Midway through 2025, we’ve seen the networking technology trends of previous years continue and amplify. Network speed remains a top priority, but the increased complexity of hybrid work environments has only expanded the attack surface. Emerging technologies such as Generative AI, and other evolving technologies, such as IoT and edge computing, have driven the need for fast, low-latency networks.
However, this push has also pushed networking professionals to rely on AI-driven tools to increase visibility and sift through endless alerts for actual threats. Threat actors are also using AI in increasingly malicious and sophisticated ways, causing networking teams to fight fire with fire—or in this case, fight AI with AI.
In this post, we’ll examine these networking technology trends and the security tools, frameworks, and best practices evolving alongside them.
Networking technology drivers
Discussing networking security trends without first examining the innovations driving networking in general is impossible. Below is a brief overview of critical forces and technologies in 2025.
AI/Agentic AI
AI and automation continue to reshape all aspects of IT, and networking technology is no different. AI and networking are closely linked, as one relies on the other to function well. The next phase in the evolution of AI, agentic AI, will both drive and support the needs of network security. In other words, as agentic AI adoption increases, enterprises must rely on secure, modern networks to support it. Additionally, AI agents are emerging as tools to help monitor, manage, and secure enterprise networks—more on this later.
Also read: Building Cyber Resilient Enterprises: The Role of AI Cybersecurity Tools
IoT and edge computing
The number of IoT devices has exploded in recent years, growing to 20.1 billion globally in 2025, up 13.21% over 2024. IoT devices have numerous use cases in various industries, including retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. These devices depend on edge networks, that is, network technology that functions somewhat autonomously from the rest of the enterprise.
Multi-Cloud
Organizations are having trouble finding “one-size-fits-all” cloud solutions. This situation means they rely on several cloud tools and/or vendors, based on the needs and security requirements of different departments, branches, or business segments. Unifying multi-Clouds in a cohesive environment without limiting visibility or sacrificing security remains challenging.
5G
5G is no longer just a buzzword. Many organizations have found private 5G networks ideal for edge networks, IoT deployments, and other applications.
Wi-Fi 7
Could 2025 see widespread Wi-Fi 7 adoption? Implementation challenges may continue to prove too daunting an investment for most enterprises. However, one of the key use cases of Wi-Fi 7 is faster AR and VR. It may be well worth the upgrade costs for enterprises with digital twinning or other AR/VR applications as a key part of their business.
Sustainability
AI has significant power needs, which has spotlighted energy efficiency and sustainability. Machine learning can help optimize energy usage, but new energy-efficient technology like photonics, which uses light rather than electrons, is currently being explored.
Security trends
Networking agents and automation (AI)
AI networking agents simplify network technology management through natural language prompts rather than CLI commands that technicians must often rely on. They allow network teams to “have a conversation” with their network using prompts such as “Which applications are causing network slowdowns?”
These AI agents learn over time and, with proper supervision, can become increasingly autonomous and proactive, often flagging network issues before an end user becomes aware of them.
Zero trust gains broader adoption
Zero trust is certainly not a new concept. However, as VPNs prove inadequate at the enterprise scale, zero-trust architecture continues to gain more ground. Zero-trust principles can be applied to almost any area of IT. In networking, zero trust means no device, user, or identity is inherently trusted. All users must verify their identities and reverify when moving to a different task or set of permissions.
Unifying networks with cloud security
Secure access service edge (SASE) is a network architecture that works well with zero trust. SASE combines a virtualized WAN network with cloud security tools like next-gen firewalls (NGFW) and cloud access security brokers (CASB).
Like zero trust, SASE is not a new concept. However, with the key networking technology drivers mentioned earlier in this post putting pressure on the technology landscape, SASE is gaining new relevance and increased adoption.
Learn more: Next-gen Networking: The Benefits of SASE in a Heightened Threat Landscape
Future outlook
As AI becomes more integrated into networks and our lives, optimizing the balance between humans and machine learning will become more integral and may become the primary role of IT departments in the future.
While quantum computing is far from a household concern, enterprises should start planning for the transition now. Quantum computers will make modern encryption obsolete, so it’s better to start planning now than be caught on the back foot.
How Pomeroy can help you secure your network
The rise of technologies such as IoT, 5G, and edge computing presents businesses with challenges and opportunities. Companies must prioritize network technology security and adaptability to navigate this evolving environment effectively.
With extensive experience and strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Aruba and Cisco, Pomeroy is well-equipped to guide organizations in enhancing their network security frameworks. Through comprehensive services such as Security Assessments and our tailored security consulting, Pomeroy helps clients fortify their networks and capitalize on newfound efficiencies and agility.
By partnering with Pomeroy, businesses can ensure they are ready for the future and leverage these advancements for lasting success. Embrace these trends today to build a more secure and resilient networking foundation for tomorrow.
