From predictive systems to the recent proliferation of generative AI-based virtual assistants such as ChatGPT, artificial intelligence has become a key driver in many sectors, and cybersecurity is no exception. The disruptive impact of GenAI has popularized AI use recently but this technology has actually been deployed for over 20 years in the security sector, serving as an additional and critical tool for proactive threat management that enhances operational efficiency.

Enterprises today are facing a complex working environment, where digitalization is advancing by leaps and bounds and technological tools are multiplying. This change has brought with it a key challenge: protecting and managing access to sensitive data. IT teams are overloaded with password-related tickets, while employees are dealing with multiple credential-management fatigue, a problem that affects both productivity and security.

WatchGuard acquired ActZero, a leading provider of MDR services with proactive, rapid and automated threat response and cross-platform AI-driven threat analysis designed to outpace threats at machine speed. This move further expands and matures WatchGuard’s innovative 24/7 MDR service and was signed and closed on December 17, 2024.

Cybersecurity involves anticipating threats and designing adaptive strategies in a constantly changing environment. In 2024, organizations faced complex challenges due to technological advances and sophisticated threats, requiring them to constantly review their approach. For 2025, it is crucial to identify key factors that will enable organizations to strengthen their defenses and consolidate their resilience in the face of a dynamic and risk-filled digital landscape.

EDR protects organizations' endpoints and surpasses the capabilities of traditional antivirus solutions focused solely on preventing known attacks. Its main strength is detecting and responding to advanced threats that have evaded previous security controls.

MSPs and IT organizations run lean and can’t afford to waste time sifting through false positives and dealing with operational inefficiencies. This is why we are pleased with our results of 2024 MITRE ATT&CK Enterprise Evaluation, which included a new element this year to test a vendor’s ability to deal with “Noise” and distinguish between benign and malicious actions.

Digital expansion, remote work, and the proliferation of connected devices have extended the attack surface, making organizations attractive targets for cybercriminals. Although many businesses believe they are too small to be attacked, hackers often use them as a testing ground to hone their techniques before taking aim at larger, more lucrative targets.

Over the past decade, Detection and Response (DR) solutions have advanced substantially to address the constantly evolving sophistication of cyberattacks. Malicious actors have perfected techniques to evade traditional defenses, making detection and response solutions key requisites in a robust cybersecurity strategy.