In 2023, generative AI (GenAI) gained significant attention, and in 2024, this excitement is transitioning into tangible applications. GenAI holds promise for human augmentation, enhanced productivity, and increased creativity. As with many new technologies, it also raises cybersecurity concerns, as evidenced by early breaches and phishing incidents.

A recent survey of more than 600 cybersecurity decision-makers conducted by Omdia delves into the symbiotic relationship between GenAI and cybersecurity, spotlighting the critical need for support among decision-makers grappling with the ever-evolving threat landscape. The survey highlights that generative AI emerges as a force for change within the cybersecurity landscape, characterized by unprecedented potential and formidable challenges. Its impact, akin to a technological double-edged sword, necessitates meticulous consideration as it simultaneously propels advancements and introduces risks into the security paradigm.

Significantly, nearly three-quarters of surveyed organizations identify GenAI as an invaluable asset in shoring up their security posture, marking a discernible trend: a deliberate and steadfast adoption of GenAI for cybersecurity purposes.

A Steep Learning Curve

Despite this surge, organizations grapple with a significant learning curve, reflecting diverse expectations and a degree of confusion regarding GenAI's capabilities in the cybersecurity domain. Nevertheless, businesses express an ardent interest in unraveling the tangible benefits that GenAI can bring to their cybersecurity defenses.

Against this backdrop, organizational cybersecurity strategies are evolving. Few entities plan to maintain the status quo in their cybersecurity portfolios this year. Instead, a majority demand heightened performance from their cybersecurity technology partners, placing a distinct emphasis on the seamless integration of generative AI into product evolution. While organizations anticipate paying for these enhanced capabilities, variations exist in the perceived investment levels.

This landscape prompts a rigorous scrutiny of the competitive arena. Vendors should expect the demand to integrate GenAI into their cybersecurity capabilities to align with industry expectations. A tech juggernaut like Microsoft, already a formidable player in the cybersecurity market, has made substantial investments in OpenAI. Cybersecurity vendors now face the challenge of not only addressing conventional competition but also navigating the influence of a tech giant like Microsoft in the GenAI space.

Reshaping Intelligence Boundaries

In essence, generative AI is reshaping the very boundaries of cybersecurity, offering a plethora of opportunities and threats. Decision-makers within cybersecurity are inclined to embrace this transformative technology but only when convinced of its alignment with their organizational objectives and security posture. Vendors, therefore, must strategically position themselves to not only alleviate confusion and address concerns but also to secure a significant share of the burgeoning GenAI adoption as it relates to cybersecurity.

To dive deeper into Omdia’s survey, you can send a query to Omdia's Ask an Analyst.