Security operations centers are undergoing a significant transformation as artificial intelligence agents increasingly handle alert triage and investigation, according to a 2026 report by Gartner analyst Pete Shoard. The research predicts that by 2028, engineering staff will outnumber traditional analysts within these facilities, fundamentally shifting the focus of security teams toward case ownership and proactive threat management, with further coverage provided by Bleeping Computer.
The integration of AI agents is changing the primary function of the security operations center from alert processing to end-to-end case ownership. As these tools automate routine triage, analysts are transitioning into roles that require human validation of AI-generated conclusions and effective communication of response strategies. This shift necessitates a new approach to entry-level training, as junior staff no longer gain experience through high-volume alert handling. Furthermore, the role of detection engineering is expanding into a broader discipline that includes prompt design, workflow testing and AI output validation. Gartner recommends that organizations move away from traditional metrics like alert volume, focusing instead on case accuracy, cycle time and decision confidence. Additionally, continuous threat exposure management is becoming a critical standing function. These changes aim to redirect human expertise toward offensive testing and threat hunting, ensuring that security teams remain effective as AI technology continues to reshape the industry landscape.
Source: Bleeping Computer
