The Akamai Defenders’ Guide 2025 combines detailed research with actionable insights, addressing critical issues such as risk scoring, VPN abuse, and advanced malware techniques. Boaz Gelbord, senior vice president and chief security officer at Akamai, emphasised the necessity of integrating research into cybersecurity strategies: “Leveraging leading-edge technical analyses of attacks enables organisations to mitigate risk within an increasingly complex digital landscape.” This perspective is crucial for CISOs, who must navigate myriad threats while optimising security investments.
The Defenders’ Guide offers practical intelligence tailored to front-line defenders. Mitch Mayne, head of Cybersecurity Research at Akamai, remarked, “What’s equally important is an annual report for first-line defenders. The Guide consolidates new findings and best practices to stay ahead of emerging threats.” This focus on actionable intelligence empowers security teams to allocate their limited resources effectively, a necessity in the current climate of heightened cyber risk.
Key highlights from the report include:
- Risk Management: A novel risk scoring model quantifies vulnerabilities by assessing application importance and network complexity. Recommendations for endpoint impact analysis and segmentation strategies can enhance organisational resilience.
- Malware Metamorphosis: Insights into sophisticated botnet families, such as NoaBot and RedTail, underscore the importance of proactive measures like patch management and employee training.
- Network Architecture: Research reveals vulnerabilities in VPN appliances exploited by advanced threat actors. Solutions such as adopting secure LDAP protocols and conducting regular firmware updates are essential for maintaining robust security.
- Host Security: The report analyses Kubernetes vulnerabilities and highlights the risks of command injection attacks, advocating for proactive patching and vigilance in containerised environments.
