In 2025, the physical security sector will prioritize optimizing existing investments to strengthen security, improve operational efficiency, and foster greater collaboration across teams.
Dubai, 20 January 2025 — Genetec Inc. (“Genetec”), a global leader in enterprise physical security solutions, today unveiled its top predictions for the physical security landscape in 2025.
Pragmatism Over Hype
As organizations become more discerning in their cloud adoption, there’s a shift towards balancing on-premises, edge, and cloud-based solutions to find the optimal configuration. In 2025, decision-makers will focus on hybrid systems that offer centralized monitoring, minimized maintenance through quick-deploy cloud hybrid models, and modernized video or access control systems that integrate with existing infrastructure. Fully cloud-based deployments will still hold value, particularly for optimizing costs or enabling broader third-party integrations. SaaS solutions supporting hybrid-cloud environments will offer enhanced flexibility by combining various manufacturers’ video, access control, and sensor systems while leveraging the cloud to integrate with current infrastructure.
AI to Drive Tangible Results
According to the 2025 State of Physical Security Report, 42% of professionals in procurement, management, or physical security technology plan to incorporate AI into their security operations in the coming months.
AI-enabled security solutions have the potential to revolutionize the sector when applied strategically. Organizations are increasingly focusing on addressing specific operational challenges through intelligent automation, which blends artificial intelligence (AI), an intuitive user experience (UX), and automation. The most effective implementations will prioritize Responsible AI, ensuring that the technology is ethical, transparent, and risk-mitigating, thus promoting greater trust and compliance.
Data Privacy Will Be a Top Priority
In 2024, the global average cost of a data breach reached $4.88 million, and with 67% of organizations being impacted by regulatory changes last year, data protection will remain a key focus for businesses. As a result, IT and physical security teams will seek solutions equipped with robust data protection tools and the latest certifications when deploying new systems. Cloud and hybrid-cloud solutions, with automatic updates and cybersecurity features, will be in high demand as they provide continuous data protection and help ensure compliance.
Cross-Team Collaboration on the Rise
Recent industry surveys show that organizations anticipate challenges in hiring qualified personnel in 2025. As a result, tools that facilitate data analysis, visualization, and cross-team collaboration will become essential. These tools will help remove bottlenecks, alleviate pressure on security teams, and empower employees across IT, facilities, and human resources with better access to information and decision-making autonomy.
Stakeholders Will Expect More from Service Providers
Decisions regarding physical security solutions are no longer solely made by security professionals. IT teams, security operations (SecOps), and facilities teams are increasingly involved, each bringing their unique concerns and priorities into the decision-making process.
Service Providers Must Meet Diverse Needs
As a result, end users will expect more from service providers, including consultants, technology vendors, and channel partners. These providers will need to showcase a deeper understanding of cybersecurity, operations, data management, and business automation. They must offer cohesive guidance that addresses the needs of various stakeholders and equip them with the necessary tools.