Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organisations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organisations digitise their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organisations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organisations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organisations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organisations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognised certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2 and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organisations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimisation by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

ISC West 2025 in Las Vegas showcased the latest advancements in security technology, offering security professionals a glimpse into the future of the industry. This year's expo highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and enhanced integration. The pioneering comprehensive and converged security event attracted nearly 29,000 industry professionals to the Venetian Convention Centre.  Integration into unified platforms Several companies emphasised the importance of cloud-based solutions and the integration of diverse security components into unified platforms. For example, Brivo's Security Suite provides “everything in one platform” – not just access control. Customers only pay for what they use because the system is flexible and scalable from a single door to enterprise level applications. Brivo’s suite includes video, but the system can also tie in with third-party “partners.” Genetec's Security Centre allows for more frequent updates through the cloud. Milestone is undergoing a two-year transition to bring its Xprotect system into the future by incorporating Arcules and Briefcam into a video-as-a service product. Suprema introduced BioStar X, which integrates access control and video analytics into a single platform. AI and mobile credentials  Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West 2025 Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West – Eagle Eye Networks, SecuriThings, and Wesco. They join the three partners announced during the first year of Axis Cloud Connect – Genetec, Kone (elevators) and Milestone. AI and mobile credentials were still hot topics at ISC West 2025, but the conversation has evolved beyond amazement at the technologies’ capabilities and now centres on more practical aspects. From the theoretical to the practical “AI and mobility are still the ‘flavors de jour,’ but messages are evolving to manifest AI for better outcomes,” says Heather Torrey, General Manager, Commercial Security, Americas, for Honeywell Building Automation. The company has reframed its security portfolio to be very building- and business-focused, continuing to grow and evolve after the recent acquisition of LenelS2. “From the theoretical to the practical, we want customers to be part of the conversation so we can deliver AI that is meaningful to them, focusing on what’s most important,” says Torrey. Under Honeywell’s new ownership structure, “each part of the business can be more focused on customers’ needs,” she says. Honeywell continues its journey around mobile access and credentialing and migrating to cloud solutions. Innovations in Access Control Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems Access control remains a critical component of security systems, and ISC West 2025 showcased several innovations in this area. Acre is releasing “Gallery,” its version of the App Store for access control. DormaKaba is launching the Keyscan KC Series door controller with TCP/IP connectivity and enhanced features. Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems. Johnson Controls highlighted its C-Cure command centre and C-Cure IQ web client, offering a unified approach to access control and video. Hardware integrations for security panels For service provider Alarm.com, hardware products prepare a path to greater customer experiences, says Abe Kinney, Alarm.com’s Director, Product Management, who oversees hardware integrations for security panels, sensors, video, etc., and drives new product development. “We are looking to bridge the physical world to digital world,” he says. “We want to bring an advantage to our dealers that they can bring to customers.” Because Alarm.com’s customers pay a monthly fee, the products must be durable and economical, says Kinney. “It should work with no need for truck rolls.” The importance of longevity and flexibility Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation. In particular, longevity is important for the Alarm.com’s pro channel. There is also a growing emphasis on deterrence industrywide. Says Kinney: “We recognise that detection is part of it, but we need to prevent problems from happening in the first place. And the industry is re-evaluating.” When it comes to cloud intelligence, Eagle Eye Networks puts the emphasis on flexibility. They offer AI that can perform anywhere on the system infrastructure, on the camera, on their on-site bridge device, or in the cloud. They support their own AI and also any AI product from a third party. “We focus on what customers want from the data AI detects,” says Hans Kahler, Eagle Eye Networks’ Chief Operating Officer. Integration with other systems A timely alert from gun detection could save a life, but AI can also generate information that might be used and analysed later, such as point-of-sale information, dwell time, foot traffic, etc. “What people want is the ability to work with the data for business intelligence,” says Kahler. Integration with other systems provides new opportunities for customers: For example, a licence plate reader at a restaurant drive-thru could trigger customisation of the menu board digital signage based on the customer’s previous buying