Recursive Security Brings Cisco and Splunk Together
Recursive Security Moves Cyber Up the Stack
Recursive security is becoming a larger part of the Cisco and Splunk conversation as AI changes how defenders build, test and improve security systems. In this Techstrong TV interview from SplunkConf 2026, Alan Shimel talks with Sunil Potti about bringing Cisco security and Splunk together around a shared mission.
Potti describes a shift in which cybersecurity is no longer just infrastructure plumbing. AI is pushing security higher in the technology stack. That creates an opportunity to connect security, observability, data and automation in ways that help organizations respond at machine speed.
Cisco and Splunk Converge Around AI
The discussion explores why Cisco is combining its security portfolio with Splunk’s observability and data strengths. Splunk already collects large amounts of operational and security telemetry. Cisco brings security controls, network context and a broad enterprise customer base.
That combination matters because AI systems need trustworthy data. Security teams also need evidence about what happened, why it happened and whether a response actually worked. Recursive security depends on that loop. Offensive agents test defenses. Defensive agents investigate and respond. Observability shows whether the system improved.
Self-Improving Cybersecurity Requires Better Data
Potti argues that cybersecurity products can no longer be built, tested and shipped as static systems. Attackers adapt quickly. AI can compress that cycle even further. Defenders need their own cycle of continuous testing, response, learning and improvement.
That is where Splunk can play a central role. Logs, traces and operational data can help customers understand whether security services are working in their environment. With the right data layer, teams can turn security operations into a flywheel that keeps learning from each test and response.
People Still Define the Mission
The interview also returns to leadership, people and culture. Potti says the work depends on building teams aligned around a higher ambition. Technology can accelerate the mission, but people still decide how the organization works and what problems matter most.
For technology leaders, the takeaway is clear. Recursive security is not just another AI feature. It is a model for continuously improving security through connected data, offensive testing, defensive response and human-led governance across Cisco and Splunk environments.
