Security technology: guide to the latest industry trends in 2025

What is security technology?

Security technology describes organizations’ specific components, devices and operational policies to protect sensitive data, physical properties and valuable assets. To use emerging security technologies effectively, stakeholders must first understand how different facets of security systems function.

The latest security technologies include hardware and software components of the latest security technologies range from access control and video security systems, which prevent and deter unauthorized property access, to IT security technology solutions, such as firewalls, encryption programs, and cloud security applications.

Physical security technology trends and examples

Effective and reliable physical security systems will typically include the following security tech:

• Video security cameras
• Access control systems
• AI analytics software
• IoT environmental sensors
• On-site alarm systems

In the past, the security tech mentioned above may have been siloed, preventing data from being shared between devices to inform event responses. However, futuristic security technology solutions are taking a different approach. Modern security industry trends, including security camera industry trends, are leading organizations to prioritize integrated security system technologies that can be managed from multiple locations via cloud-based platforms.

The discussion regarding cloud vs. on-premise security technology continues to be a key topic, though the ability for cloud-based systems to be viewed, adjusted and managed remotely has seen around 94% of companies globally pursue some form of cloud adoption.

Data security technology examples

As businesses of all sizes migrate more essential services towards digital platforms, monitoring cybersecurity trends and the latest technology in cybersecurity becomes increasingly important. The following are popular types of security data technology:

• Firewalls
• Encryption services
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Ransomware detection
• AI data analytics systems

Traditionally, advancements in security data technology have been limited to updated versions of existing firewalls, ransomware detection and antivirus software. However, the trends of new security technology in 2025 suggest an increasing interest in proactive AI solutions and machine learning algorithms, with AI-informed processes becoming more commonplace among emerging technologies in cybersecurity.

Figures published by Forbes in 2023 show that of 600 surveyed business leaders, over 50% leverage some form of AI technology to enhance cybersecurity and fraud detection systems. Supporting data from IBM suggests that 64% of business executives are using AI in a security-focused capacity, with 29% evaluating its implementation.

What are the components of security technology solutions?

New security technology in 2025 calls for business security systems to offer effective and reliable protection for physical and digital assets. Each hardware and software element must be developed using the four main components of security technology. 

No matter where you sit on the cloud vs. on-premise security technology debate, security tech professionals agree that the following are the primary components of the latest security technology:

• Prevention: All new security technology products must be designed and configured to prevent common threats. Examples include implementing MFA policies to mitigate the risk of lost access credentials and installing visible video security, such as PTZ camera systems, to deter intrusions.
• Deterrence: All active security technologies and new security technologies should act as obvious deterrents to criminal activity. Installing visible access control readers and smart door locks will cause intruders to reconsider trespassing, as will the presence of security gates and alarm systems.
• Detection: The faster a security breach or intrusion event is detected, the less physical or financial damage it will cause. Security technology trends in 2025 mirror this principle via the increasing popularity of automated systems programmed to perform immediate incident responses.
• Response: Despite most modern businesses having active security systems, around 500,000 property crimes are reported monthly across the U.S. Preventative measures are important, but effective security technology solutions help staff improve incident response times.

The importance of converged security technology systems

What is security convergence?

One of the new security technologies for 2025 is security convergence, or the integration of traditionally siloed security systems, particularly physical security devices and information security technologies. With more businesses relying on both physical and virtual systems to defend against threats, the potential for security gaps to appear becomes more concerning.

Under a converged security strategy, internal security and IT teams will implement new trends in security technology and operational policies created in line with physical and cybersecurity best practices. This reduces the risk of one team unintentionally exposing vulnerabilities in wider systems while promoting knowledge sharing between departments. 

Convergence is a key IT security trend that can also influence the future of physical security. It can help tackle cybersecurity issues in healthcare, education, government, and similar sectors particularly vulnerable to physical and virtual threats.

Security convergence continues to be well-represented by cyber and physical security trends in 2025, with 60% of surveyed businesses now operating either fully or partially converged futuristic security systems. Adopting integrated solutions will likely grow throughout 2025 as emerging cybersecurity technologies and advanced hardware systems are refined.