pattern. Relentless Innovation Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million SKUs for all its various brands, faked in 28 factories in the US Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million stock keeping units (SKUs) for all its various brands manufactured in 28 factories in the United States. Merely complying with regulations such as the “Buy American Act” is a monumental effort considering the massive product line, attendees heard at Assa Abloy’s Annual ISC West Breakfast focusing on compliance challenges in the security market. Meanwhile, back at the trade show booth, Assa Abloy focused on “relentless innovation” in every corner of its product line. Assa Abloy’s message: Innovation in security does not have to be about AI or automation. In fact, inventive approaches to products come in all shapes and sizes and at every level of the product portfolio, and innovation is happening faster than ever. For example, the Safebolt product from Securitech, a brand recently acquired by Assa Abloy, can quickly lock down existing doors with the press of a red button on a cylindrical or mortise lock. Temporary Systems to Secure Events Securing events is the focus of Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions, which specialises in setting up temporary security systems for conventions, trade shows, festivals, construction sites, parades, and other events. They can add technology to situations where previously mostly security officers were used, providing safety/security and enabling more efficient event operation.  “We can put cameras anywhere, whether they need power or not, use cell service or WiFi, a localised network or the internet, or whatever,” says Andrew LaMadrid, VP, Sales for Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions. Event operation and management IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past The focus is on easy implementation, flexibility, and fast setup and removal. “We look for a solution to solve each customer’s pain points,” says LaMadrid. They specialise in setting up and deploying surveillance cameras for safety/security and for event operation and management. Mobile surveillance is a relatively new “piece of our puzzle” when it comes to protecting high-profile events. “People are excited about what we can offer that’s new,” says LaMadrid. Unified Command Solutions has been around for about 12 years and was acquired by Allied Universal last summer. IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past, and visitors were very interested in those solutions, says Scott Switzer, IDIS CEO. “The progression of our product line has been tremendous,” he says. Last year, the IDIS booth offered only basic analytics, but this year they had 30 different advanced analytics including gun and aggression detection using the advanced solution “IDIS Vaidio AI.”  What Makes You Different? The most common question IDIS hears at their trade show booth is: “What makes you different?” The answer: They offer an end-to-end solution, including cameras; they manage, control, design from end-to-end; and there is no need for multiple integrations. The time needed to install an IDIS system is significantly less because of the simplicity. “We have customers we have supported and grown together for over 20 years,” says Switzer. The company previously deployed IDIS cameras under the Costar brand before the Korean IDIS brand was introduced into the U.S. (IDIS purchased Costar and changed the name to IDIS America.) “This has been a tremendous show for us; we are looking to build our momentum and let more people know about IDIS,” says Switzer. Managing real AI at the edge The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations Based in Prague, Czech Republic, and with U.S. offices in Pennsylvania, FF Group provides licence plate recognition for harsh environments. Using Axis cameras, they offer “managed real AI at the edge,” selling through a nationwide distributed network, says Alex Osypov, CEO and Founder of FF Group. Markets include parking lots, cities/municipalities, police, government, water systems, etc. The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations. They are looking to combine and correlate data including LIDAR, RADAR, etc. to exploit the advantages of “data fusion.” Osypov says: “The market is growing because we are involving other adjacent markets.” Unified platforms and advanced tools Several companies are focusing on enhancing security operations centres (SOCs) by providing unified platforms and advanced tools. Axon’s Fusus system “layers” onto existing infrastructure, tying together various sensors into a single interface for real-time monitoring and information sharing. Increasingly, enterprises have invested in a lot of technologies – ac, video, asset trackers – but none of it talks together. Fusus ties all the systems together so that operators no longer have to look at 10 different screens. Rather, there is a “single pane of glass” that shows everything and facilitates sharing of information with law enforcement.  Motorola also showcased its Security Operations Centre, which integrates hardware, software, smart sensors, communication radios, and broadband devices to streamline incident management.

Physical security technologies are a prominent tool used by correctional facilities to provide a safe, secure, and controlled environment for staff, inmates, and the wider community. Among several functions, security technologies are used to prevent unauthorised access, to detect contraband, to monitor inmate movements and activities, and to protect staff. For security technology manufacturers, integrators and consultants, the corrections market presents distinctive challenges. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the unique aspects of the corrections market, and how should the physical security industry adapt?

