In a recent survey conducted by ISC2, findings reveal a cautious yet growing interest in the adoption of AI security tools among cybersecurity professionals. The 2025 AI Adoption Pulse Survey, which gathered insights from 436 global cybersecurity experts, highlights the potential impact of AI on the effectiveness of teams, entry-level job markets, and overall hiring practices within the sector.
“AI is reshaping how organizations operate, and cybersecurity is no exception,” stated ISC2 Chief Qualifications Officer Casey Marks. He noted that while adoption is still in its early stages, a significant acceleration in the integration of AI tools is anticipated in the coming years. Notably, 44% of respondents indicated that AI security tools have not affected hiring practices, with 28% viewing AI as a catalyst for creating new opportunities for entry-level talent.
The survey reported that 30% of cybersecurity professionals have already implemented AI security tools, which include AI-enabled security solutions and generative or agentic AI for automated action. A further 42% are either exploring or testing these technologies, indicating a strong momentum towards broader implementation. Among those who have adopted AI tools, 70% reported an improvement in their team’s overall effectiveness.
When asked about the areas where AI security tools are expected to have the most immediate positive impact, respondents pointed to network monitoring and intrusion detection (60%), endpoint protection and response (56%), and vulnerability management (50%). Other areas include threat modeling (45%) and security testing (43%). The largest organizations, particularly those with more than 10,000 employees, lead in AI tool adoption at 37%, closely followed by mid-to-large organizations (2,500–9,999 employees) and smaller firms (100–499 employees) at 33% each. In contrast, smaller organizations (1–99 employees) have shown the least enthusiasm, with only 20% actively using AI, and 23% indicating no plans to explore these tools.
Industries such as industrial enterprises (38%), IT services (36%), and commercial/consumer sectors (36%) are at the forefront of AI tool adoption, while the financial services and public sectors report the lowest adoption rates at 21% and 16%, respectively. Interestingly, some sectors with low current usage are still considering future integration, as 41% of financial services professionals and 36% of public sector respondents reported actively evaluating AI tools.
However, the survey also uncovered a dual perspective on the impact of AI on hiring, particularly for entry-level positions. Over half (52%) of those surveyed expressed concern that AI would significantly or somewhat reduce the need for entry-level staff. Conversely, 31% were more optimistic, believing that AI could generate new roles and increase demand for junior positions, potentially offsetting declines in traditional entry-level opportunities.
Despite these mixed feelings, a substantial number of respondents (44%) stated their organization’s cybersecurity hiring has yet to be impacted by the implementation of AI tools, while 21% acknowledged that AI has altered their hiring priorities. Additionally, 44% of cybersecurity professionals indicated their organizations are actively re-evaluating the roles and skills necessary for incorporating AI security tools.
The ISC2 survey findings provide critical insights for organizations and hiring managers facing the evolving landscape of AI in cybersecurity. As AI technologies continue to advance, it is essential for organizations to strike a balance between leveraging these efficiencies and investing in entry-level opportunities. This approach will ensure that the cybersecurity workforce remains agile, skilled, and equipped for the future.
See also
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