief Qualifications Officer at ISC2, emphasized the sector’s growing but measured interest in AI: “Cybersecurity professionals are cautiously optimistic. The momentum is there, but integration is happening deliberately.”

Larger enterprises—with over 10,000 employees—are spearheading adoption, with 37% actively deploying AI tools, compared to just 20% among mid-sized and small businesses. Notably, 23% of smaller firms have no plans to evaluate AI tools at all.

The report also touches on hiring impacts. While just over 50% foresee a reduced need for entry-level roles, 31% believe AI could generate new roles or increase demand at junior levels. Currently, 44% say AI hasn’t yet influenced hiring, but many are reconsidering the skills needed to work alongside AI.

“AI is freeing up cybersecurity teams from repetitive tasks,” Marks added, “allowing them to focus on more strategic, high-value work.”

Despite the optimism, some industry leaders are calling for a strategic pause to reassess the rapid changes. Concerns linger that over-reliance on AI could erode critical human expertise, potentially introducing new vulnerabilities.

As AI continues to evolve, the cybersecurity industry appears committed to balancing innovation with responsibility.

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News Source: ITPro.com