Cisco has introduced AI Defense, a security solution aimed at addressing the risks associated with the increasing use of artificial intelligence in enterprise operations. Scheduled for release in March 2025, the platform will integrate with Cisco’s Security Cloud to provide tools that support the secure use of AI applications, safeguard data, and counter emerging cybersecurity threats.
As businesses adopt AI technologies, they face new vulnerabilities such as data leaks, model tampering, and unauthorised use of applications. Cisco said that AI Defense is designed to help organisations manage these risks by identifying potential threats, automating security protocols, and maintaining the integrity of AI systems.
Jeetu Patel, Cisco’s Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer, underscored the importance of tailored security solutions for AI, stating that organisations need tools capable of mitigating risks without hindering progress. “Cisco AI Defense combines the unique ability to detect and protect against threats when developing and accessing AI applications without tradeoffs,” he said.
The company describes AI Defense as focusing on two primary areas: securing the processes involved in developing and deploying AI systems, and ensuring appropriate access controls for AI applications within enterprises. By addressing vulnerabilities and implementing continuous monitoring, the solution provides a framework for managing the risks inherent to AI.
Cisco states that AI Defense includes tools to identify unauthorised AI applications, assess AI models for potential vulnerabilities, and continuously monitor enterprise systems to prevent security breaches. The platform is also built to function across multi-cloud and multi-model environments, offering compatibility with diverse AI ecosystems.
To strengthen its capabilities, AI Defense integrates threat intelligence from Cisco Talos, the company’s cybersecurity research unit, and aligns with established industry standards, said the company.
After its acquisition of Splunk in March 2024, Cisco has significantly accelerated its focus on AI security and observability solutions. The integration of Splunk’s advanced data analytics and cybersecurity capabilities into Cisco’s portfolio seems to have enhanced company’s ability to deliver comprehensive visibility and proactive defense across enterprise digital infrastructures.
