AI Security Glossary

AI Security Glossary

Autonomous software systems are beginning to operate across enterprise environments. These systems can trigger workflows, interact with tools, and execute tasks with limited human involvement. This glossary explains key terms related to autonomous systems security, including the new attack surface, system behavior, risk patterns, and the controls required to govern automated execution.

Use this glossary to explore the concepts shaping AI execution, autonomous behavior, and runtime governance.

50 glossary terms

The New Attack Surface

These terms describe the new security exposure created when software systems initiate actions and operate across enterprise infrastructure without direct human initiation.

System Behavior

These terms explain how autonomous systems interact, coordinate, and form execution paths across tools, services, and infrastructure.

Risk Patterns

These terms describe the ways automated behavior can create risk, including propagation, escalation, drift, and systemic failure.

Security Controls

These terms explain the policies, boundaries, monitoring, and containment mechanisms used to govern automated systems during execution.