Several key trends from the data economy to security and sustainability are impacting businesses in 2025. AI continues to play a central role in technologies that will revolutionise business this year – from the use of Agentic AI (autonomous AI) to using AI in tackling an increasing number of sophisticated cyber-attacks.
Many of these trends are not only driving innovation but also redefining how businesses operate and interact with their environments. Here is a a look at the top three trends we see dominating the telecommunications industry and Irish businesses this year.
1. The Data Economy: Fuelled by AI, Analytics, and Big Data
The data economy continues its explosive growth, driven by the increasing volume of digital interactions. The global volume of data created, captured, copied and consumed is projected to reach 181 zettabytes by the end of 2025, according to Statista. The value of data is more significant than ever, acting as a catalyst for innovation across industries. The adoption of enterprise AI models is on the rise, leveraging vast amounts of data to deliver insights and drive decision-making.
As data creation accelerates, so does the need for high-capacity, resilient computing and connectivity. While Quantum Computing is set to revolutionise industries by solving complex problems much faster than classical computers, Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) is becoming a critical component in global connectivity. As more data is created more is also shared, and there is a need for scalable, high capacity, secure and resilient connectivity.
NaaS also addresses the demands of data sovereignty, residency, and regulatory compliance, such as local data protection laws and the GDPR. This trend underscores the importance of local data residency with secure, global connectivity to support uninterrupted access and demanding AI workloads. Transparency and adherence to local data laws and regulations helps businesses build customer trust and loyalty.
BT’s Network as a Service platform Global Fabric simplifies multi-cloud connectivity, allowing Irish multinational businesses to seamlessly connect to various cloud services and data centres. This enhanced connectivity and flexibility is essential for managing the increasing volume of data interactions and ensuring high-capacity, resilient computing. By integrating AIOps, Global Fabric provides a robust, intelligent, and adaptive network solution that meets the needs of modern businesses.
2. Security: Proactive Management and Cyber Agility
The sophistication and scale of cyber-attacks are growing, making security a top priority for businesses in 2025. The evolving geopolitical landscape is influencing cybersecurity strategies, with an increased focus on protecting critical infrastructure. Cyber agility, which involves proactive management of cyber risks, is essential for leveraging security as a platform for business growth. Companies must stay ahead of threats by adopting new technologies and scalable, secure data management practices.
AI plays a crucial role in this landscape, helping organisations detect and respond to threats more effectively. However, the reliance on AI also introduces new challenges, requiring robust cybersecurity measures. These include proactive risk management, leveraging secure IT ecosystems and regularly updating security measures to address new and evolving threats. Awareness remains a focal point, with ongoing training to ensure that employees are equipped to handle potential cyber threats.
Compliance with regulations such as NIS2, DORA and the EU AI Act is paramount for businesses in Ireland, placing a strong emphasis on strict security, privacy, and AI policies for both companies and their customers.
BT logs 200 million potential cyberattacks daily and uses AI to detect and respond to threats more effectively. BT's approach to cyber agility involves investing in cutting-edge security solutions, training employees, and integrating security strategies into enterprise-level business plans.
3. Sustainability: Integrating ESG into Business Operations
Sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a core component of business strategy in 2025. The key focus areas include use of renewable energy, circular economy and carbon neutrality, while biodiversity and sustainable finance (investing) are also big trends in sustainability.
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in the EU is driving greater demand for supply chain transparency on all aspects of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. Companies are operationalising sustainability by integrating it into their core operations, ensuring that their practices align with broader environmental and social goals.
There is a growing emphasis on reducing the environmental impact of technology, and AI, while presenting sustainability challenges, also offers solutions. It helps companies understand and manage their carbon footprint, optimising operations to reduce environmental impact. The dual role of AI in both creating and mitigating sustainability challenges highlights the need for a balanced approach to technology adoption.
Recognised recently as a Market Challenger by the ISG Provider Lens – Sustainability and ESG services report, BT's sustainable network design and refresh services help customers adapt their network architecture to handle the unique demands of AI. This includes optimising network design, capacity, and management to ensure efficient energy use and reduction of carbon footprints.
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Conclusion
The trends of 2025 highlight the interconnected nature of data, security, and sustainability. As businesses navigate this evolving landscape, they must embrace innovation while ensuring compliance, security, and environmental responsibility.
By staying ahead of these trends, Irish companies can position themselves for success in a rapidly changing world. Access to advanced, global network services can also enhance the competitiveness of Irish businesses in the global marketplace and equip them for ongoing digital transformation, supporting sustained growth and innovation for years to come.