Important insights from the state of physical security report 2025
At Demex, we keep a close eye on all the latest trends shaping the physical security landscape, not just fences and gates, and the recent State of Physical Security report from Genetec offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities organisations are facing as they adapt to emerging technologies.
AI’s Role in Shaping Security Solutions
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making significant strides in the physical security industry, with 37% of organisations planning to implement AI tools by 2025. While the potential of AI to automate operations and enhance security management is clear, many organisations (27%) are still uncertain about how best to deploy AI. Despite these challenges, AI holds great promise, particularly in streamlining emergency response, predicting future threats, and leveraging video analytics to improve operational efficiency. However, 75% of end users express concerns over AI’s design and ethical considerations, highlighting the need for clear guidelines from vendors to foster trust and accelerate adoption.
The Growing Role of IT in Security Decisions
IT departments are increasingly influencing physical security decisions, often taking the lead in purchasing and implementation. As the integration of cybersecurity and physical security deepens, IT professionals are prioritising cybersecurity tools and cloud-based solutions. In fact, 47% of IT professionals are focusing on cybersecurity deployments in 2024, compared to just 27% of physical security professionals. This shift highlights the importance of collaboration between IT and security teams, ensuring a more unified approach to both physical and digital security, and strengthening organisational resilience.
Turning Physical Security into a Business Asset
The report underscores the growing shift from viewing physical security as a cost centre to recognising its role in driving business value. By integrating physical security data with broader IT systems, organisations can uncover valuable insights that help inform strategic decision-making. In 2025, 22% of end users plan to enhance security data access and reporting to better support business strategy. This approach not only helps safeguard assets but also positions physical security teams as integral contributors to overall business success and ROI.
Security Trends in Europe
In Europe, the focus is on modernising outdated security systems and upgrading intrusion detection capabilities. A substantial 55% of European respondents plan to replace or upgrade legacy systems by 2025, reflecting the push for innovation. Interestingly, Europe lags behind the global trend in cloud-based video storage, with 55% of users in the region planning to avoid cloud storage by 2025. However, Europe is ahead in adopting intrusion detection systems, with 55% of respondents prioritising these systems compared to the global average of 33%, underscoring a strong emphasis on proactive threat prevention.
Key Takeaways for 2025:
- Practicality Over Hype: Organisations are focused on implementing reliable, value-driven security solutions. While innovation is still important, the priority is on practical technologies that enhance security without adding unnecessary complexity or cost. Access control and video surveillance remain top priorities.
- IT Drives Decision-Making: The increased involvement of IT in physical security reflects the growing convergence of physical and cybersecurity. Collaboration between IT and security teams is essential to creating a holistic security strategy that protects both physical and digital assets.
- Security as a Strategic Asset: Physical security is evolving from a cost centre to a key driver of business value. By integrating security systems and leveraging data analytics, security teams are contributing to broader business objectives and ROI.
As organisations face the complexities of security in 2025, the report highlights the importance of collaboration, practical technology deployment, and a strategic approach to security to build a more secure and efficient future. At Demex, we continue to stay ahead of these trends, ensuring that our solutions meet the evolving security needs of our clients.
