An AI agent is a system that takes a goal as input and figures out how to accomplish it. It can use tools like search engines, databases, APIs, and code interpreters, and it decides the sequence of actions needed. Unlike a chatbot that responds to messages, an agent takes action in the world.
An IT agent that receives a request to onboard a new contractor, creates their accounts, assigns permissions, sends onboarding materials, and schedules a system orientation — without a human touching each step — is operating as an AI agent. The goal was given. The agent handled everything else.