In the modern security landscape, AI is no longer a futuristic luxury. It is the cornerstone of safety. From detecting potential hazards in real-time to optimising traffic flow, AI has empowered organisations to see what the human eye might miss. However, as AI’s capabilities expand, so does a critical question for users, “Can we trust the intelligence behind the lens?” At Hanwha Vision, they believe that innovation without accountability is a liability. This is why they are proud to announce that we have achieved ISO/IEC 42001 certification, the world’s first international standard for a certifiable Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS). But for us, this isn’t just about hanging a new certificate on the wall. It is a formal promise to our partners and customers that our entire process for developing and deploying AI is governed by a ‘human-centric’ philosophy. The shift from optional to obligatory The global community is moving fast to ensure AI remains a force for good. With the enforcement of the EU AI Act, the world’s first comprehensive AI law, and similar legislative movements in the US and Asia, the regulatory grey area is disappearing. These regulations are not just bureaucratic hurdles. They are a response to genuine concerns regarding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the potential for surveillance overreach. For an end-user, choosing a provider that aligns with these global standards is no longer just a matter of ethics. It is a matter of long-term operational security. By adhering to ISO/IEC 42001, Hanwha Vision proactively meets these stringent requirements, ensuring our customers are protected from the legal and ethical risks of non-compliant AI. Our core AI principles To maintain this high standard of excellence, they have institutionalised the Responsible AI (RAI) Council. This dedicated decision-making body sets internal compliance standards, conducts pre-release risk assessments, and monitors ongoing AI performance. By doing so, they ensure every innovation is rooted in our core Ethical AI Principles. Safety & Reliability: They believe AI must be a dependable partner, performing consistently in any environment to ensure public safety. Privacy & Human Dignity: They respect individual rights as a non-negotiable value, ensuring technology never compromises the dignity of the people it serves. Transparency & Fairness: They are committed to integrity, rejecting ‘black box’ processes to ensure our intelligence is both auditable and impartial. Bringing principles to life How do these principles translate into the technology inside a security system? At Hanwha Vision, our AI management framework serves as the strict technical requirements that guide how our AI is built and deployed. Privacy by Design: They use AI to protect privacy, not just to monitor. Our systems can mask faces or sensitive areas in real-time, ensuring that security data is used only for its intended purpose without compromising individual anonymity. Eliminating Algorithmic Bias: A security system must be fair. They rigorously audit our training datasets to ensure our AI recognises people and objects accurately across diverse environments and demographics, preventing discriminatory outcomes. Data Integrity & Security: AI is only as good as the data it learns from. They strictly manage our datasets to prevent any unauthorised tampering or data poisoning. By securing both the data and the algorithms, they ensure our AI provides consistent, accurate, and untampered insights that our customers can always trust.  Transparency & Explainability: They believe users should understand how AI decisions are made. Our framework ensures that our AI processes are auditable and transparent, moving away from the opaque black box approach to technology. A future built on trust The video surveillance industry is entering a new era where technical specs alone no longer define excellence. As AI becomes more autonomous, the true competitive edge lies in accountability. They recognise that our customers aren’t just looking for advanced features. They are looking for a partner that operates with ethical certainty in an unpredictable digital landscape. For Hanwha Vision, establishing a trustworthy AI management system is not a one-time milestone. They will remain tireless in our pursuit of validated excellence, ensuring our practices not only meet but anticipate the highest global standards for transparency and safety. Hanwha Vision stands as a partner you can trust - not just for the clarity of our images, but for the integrity of our intelligence.

Semperis, the identity-driven cyber resilience and crisis management company, announces the acquisition of MightyID, the best-of-breed identity resilience specialist for cloud identity providers Okta and Ping. This acquisition allows Semperis to extend true cyber resilience with identity-first security and crisis management across complex hybrid identity environments including Microsoft Active Directory (AD), Entra ID, Okta and Ping. “This strategic move furthers our mission to help organisations achieve true cyber resilience,” said Mickey Bresman, Semperis CEO. “Effective defence means resilience- not just prevention - so operations can continue, even under attack. This acquisition advances our leadership in identity-driven security and crisis management, helping organisations ensure mission continuity in the face of modern cyberattacks.” Cloud identity platforms Named in Gartner’s 2025 Guidance for Workforce Access Management, MightyID’s capabilities span backup, restore, migration, and failover for cloud identity platforms and are designed to ensure that authentication and access continue even when primary systems experience problems. “With MightyID joining Semperis, we’re extending our comprehensive identity resilience across the identity fabric - the complex web of IdPs, apps, users, devices, and governance solutions that organisations manage,” said Alex Weinert, Semperis Chief Product Officer. “That means stronger coverage across hybrid identity and multi-cloud environments, on prem or in the cloud, where an outage anywhere can become a business crisis everywhere.” Managing hybrid identity systems The integration of MightyID into the Semperis identity resilience platform will deliver broad comprehensive capabilities for organisations managing hybrid identity systems: Continuous exposure management to prevent sophisticated attacks that move laterally from on-prem identity systems to cloud environments Automated remediation of malicious changes across the hybrid identity environment Flexible, fast recovery of hybrid identity systems, with built-in fault tolerance to handle the chaotic incident response (IR) environment Turnkey crisis management to accelerate return to normal business operations following an attack Cloud identity platforms “Combining MightyID’s innovation in protecting cloud identity platforms with Semperis’ established expertise in full-lifecycle identity resilience ultimately benefits any organisation that needs to protect their complex, multi-cloud identity environments from attacks,” said Chris Steinke, Chief Operating Officer, MightyID. “Given that hybrid AD and Entra ID environments are the infrastructure backbone for 90% of businesses worldwide, this move ensures a seamless, flexible approach to identity resilience that will protect organisations regardless of which cloud identity platform they choose.”

