CTERA's 2025 Survey Shows AI Adoption and Cybersecurity Trends
CTERA Reveals Critical Insights from 2025 Survey
In an insightful report, CTERA showcases findings from its 2025 State of Data and Cloud Strategy Survey. The study reflects the prominent issues facing IT and cybersecurity leaders today, particularly the growing emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) as an essential tool for organizations.
Shifting Priorities in IT and Cybersecurity
Among the surveyed leaders, 57% indicated a strong focus on integrating AI into their strategies for 2025. This enthusiasm for AI must compete with pressing concerns surrounding cybersecurity, which tops the priority list at 80%, and cost optimization efforts, acknowledged by 61% of respondents.
The Widespread Impact of Ransomware
The survey uncovers alarming statistics regarding ransomware attacks. Every organization that participated in the survey reported experiencing such an attack within the past two years. Notably, 17% of respondents indicated they faced at least some level of permanent data loss, which raises significant concerns about organizational preparedness. This reality emphasizes the necessity for advanced strategies to enhance data recovery capabilities post-attack.
AI Adoption: In The Early Stages
While AI is prominently featured as a strategic objective, its deployment is still in its infancy. Approximately 70% of IT and security leaders noted they are only partially implementing AI-based solutions. Furthermore, 27% are currently piloting these technologies, indicating a cautious yet determined approach towards AI integration.
Challenges and Opportunities in AI Implementation
Despite the eagerness to adopt AI tools, many organizations face challenges. Frequent pushes from investors to enhance customer experience—64%, improve predictive intelligence—64%, and vary query accuracy—53%, highlight the ongoing pressure for progress. However, only 10% are actively addressing skill gaps, creating a disconnect between aspirations and capabilities.
Compliance and Security Concerns
As companies explore AI deployment, compliance and regulatory challenges emerge as significant obstacles. About 67% of leaders cited these concerns as the biggest hurdle, while 57% worry about security risks, including data exposure and misuse. Additional barriers include data silos limiting AI access—45% and the overall cost of implementation and maintenance—44%.
Cloud Strategies on the Rise
The survey also revealed a clear preference for cloud-first strategies among IT and security leaders, with 61% prioritizing cloud solutions over traditional private data centers. A disparity in perspective was noted, as only 26% of C-level executives expressed strong prioritization toward cloud technologies compared to merely 11% of VPs and 9% of Directors.
An Evolving Landscape of IT Priorities
Cheryle Cushion, SVP of Marketing at CTERA, stated, “Enterprises are navigating an evolving landscape of IT priorities, trying to balance immediate cybersecurity needs with forward-thinking AI strategies.” CTERA offers an Intelligent Data Platform designed to foster robust ransomware resilience and smooth cloud migration, addressing both strategic and operational needs.
Survey Methodology
The insights presented in this report stem from a survey of 300 senior IT and security leaders located across diverse regions, including the USA, EMEA, and APAC. All respondents were part of organizations housing over 2,500 employees, ensuring that the findings reflect the priorities of larger, equipped organizations.
Furthermore, participants in the survey possessed a minimum of 100TB of file storage and operated at least five separate locations, showcasing a broad interest in solutions such as Enterprise File Sync and Share (EFSS) options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main findings of the CTERA 2025 survey?
The survey highlighted the growing emphasis on AI, with 57% of leaders prioritizing it, while cybersecurity remains paramount at 80%.
What challenges do organizations face in implementing AI?
Key challenges include compliance concerns, security risks, data silos, and the cost of implementation, which are cited by the leaders surveyed.
How many organizations reported ransomware attacks?
All organizations surveyed reported experiencing ransomware attacks within the last two years, underscoring widespread vulnerability.
What percentage of IT leaders prioritize cloud solutions?
61% of IT and security leaders indicated a preference for cloud technologies over private data storage options.
How does CTERA support organizations in this landscape?
CTERA provides solutions that enhance ransomware resilience and streamline cloud storage deployment, helping organizations manage their data more effectively.
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