Cybersecurity automation has followed a path familiar to many emerging technologies: a cycle of inflated expectations, hard realities, and eventual refinement. Gartner’s “hype cycle” provides a useful framework for understanding this journey—initial enthusiasm and lofty expectations give way to challenges and disillusionment before practical, high-value use cases emerge. Our research confirms this trajectory, showing that while early efforts at automation often stumbled, organizations are now settling into an era where cybersecurity automation is delivering measurable value.

From Standalone Hype to Integrated Necessity

In its infancy, cybersecurity automation was often treated as a separate initiative. However, it has now evolved beyond being a standalone objective. Instead, it has become embedded within broader security tools and frameworks, increasing its adoption and effectiveness. This shift signals a movement toward the “plateau of productivity,” where organizations are no longer just experimenting with automation but actively relying on it to improve security outcomes.

Micro-Focused Decision-Making 

In recent years, external economic and societal factors have driven cybersecurity decision-making, often leading organizations to make broad, reactionary investments. However, a noticeable shift is occurring—companies are now focusing on industry-specific needs and unique business risks. This micro-focused approach allows organizations to extract real value from automation by tailoring it to their particular security challenges. Instead of chasing general trends, they are leveraging automation to address precise threats, optimize workflows, and enhance response times.

The Business Case for Cybersecurity Automation

A key indicator of cybersecurity automation’s maturity is how organizations are funding it. In previous years, budgets were often redirected from other cybersecurity initiatives or repurposed from unfilled security roles. This year, for the first time, our survey found that more companies are securing net-new budget allocations for cybersecurity automation. 99% of respondents said they had increased budget to invest in cybersecurity automation. Among these 39% had net new budget. This shift suggests that automation is no longer seen as an optional add-on but as a necessary investment with a clear business case. Organizations now recognize that automation directly enhances security posture, reduces risk, and alleviates the burden on overstretched security teams.

The Road Ahead

As cybersecurity automation continues to gain traction, its role within security strategies will only deepen. The days of hype-driven expectations are fading, replaced by a pragmatic focus on where automation delivers the most value. With growing trust in its outcomes and a clearer path to implementation, cybersecurity automation is crossing the chasm from promise to productivity. The organizations that embrace this shift strategically—investing in automation that aligns with their specific needs—will be the ones best positioned to navigate the evolving threat landscape.

The hype may have passed, but the value is real. The future of cybersecurity is automated, integrated, and built for the threats of today and tomorrow.

To learn more, download The Evolution of Cybersecurity Automation Adoption.