The factors shaping new and future security technology

Future security technology and IT security trends are influenced by wide-ranging societal factors. In 2025, new trends in security technology reflect changing attitudes toward work and innovations in smart technology, bringing greater focus to discussions around cloud vs. on-premise security technology.

Research suggests that the three most prominent factors influencing 2025 security trends are:

• Remote and hybrid working: As of 2023, 35% of workers who can work from home do so permanently, and 65% of companies offer some form of flexible work program. The formation of decentralized teams requires increased investments in cloud-based tech.
• AI analytics and machine learning: 82% of global companies are using or exploring the use of AI technology, with key benefits found in creating automated incident responses and data-informed decision-making to support professionals.
• Zero trust and MFA policies: With support from advanced access control systems and MFA, zero trust policies ensure that in-person and remote staff are frequently verified when accessing private networks to prevent significant data security technology breaches.

Future security technology will likely involve increased reliance on converged security policies and integrated systems, with cloud-based management platforms enabling teams to view and adjust essential devices remotely. High-tech security systems, informed by AI analytics, will continue to assist teams in improving efficiency and creating automated incident responses.

These insights provide a general overview of what business owners can expect from future security technology and emerging cybersecurity technologies. To help employers improve their existing systems, let’s focus on the new security technology and IT security technology innovations that will impact businesses across major industries in 2025.

The top security technology trends in 2025 

So, what are the latest security technologies and corporate security trends? Do they affect the views expressed in the cloud vs. on-premise security technology debate in the security tech industry? From recent innovations in AI-powered security software and machine learning algorithms to novel information technology security systems and emerging cloud security trends, below are eight top security technology trends to consider in 2025.

1. Smart AI and machine learning integrations

Intelligent AI programs and machine learning algorithms are continuing to revolutionize business security. Modern integrations are designed to improve the operation of digital and physical security technologies, primarily through automated incident detection and response functions.

For example, AI software solutions are now commonly integrated alongside existing business security cameras to optimize core security operations. AI video analytics systems imbued with the latest machine and deep learning capabilities can be deployed to continuously search for anomalous events. This removes the need for security teams to constantly monitor camera feeds, with instant alerts sent to staff remotely via the cloud. 

With support from machine learning algorithms, modern AI software solutions can understand how systems and physical spaces are used under normal conditions, alerting staff instantly to the occurrence of anomalous events. In practice, this could mean alerting operators if a crowd begins to form in a typically low-traffic area, or if the AI camera system detects motion outside of normal working hours.

Businesses can help internal security teams improve their decision-making capabilities and remain focused on key events with AI-informed notifications, representing the future of adaptive and proactive physical security installations. 

2. Mobile credentials and touchless access control

Installing and operating well-implemented access control systems is one of this year’s key corporate security trends, and is likely to be a top priority for many businesses in 2025, with a noticeable migration towards mobile credential solutions quickly becoming one of the more prominent physical security trends impacting modern organizations.

The primary benefits of the adoption of mobile credential systems include a lowered risk of lost or stolen credentials leading to serious security breaches, reduced expenses related to the cost of replacing physical credentials and convenience and hygiene benefits for users. Thanks to an entirely touchless access process secured behind emerging cybersecurity technology solutions, users can manage property access safely and securely at all times. 

The development of mobile access control systems also allows businesses to implement additional policies and wider integrations to further improve on-site security. Credentials stored within smartphones can be secured behind the MFA protections already present in modern devices, and access control can be linked to existing digital scheduling programs.

In addition, most mobile access systems are developed alongside cloud-based management platforms, allowing security teams to create bespoke integrations between access devices and wider systems. This means security cameras, such as 360-degree IP cameras and alarms, can be programmed to automatically trigger in response to suspicious access events, and staff can view live data feeds remotely.

3. Cloud-based data security technology

Cloud security trends and corporate security trends show that cloud tech will remain central to many businesses’ wider security strategies in 2025, as modern organizations continue to embrace remote and hybrid work schedules. With so many employees now requiring access to sensitive company data from remote locations, security and IT teams must strengthen existing cloud security measures to prevent significant data security technology breaches.

Popular examples include implementing zero-trust policies to frequently assess employee credentials when networks are accessed remotely, modern encryption services to ensure all communications with cloud-based systems remain unreadable to malicious actors and MFA protocols designed to lock server access behind additional credential layers.

