The Future of Guarding: Security Technology and Training Trends in 2025

The New Perimeter: Security Trends to Watch

By all reports, property crime is down significantly across the nation (source). And yet, the number of incidents is still quite staggering, indicating the need for continued vigilance.

While it would be challenging to pinpoint the precise reasons why crime rates dropped so dramatically in just one year, it may be related to new security techniques and technologies, which continue to play a pivotal role in preventing crime.

Most security industry leaders agree that the combination of human intelligence and AI is the future of security. This hybrid approach enhances the work guards already do, improving response times, safety, and mitigating risk to people and property.

Additionally, technology makes security scalable, meaning firms can expand their reach to meet client needs without putting undue stress on their existing systems—or people.

So, what does the future of security look like? Will robot patrols, drones, and AI detection replace traditional guard posts? Ultimately, that doesn’t seem to be the direction we’re going in. However, we’re already seeing how machines and humans can work together to create a world that’s safer, friendlier, and more people-focused than ever before.

So let’s dive a little deeper and look at the trends shaping the security industry in 2025 and beyond.

Locking Down 2025: Emerging Security Trends to Watch

Here are some of the top security trends shaping our industry today.

1.     Robotic security patrols

Mobile robotic security units come in various shapes and sizes, but some standard features include highly advanced 360˚ cameras, two-way comms, AI threat analysis, alarms, flashing lights, and more.

Will they replace a physical guard presence? Unlikely. While robots are very good at some things, they lack empathy and can make mistakes. They need human intervention to mitigate false results and ensure people are seen and heard.

We’re already seeing more robotic patrol units on job sites. Rather than replacing the physical guard presence, they augment what guards already do, providing an extra set of eyes and ears and enabling more efficient and consistent patrolling of large spaces, such as factory floors, warehouses, and parking garages.

When an incident occurs, the data is immediately transmitted to the command center, allowing guards to respond quickly and appropriately.

2.     AI threat detection

      As AI-powered security becomes more efficient, it will be able to accurately identify suspicious conduct, detect weapons, and analyze crowd behavior. AI can process millions of data points, potentially reducing response time from minutes to seconds. Closing the gap on response times could save lives and prevent crime.

Since the technology is still in its infancy, it is not infallible and requires ongoing human oversight. In time, and with more data to train the AI on, systems will become more reliable, providing guards with a valuable tool to extend their reach and capabilities.

The behavioral analysis aspect of AI is one of the most exciting advancements, as it introduces an unbiased analysis of potentially high-stakes situations. In a perfect world, guards will face fewer false alarms and can focus on genuine threats.

3.     Advanced access control with biometrics

Modern access control systems employ various methods, often combining different technologies to enhance the reliability of authorized access. For example, traditional access badges or key cards combined with facial recognition ensure unauthorized individuals can’t use cards if they are stolen or lost.

Data privacy frameworks play a pivotal role in how biometric data can be used and stored, which is one of the most significant barriers to adoption. Most international legislation includes the right to be forgotten, and requires formal consent to data collection – details that will undoubtedly be built into newer versions of these systems.

4.     License plate recognition

License plate recognition (LPR) is an emerging tool used by businesses to monitor and control vehicle access to restricted spaces. In a closed setting, license plate recognition can enable vehicle access. It is already used by municipalities for toll collection, at intersections to monitor traffic flow, and by law enforcement for speed and parking control.

In the security realm, license plate data can be integrated with national databases and used to track stolen vehicles or apprehend fugitives. If a flagged vehicle enters a patrolled area, an alert is generated so responders can act appropriately.

5.     Remote monitoring and virtual guards

The security industry has historically experienced high turnover and is often understaffed. Virtual devices and sensors can replace physical guards at low-risk access points, such as parking gates and building lobbies, transmitting data to the command center for high-level oversight and management. However, this does not eliminate the need for guards. What it does mean is that fewer guards are needed to monitor access points, and a single guard can oversee several gates from a central command post.

That being said, there are many examples of self-serve remote monitoring that do not require constant oversight, like using QR codes at kiosks for event check-ins.

6.     Drone surveillance

Security can be challenging over vast acreage, such as you might encounter at oilfields, pipelines, and military facilities. Drones are the ideal solution as they can safely and efficiently monitor perimeters, allowing businesses to enable advanced security with minimal investment.

Autonomous drones are also used to support firefighters and law enforcement in situations where it would be too dangerous for humans. Equipped with thermal cameras and smart sensors, they can detect anomalies that would be nearly impossible otherwise, enabling real-time response without the need for physical guard presence.

7.     Sustainability trends

Today’s corporate sustainability initiatives often revolve around reducing a business’s carbon footprint, thereby reducing Scope 1 emissions. Solar-powered security systems and methanol-powered surveillance units are fast replacing traditional diesel generators, the switch often fueled by government rebates and incentives. Examples include cameras and emergency lighting, both of which are valuable installations in areas where electricity and connectivity are challenging.

8.     Advanced guard training

Many of the systemic issues plaguing the security industry can be solved (or at least mitigated) with advanced guard training. Firms that prioritize guard training enjoy better guard retention, reduced liability, and much-improved guard confidence and public safety.

Plus, with all this new technology comes a need for personnel who are trained to operate it. As threats evolve and new security tech becomes more mainstream, clients will prioritize guards who can take on these tasks with confidence.

Online training is fast becoming the solution of choice as it is consistent, unbiased, and scalable to a company’s needs. Firms can monitor guard progress and identify emerging talent based on completion rates and scores, helping them fill leadership pipelines that would otherwise be incredibly laborious, risky, and costly through traditional recruiting methods.

The Bottom Line on 2025 Security Trends

While we can’t predict the future, it’s easy to see where we’re headed. Today’s trends are shaping tomorrow’s security, informing learning pathways and business decisions to align with evolving client needs.

Explore Defencify’s training courses or speak to us about how to develop a tailored Training Academy for your firm.