2025 Global Study on Closing the IT Security Gap

This research report, conducted by the Ponemon Institute and sponsored by Hewlett Packard Enterprise, investigates the ongoing challenges organizations face in closing the IT security gap. The study highlights that organizations experienced an average of six security breaches in 2024, prompting a shift in their security strategies. Key findings reveal that barriers such as a shortage of skilled IT professionals and the complexity of managing multiple security vendors hinder effective cybersecurity. The report discusses the adoption of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), and Universal Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), as organizations seek to enhance their security posture. It also outlines the best practices of high-performing organizations that effectively manage cybersecurity threats. The report emphasizes the importance of collaboration between network and security teams, as well as the need for a defined cybersecurity compliance framework to secure hybrid cloud environments. Overall, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of IT security and the strategies organizations are implementing to mitigate risks.