AI-driven threats and growing cloud adoption push security spending to new heights worldwide including India.
In a rapidly evolving digital world, cybersecurity has taken center stage. According to new projections by research firm Gartner, global end-user spending on information security is set to hit $213 billion in 2025, a sharp rise from $193 billion in 2024. And the trend shows no signs of slowing by 2026, spending is expected to surge another 12.5%, reaching $240 billion.
India too is following this global shift. The country’s end-user security spending is projected to reach $3.4 billion in 2026, marking a 12.8% increase from the previous year.
So, what’s driving this surge?
According to Ruggero Contu, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, while many organizations are still cautious with new investments due to the uncertain climate, rising cyber threats, increased regulatory scrutiny, and greater awareness among SMBs are fueling continued investment in cybersecurity.
“Spending on security remains strong, thanks to growing awareness, increasing threats, and the rise of defense budgets,” Contu said.
Key Growth Areas:
Security Software is the fastest-growing segment, as businesses move from traditional on-premises setups to cloud-based infrastructures. This transition brings new security challenges, pushing demand for solutions like:
Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM)
Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB)
AI and GenAI (Generative AI) are now being used by both defenders and attackers, adding complexity and urgency to security strategies. These technologies are expected to remain critical growth drivers in the coming years.
By the Numbers (Worldwide Spending in $ Millions):
By the Numbers (Worldwide Spending in $ Millions):
| Segment | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
| Network Security | 21,317 | 23,273 | 25,825 |
| Security Services | 77,130 | 83,812 | 92,780 |
| Security Software | 94,960 | 105,940 | 121,154 |
| Total | 193,408 | 213,025 | 239,759 |
The findings are part of Gartner’s report, Forecast: Information Security, Worldwide, 2023–2029. These insights will be further discussed at the Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo, where CIOs and tech leaders will dive into the future of cybersecurity, digital transformation, and the role of AI.
As the digital battlefield evolves, so must the defenses and the world is investing accordingly.