AI + a16z

How to Think About Foundation Models for Cybersecurity

May 10, 2024

Discussing the impact of generative AI and foundation models in cybersecurity, the podcast highlights the potential for automation, cutting through noise, and reducing drudgery in security tasks. The conversation explores the excitement around utilizing AI to alleviate the overwhelming volume of security operations. Additionally, it delves into the evolution of AI in cybersecurity, the challenges faced by security teams, and the potential for AI to enhance supply chain security and DevSecOps.

37:06

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Quick takeaways

AI can help security teams automate tasks and cut through noise in cybersecurity.

Generative AI will revolutionize security practices and address workforce shortages in the field.

Deep dives

Passion and Understanding Drive Success in Security Field

Success in the security field is not solely dependent on educational background or experience, but rather on a deep passion and understanding of the technology. Individuals who excel often exhibit a strong enthusiasm for the field, as evidenced by their willingness to dedicate time and effort, staying up late to engage with new technologies like chat GPT. This deep passion and understanding are key indicators of potential success, surpassing traditional metrics such as formal education or work experience.

Introduction

2min

Exploring Early Innovation and Rapid Transformation in Security Technology

2min

The Evolution of AI in Cybersecurity

19min

Evolution of Enterprise Cloud Adoption and Shift in Technology Mindset

2min

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of AI Security for Startups

10min

Passion and Understanding in AI for Cybersecurity Startups

2min

In this episode of the AI + a16z podcast, a16z General Partner Zane Lackey and a16z Partner Joel de la Garza sit down with Derrick Harris to discuss how generative AI — LLMs, in particular — and foundation models could effect profound change in cybersecurity. After years of AI-washing by security vendors, they explain why the hype is legitimate this time as AI provides a real opportunity to help security teams cut through the noise and automate away the types of drudgery that lead to mistakes.

"Often when you're running a security team, you're not only drowning in noise, but you're drowning in just the volume of things going on," Zane explains. "And so I think a lot of security teams are excited about, 'Can we utilize AI and LLMs to really take at least some of that off of our plate?'

"I think it's still very much an open question of how far they go in helping us, but even taking some meaningful percentage off of our plate in terms of overall work is going to really help security teams overall."

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Zane Lackey

Joel de la Garza

Derrick Harris

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