As 2025 comes to a close, it is clear that the role of IT has continued to evolve at pace. What once felt like future planning has increasingly become day-to-day reality for many organisations.

This year brought major shifts across security, infrastructure, and ways of working. From AI becoming embedded in everyday operations to long-planned technology decisions finally reaching a deadline, businesses were required to adapt quickly and thoughtfully.

Here, we look back at the key IT topics that defined 2025 and the lessons worth carrying into the year ahead.

 

AI Moved From Experimentation to Everyday Use

In 2025, artificial intelligence stopped being something organisations experimented with on the side. Instead, it became part of routine IT operations.

AI is now being used across service desks, security monitoring, cloud management, and performance optimisation. These tools are helping teams respond faster, detect issues earlier, and manage increasingly complex environments.

At the same time, the year reinforced an important point. AI is only effective when the foundations beneath it are secure, scalable, and well managed. Without the right infrastructure and governance in place, AI can introduce as many risks as benefits.

Key takeaway: AI delivers real value when it is supported by strong systems, clear processes, and human oversight.

 

The End of Windows 10 Forced Long-Delayed Decisions

October 2025 marked the official end of support for Windows 10. For many organisations, this deadline highlighted just how quickly legacy systems can become a liability.

Without security updates or technical support, unsupported operating systems increase exposure to cyber threats, compliance issues, and software compatibility problems. For some, this meant accelerating upgrade plans. For others, it prompted wider conversations about device refresh cycles and long-term infrastructure strategy.

Key takeaway: End-of-support dates are not just IT milestones. They are business risk deadlines that require early planning.

 

The Largest Password Leak Changed the Security Conversation

One of the most significant security events of the year was the confirmation of the largest password leak in history, with billions of credentials exposed.

The scale and freshness of this breach made it clear that traditional password-only security is no longer sufficient. It accelerated the shift towards stronger authentication methods, including multi-factor authentication, identity and access management, and passkeys.

For many organisations, this was a turning point that moved password security from a best practice to a priority.

Key takeaway: Strong authentication is now a foundational requirement, not an optional extra.

 

IT Outsourcing Became a Strategic Choice

Throughout 2025, more organisations revisited how their IT is delivered and supported. Outsourcing was no longer viewed purely as a way to reduce costs.

Instead, businesses looked to managed IT partners to improve resilience, access specialist expertise, strengthen security, and scale support in line with growth. With internal teams under increasing pressure, outsourcing allowed organisations to focus their resources where they add the most value.

Key takeaway: The right IT partner enables flexibility, resilience, and long-term growth.

 

Office Moves Highlighted the Importance of Early IT Planning

Office relocations and expansions continued throughout the year, and many organisations were reminded that these projects are as much about technology as they are about physical space.

Connectivity, security, AV, and collaboration tools all need careful planning well before move-in dates. Those who involved IT early avoided disruption. Those who did not often faced delays, unexpected costs, and last-minute compromises.

Key takeaway: Successful office moves start with IT planning, not at the point of installation.

 

Remote and Distributed Teams Became the Norm

By 2025, remote and hybrid working models were no longer temporary arrangements. They are now a permanent part of how many organisations operate.

Managing teams across locations and time zones brought renewed focus on secure access, reliable connectivity, and responsive support. Businesses that invested in the right tools and support models were better positioned to maintain productivity and protect their data.

Key takeaway: Distributed teams work best when IT is designed to support them wherever they are.

 

Cyber Security Continued to Evolve

Cyber threats grew more sophisticated throughout the year. AI-powered ransomware, social engineering, and targeted phishing attacks placed greater emphasis on layered security approaches.

The most effective strategies combined technology, training, and clear processes. Organisations that invested in awareness, monitoring, and preparedness were better equipped to respond when incidents occurred.

Key takeaway: Cyber security works best when people, process, and technology are aligned.

 

Looking Ahead to 2026

The lessons from 2025 point to one clear conclusion. Standing still is no longer an option.

As organisations move into 2026, secure foundations, thoughtful planning, and dependable support will matter more than ever. Whether it is preparing for continued AI adoption, strengthening cyber security, supporting remote teams, or planning future office changes, having the right IT approach in place makes all the difference.

At One Thirty West, we work alongside organisations to help them plan, build, and support technology that fits the way they operate.

If you are thinking about what the year ahead looks like for your business, we are here to help.
Give us a shout. We are ready when you are.