Implementing advanced cloud security technology protocols becomes even more important when teams consider the growing popularity of cloud-based security management platforms. Suppose businesses are to enjoy the benefits of remote-access security management and position themselves to freely adapt to the future of IT security. In that case, they must ensure secure communications between remote devices and cloud servers.

This consideration helps explain the growing adoption of converged security systems among modern organizations. Physical security system technology and cyber security policies must be designed in unison to protect cloud servers from sophisticated attacks. By ensuring on-site security and IT teams know how opposing systems operate, the risks of cross-platform attacks can be reduced.

4. Data-informed occupancy management

Modern organizations are increasingly turning toward data-informed occupancy management to assist security teams in optimizing existing systems and deciding where to invest finite time and resources. IoT occupancy sensors installed in key locations can provide teams with accurate data concerning properties’ use.

Relevant data can then be organized and analyzed using smart security system technology solutions, helping leaders better understand key occupancy metrics and which areas will benefit most from installing new security devices. For example, occupancy data may highlight frequently used shortcuts through areas without active security cameras.

Accurate occupancy data can help security teams develop and update emergency response plans. Staff can see which areas of the property frequently experience bottlenecks during busy times and then use this data to inform evacuation plans.

In addition, occupancy management sensors are often integrated into scheduling and amenity booking systems to help optimize core operations. For instance, if certain facilities are used more frequently during specific times, leaders may look to expand those services during future renovations or adjust internal schedules to optimize operational efficiencies.

5. Biometric systems for high-security applications

Biometric access control integrations are becoming increasingly popular as an additional form of verification to protect high-security locations and sensitive company data. Though it’s rare to find biometric access systems deployed to secure all areas of a commercial property, the extra protections biometrics provide for high-security assets have seen their use increase.

Installing biometric access readers to secure high-risk locations like server rooms, inventory storage facilities and cash vaults helps ensure that even if token-based credentials become compromised, intruders cannot access valuable assets.

Examples of popularly deployed biometric options include:

• Voice recognition
• Facial recognition
• Fingerprint scans
• Retina/​iris scans
• Gesture recognition
• Gait analysis

Considering the increasing number of significant data breaches that have impacted businesses in recent years, more systems traditionally secured behind password protections are expected to gradually move toward biometric authentication. As most smart devices already contain biometric scanners, transitions toward this form of verification may also be easily adopted by end-users.

New security technology developments are leading to promising innovations in biometrics, with novel processes like post-quantum cryptography and multi-model biometrics increasing the accuracy of scans beyond current limitations, potentially impacting future security industry trends.

6. Increasing adoption of behavioral analytics 

Smart behavioral analytics programs are promising new security technologies that are quickly becoming popular among cybersecurity professionals. This emerging technology improves the speed and accuracy of large dataset analyses, producing high-quality insights that can inform wider security system technology networks.

Utilizing AI and machine learning tools, these futuristic security technology solutions help professionals better understand user behaviors, leveraging insights to identify suspicious cybercrime-related activity. AI-informed behavioral analytics software is commonly used to spot warning signs of sophisticated threats like DDoS attacks and data exfiltration activities, enabling security teams to program automatic responses triggered by predetermined criteria.

Behavioral analytics programs share particular synergies with converged and cloud-based security systems, enabling organizations to frequently test and assess all aspects of active security networks, including web applications, cloud-based servers, management platforms and physical security technologies.

By deploying new cybersecurity technologies, admins can better understand how employees typically use core systems to help optimize existing processes and improve their abilities to accurately detect emerging cyber threats. As more teams adopt converged and integrated security systems, behavioral analytics technologies will likely become increasingly popular.

7. Advanced sensor technology

Sensors are an integral security and safety technology, supporting real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making efforts. Vape detection sensors help improve air quality and ensure compliance with no-smoking policies. They leverage specialized hardware and software tools to detect the presence of vape aerosols and provide real-time alerts for prompt action. 

Some smart sensors, such as the HALO sensor, offer a wide range of functionalities beyond vape detection, including noise detection and keyword recognition, enabling these security technologies to function as smart panic alert systems. Air quality sensors can also monitor pollutant, humidity and heat levels to help facilitate healthier indoor environments.

