Glossary · AI and language-model infrastructure
Artificial intelligence
A broad category of computer systems that perform tasks associated with prediction, classification, generation, planning, or decision support.
Also called: AI
Definition
Artificial intelligence is an umbrella term covering many methods and systems, including machine learning and large language models. Useful evaluation starts with the specific model, data, task, controls, and consequences rather than the label alone.
Why it matters
AI can support research, drafting, classification, and automation, but outputs and actions need validation proportional to business, privacy, and operational risk.
Common misunderstanding
AI is not one product, does not imply autonomy or understanding, and does not guarantee that a result is factual, original, fair, or authorized.
Related terms
Related system family: Operations & Automation
Sources
- Artificial intelligence (opens in a new tab) · NIST Computer Security Resource Center
Last reviewed July 16, 2026