a16z Podcast Enabling Agents and Battling Bots on an AI-Centric Web
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Jul 4, 2025 
In this discussion, David Mytton, CEO of Arcjet, shares insights on modern web security challenges, particularly around managing access for both humans and AI agents. He highlights the complexities of distinguishing between helpful and harmful bots in e-commerce. The conversation delves into the need for advanced security measures and the significance of low-cost, fast inference methods at the edge. David emphasizes that understanding user context is crucial for effective interaction in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.
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Nuanced Traffic Management Needed
- The web traffic issue is increasingly about distinguishing good bots from bad bots, not just blocking bots altogether.
- AI agents may act on behalf of humans, making traffic management a nuanced challenge beyond simple binary decisions.
Use Context Before Blocking Traffic
- Avoid blocking suspicious traffic at the network layer before application context is known.
- Instead, flag suspect transactions for human review to prevent losing legitimate revenue.
Limitations of robots.txt Standard
- Robots.txt is a voluntary, decades-old standard that guides good bots but lacks enforcement.
- Many newer bots ignore it and may use it to find forbidden site areas, posing control challenges for site owners.