Some advanced smart sensors contain dedicated panic buttons. This provides an immediate means for individuals to warn other people in the building of emergencies, and request aid from local authorities, helping to mitigate damages and enhance overall security outcomes. 

The data collected by sensor technology and security systems can not only be leveraged to promote occupant safety and well-being but also to optimize building management operations. Insights can help inform the operation of HVAC and lighting systems to reduce energy waste, suggesting the future of physical security may lie in multi-functional hardware.

8. License plate recognition (LPR)

The adoption of License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology is rapidly expanding and is expected to continue growing as a key security industry trend in 2025. LPR systems utilize advanced license plate detection cameras and software to analyze the license plate details of passing vehicles, supporting smart access control and parking management operations. 

This futuristic security technology is pivotal for automating vehicular access control across high-risk sites like commercial and government buildings and residential communities. By recognizing and recording license plates, LPR systems can grant or deny access based on verifiable identities, significantly minimizing risks associated with unauthorized intrusions. 

Additionally, LPR technology integrates seamlessly with wider security systems, such as video security, access control and alarm systems, to create a cohesive and robust security infrastructure. This integration allows for immediate cross-referencing of vehicle data with security databases, enabling teams to respond to potential threats and odd events swiftly. 

In parking management, LPR helps with efficient space utilization and streamlined user verification by automating ticketing and payment processes. As the technology and security capabilities of LPR systems continue to advance, hardware and software solutions will likely become more accurate and cost-effective, supporting integrations that may influence future security trends.

Implementing physical and cybersecurity technology trends

While remaining informed about the latest technology in cybersecurity, physical security and cloud computing will help businesses better understand how new innovations may shape the future of security technology, not all emerging technologies are well-suited to all applications.

In many cases, leaders and security personnel will make better use of available resources by prioritizing a smaller selection of new security technologies suited to their core operations.

Often, it’s not practical or financially feasible to continuously update all active security solutions according to the latest security trends. Therefore, stakeholders must work together to identify key security technologies that will likely have the most significant positive impacts.

Below are some best practices to keep in mind when planning security upgrades in 2025.

Perform detailed risk assessments

Before choosing which systems to upgrade, teams must combine their knowledge to perform detailed physical security risk assessments to identify the organization’s five most prominent threats. For example, businesses with high numbers of remote staff may prioritize cloud security improvements, while retail security systems may benefit from access control upgrades.

Develop risk mitigation strategies

With all major security threats identified and discussed, teams should develop risk mitigation strategies. This can be achieved by assessing existing IT security technology and physical security hardware, alongside relevant organizational policies and then considering how specific new security technologies may be leveraged to improve them.

For some teams, this could mean investing in AI software integrations positioned to enhance video security systems and IP security cameras, rather than taking on the cost of replacing current hardware. For others, planned new security processes may not be achievable using existing security tools, requiring full-scale infrastructure updates as a long-term investment. 

Consider scalability and future upgrades

Any investments into emerging security technologies must be made with future scalability, upgrades and maintenance in mind. For instance, if teams have decided that mobile access systems will be beneficial to the business, they must also ensure that installing new readers, developing wider integrations and upgrading software systems can be reasonably achieved.

Evaluate installation and integration costs

New security technology and high-tech security devices will need to be installed by professional teams trained to integrate these systems with existing tools without exposing significant vulnerabilities. Business leaders must consider whether structural work will be required and how labor-intensive the work will be, as these factors could dramatically increase overall costs.

Future of security technology trends: final thoughts

Understanding emerging security technologies and prominent cyber and physical security industry trends is often key to modern organizations developing proactive strategies and truly reliable security policies. However, business leaders, physical security professionals and information technology security experts must work together to plan the implementation of the latest security technology in line with existing systems and projected growth.

Leveraging emerging security technologies and new security technology trends for 2025, alongside trusted policies and effective security management, can help businesses to future-proof key operations and improve the efficiency of daily tasks. In fact, many cyber and physical security technology trends of 2025 reflect this, with AI-informed automations and remote-access functionality appearing as common aspects of current and expected future security trends.

By assessing the physical and cyber security trends covered in this guide and working closely with relevant departments to develop detailed installation and integration plans, businesses of any size should be well-equipped to update and improve their security measures by new security technology trends for 2025.