SailPoint, Inc., a pioneer in unified identity security for enterprises, is showcasing how its customers are embracing the new era of adaptive identity security. As businesses increasingly adopt AI and automation, they face a growing challenge: securing an explosion of non-human identities such as machines and AI agents. SailPoint is addressing this new reality head-on, delivering the next generation of identity security that is built to adapt and scale for the modern enterprise. Rapid integration of AI The rapid integration of AI and automated agents into the enterprise has created a critical new security challenge. To address this, organisations require an identity security strategy that can govern and secure this new class of non-human identities with the same rigour as their human counterparts. SailPoint’s latest innovations are designed specifically for this purpose, extending its market-leading platform to provide comprehensive visibility and control over every identity, human and non-human. One of these is SailPoint Agent Identity Security, which enables organisations to discover, classify, govern, and secure every agent across the enterprise. Forward-thinking approach This forward-thinking approach is already being validated by key customers who are on the front lines of enterprise transformation. “As the number of autonomous agents grows, organisations need a way to govern their access with the same rigor as human identities,” said Tony Leraris, Chief Information Officer at Accenture. “We will be evaluating how SailPoint’s Agent Identity Security can complement our existing controls to support safe, enterprise-wide AI adoption.” Concept of adaptive identity At the core of this evolution is the concept of adaptive identity, an approach that is dynamic, intelligent, and tailored to the risk and context of each access request. This brings together identity, data, and security signals to provide clarity, control, and scale across every enterprise identity. Providing the security operations center with this integrative identity context enables teams to respond and remediate issues in real-time. SailPoint customers are already embracing this vision to future-proof their security posture. Unified identity platforms “Adaptive identity, to me, is about moving from static, one-size-fits-all access controls to a more flexible, context-aware model,” said Victor Montgomery, Director, Information Security, State Farm. “This means continuously assessing risk signals like user behaviour, device health, location, and time, and then adjusting access in real-time to minimise exposure.” “Our research found that more than half of organisations worldwide are expanding their deployment of unified identity platforms as they strive to deliver comprehensive coverage of all users across all environments, while reducing complexity,” said Mark Child, Associate Research Director at IDC. “A comprehensive, natively integrated, and highly scalable platform is one of the top factors organisations are looking for from their identity and access providers. Moreover, enterprises stress the need to manage and secure a growing spectrum of user categories, including non-human identity types such as AI agents, cloud workloads, device identities, and service accounts.” Sensitive enterprise data With AI agents empowered to act autonomously, machine identities operating without human context, and the rise of sensitive enterprise data, it’s become clear that securing the enterprise needs an entirely different approach. Data access must be governed across every identity. Static policies are no longer enough. They must be real-time. The early traction SailPoint sees from its innovations suggests that organisations are already feeling this pressure. “We saw an opportunity to help organisations navigate this new phase of identity security with innovations that can adapt to modern automated, complex identity environments,” said Chandra Gnanasambandam, CTO and EVP Product, SailPoint. “The strong response we’ve seen from our customers signals that they have been waiting for a vision like this and are now moving to adopt it quickly and with conviction.”

