Tech giant introduces new artificial intelligence features to help security teams respond to attacks in minutes instead of hours
Cisco Systems announced new AI-powered cybersecurity tools on Tuesday, designed to help companies detect and respond to cyber threats more quickly as hackers increasingly use artificial intelligence in their attacks.
The networking equipment maker introduced two new versions of its Splunk Enterprise Security platform at the Splunk .CONF conference in Boston, combining multiple security tools into unified systems powered by AI agents.
Two New Security Packages
Cisco is offering customers two options: a Premier Edition that bundles advanced threat detection tools, and an Essentials Edition with core security features. Both versions use AI to automatically handle routine security tasks, allowing human analysts to focus on strategic decisions.
“Adversaries are already using AI, so defenders need to seize every possible advantage,” said Mike Horn, who leads Splunk Security at Cisco. The company says its AI can reduce investigation time from hours to minutes and cut down on false security alerts.
AI Takes Over Routine Tasks
The new system includes several AI-powered features that work like digital assistants for security teams. A “Triage Agent” automatically evaluates and prioritizes security alerts, while a “Malware Reversal Agent” analyzes malicious software and explains how it works line-by-line.
Another tool can automatically create response playbooks by understanding instructions written in plain English, making it easier for security teams to set up automated responses to common threats.
Addressing Growing Security Challenges
The announcement comes as companies face increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. Many organizations struggle with too much security data and too many separate tools, creating blind spots that attackers can exploit.
“Security teams can’t afford to waste time switching between fragmented tools,” said Michelle Abraham, a security researcher at IDC. She noted that integrated platforms help organizations move from reactive to proactive security approaches.
Availability and Future Plans
The Essentials Edition is available globally now, while the Premier Edition is in early testing. Cisco plans to release additional AI features, including enhanced detection tools and personalized security configurations, in 2026.
The move reflects the broader trend of technology companies racing to integrate AI into their products as both cyber attackers and defenders adopt the technology in an escalating digital arms race.