Global cybersecurity pioneer AlgoSec has released its annual State of Network Security Report, providing a comprehensive vendor-agnostic analysis of today’s network security landscape. The report identifies a decisive shift in how organisations are responding to network evolution and hybrid architecture sprawl, with the focus shifting back towards consolidation; defined by unification, automation and control as businesses look to manage visibility of risk and resilience posture. Based on comparative year-on-year findings, AlgoSec’s research includes over 500 responses from security, network and cloud professionals across 28 countries and evaluates market pioneer including AWS, Cisco, Microsoft Azure, GCP, Check Point, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet and more. Major structural changes Key findings from the report include: AI-powered threats and defences go mainstream – Artificial intelligence has become both the newest threat vector and the next frontier of defence. For the first time, AlgoSec’s research asked how organisations are adjusting to the rise of AI-powered attacks. The majority (65%) have already adapted their strategies, with 23.6% making major structural changes and 40.9% implementing moderate adjustments. Cloud firewall strategies prioritise consolidation - The move toward cloud-based firewalls continues, but with a change in tone. Nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents plan to move primarily to cloud firewalls over the next two years, confirming that cloud-native controls are no longer a consideration, but a baseline expectation. Security becomes the deciding factor in cloud platform selection – The rise of AI-driven workloads, compliance requirements and cross-platform orchestration has made security the critical benchmark for platform selection, with 54.7% of organisations stating that security capabilities carry the most weight when selecting a cloud platform. SD-WAN further cements its role – As organisations expand their hybrid environments and distributed workforces, the demand for secure, high-performance connectivity has solidified SD-WAN’s role. Fortinet (31%) has become the most widely used SD-WAN solution while Cisco (30.7%) remains a close second. SASE moves from exploration to standardisation – For the third-year running, the share of organisations without a SASE solution has declined, down to 27.5% from 40% in 2024. This consistent decrease signals that SASE adoption is no longer exploratory, but a planned progression for most enterprises. Multi-cloud environments “Compared to last year, we are now seeing a transition from experimentation to optimisation,” said Eran Shiff, Chief Product Officer at AlgoSec. “After several years of rapid expansion across multi-cloud environments, AI-powered operations and hybrid architectures, organisations are entering a new phase of consolidation and control. Our survey reveals a collective recalibration, with organisations moving away from tool proliferation toward unified management, shared visibility and measurable automation.”

Driven by Chile’s updated telecom regulations, Agile Ingeniería y Consultoría has partnered with Regula, a global developer of Identity Verification (IDV) solutions, to deploy a high-volume, high-compliance IDV system. The platform now enables the Chilean telecom sector to process more than 300,000 identity checks each month with the same document authentication accuracy used at border checkpoints, achieving a 96% conversion rate and full alignment with the country’s new requirements. Challenge Until recently, SIM activations and number portability in Chile were vulnerable to fraud due to a lack of reliable verification controls. The new regulation, introduced in early 2025, set stricter standards for verifying the identity of every user activating a phone line or prepaid SIM card. Solution To meet these requirements while keeping customer onboarding fast and frictionless, Agile integrated Regula Document Reader SDK into its identity verification platform.  Regula’s solution performs deep authenticity checks across MRZs, barcodes, RFID chips, holograms, and optically variable elements, using a liveness-centric approach to confirm the document’s physical presence and authenticity. It also cross-verifies data across all document zones to detect inconsistencies or tampering, exposing even sophisticated forgeries without slowing down the user journey. “Regula was brought in to specifically address the need to read and validate a range of identity documents that would have been very difficult for us to integrate on our own. Today, this allows us to verify and onboard individuals from anywhere in the world who have an identity document, significantly expanding our reach,” says Claudio Delgado, Co-Founder and Product Manager at Agile. Results After deploying Regula’s solution, there were several significant improvements, including: 96% customer conversion rate, even with added verification steps.300,000+ ID checks per month handled efficiently and securely. Significant reduction in fraud and SIM misuse.Full compliance with Chilean telecom Resolution No. 566/2024. Moderising technology “We’re proud to support Agile in modernising telecom identity verification in Latin America. Our technology delivers verification accuracy on par with border checkpoints, in any environment, helping organisations fight fraud with zero compromise on speed, trust, and compliance,” comments Ihar Kliashchou, Chief Technology Officer at Regula.

DeterTech, the official site security partner of Brentford FC, is proud to support an accredited Safe Haven established by the club at Gtech Community Stadium, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to community safety and wellbeing. Located in Brentford FC’s west stand security hub on Lionel Road South, it will provide support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It will be managed by trained security staff and is open to any member of the public who feels vulnerable or needs help. Contacting emergency services Safe Havens are dedicated spaces of support that help people with their onward journey by providing various forms of assistance, such as contacting emergency services, phone charging facilities, calling a taxi, or reaching friends and family. Accredited by the Safer Business Network, shops, cafes, pubs, libraries, and other venues can also become a registered Safe Haven. “Our purpose at DeterTech is always to bring greater peace of mind to people and communities, every day. The Safe Haven campaign is one of many powerful examples of how we put that into action,” said Sarah Craig, Chief Marketing Officer at DeterTech. Various forms of assistance Brentford’s chief executive Jon Varney said: “We are a club that sits in the heart of the community and it is vital that we are able to support our fans and those living in the local area. In creating a Safe Haven space at our stadium, we are ensuring there is help available for anyone at any time of day.” “This builds on the wide-ranging work we are doing with fans and partners as part of our continued commitment to create inclusive and safer environments for women and girls, not just on a matchday but everyday.” Crime prevention sessions As the official site security partner of Brentford FC, this initiative is another way for DeterTech to assist Brentford FC’s commitment to fan safety and community wellbeing, following other events such as crime prevention sessions and free bike marking for fans on matchdays. Drawing upon DeterTech’s experience in risk management and deterrent technologies, DeterTech will support the Safe Haven team with resources and guidance to help Brentford FC deliver a safe and inclusive experience for all.

Chubbsafe, part of Gunnebo Safe Storage, in partnership with VOUROS O.E., has completed the tailor-made specification of safe storage solutions for a private compound of 13 luxury villas in the Cycladic Islands, Greece. The villas required reliable storage for jewellery, watches, and important documents across both private suites and administrative areas. Traditional high-grade safes, while secure, were considered heavy, difficult to position, and visually intrusive. Certified burglary resistance For this project, compact safes with certified burglary resistance were specified. With flexible anchoring options, their lighter construction allowed installation inside wardrobes and other discreet spaces without altering the properties’ structure or interior design. Says Georgios Vouros, Managing Director of VOUROS O.E: “The collaboration highlights a shift in the Greek luxury property market, where homeowners expect certified protection that blends seamlessly into refined interiors. Chubbsafes’ compact and discreet solutions meet this need by delivering proven burglary resistance without altering the design or structural features of the villas.” DIY friendly installation DIY friendly installation enabled minimal disruption to residents, drawing on the long-standing partnership, which began in 1956 when VOUROS first introduced Chubbsafes products to Greece, before coming a sole distributor in 1997. The project demonstrates how technology originally developed for banks and jewellers can be adapted to residential requirements, providing certified protection to EN 1143-1 and EN 1300 certified mechanical or electronic lock, all in a format suited to private homes. “Luxury homeowners want the same level of certified protection that professional institutions have relied on for years, but in a format suited to connected lifestyles,” Jolanta Derbich, Channel Development Manager Southern and Eastern Europe of Gunnebo Safe Storage concluded. “Our partnership with VOUROS combines global engineering expertise with local knowledge to deliver solutions that protect valuable possessions while fitting into residential environments.”

ZeroEyes, the creators of the first AI-based gun detection video analytics platform to earn the full US Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, announces that its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness platform has been deployed by New Jersey’s Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District to protect students and faculty against gun-related violence. The district serves approximately 1,800 students and 350 staff members across two four-year public high schools: Indian Hills High School and Ramapo High School. Located in Bergen County, New Jersey, the district educates students from the suburban communities of Franklin Lakes, Oakland, and Wyckoff.   Multilayered security approach ZeroEyes complements the district’s multilayered security approach, which also includes a school resource officer (SRO), modernised public address system, enhanced camera infrastructure, strobelight alerts, and more. "Our leadership team, in collaboration with our Board of Education, is constantly exploring new approaches and ideas to stay ahead of potential security issues and enable the best possible response to a school-based threat,” said Charlie Wolff, District Security Coordinator and School Safety Specialist, Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education. “Partnering with ZeroEyes allows us to take our video surveillance system to a whole new level. At Ramapo Indian Hills, our primary goal is to create a safe learning environment for every student, and we achieve this through an ongoing cycle of security evaluation, implementation, and refinement.” Intelligent situational awareness ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation center, which is staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to law enforcement and local security teams as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. “We’re proud to support the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District in its mission to provide a safe, secure learning environment,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and cofounder of ZeroEyes. “The district’s decision to implement ZeroEyes demonstrates their dedication to prioritising security and enabling their students to focus on their education.”