End-user spending on information security is expected to surge to $213 billion globally in 2025, marking a sharp rise from $193 billion in 2024, according to Gartner’s latest projections. This momentum is set to continue in 2026, when spending is forecast to reach $240 billion. The findings underscore the growing urgency for organisations to defend against increasingly sophisticated threats in an AI-driven digital environment.
AI, GenAI, and cloud adoption drive growth
The rapid shift toward cloud-based systems and the adoption of generative AI are emerging as major drivers of cybersecurity investments. Organisations migrating from on-premise systems face new vulnerabilities, prompting increased adoption of tools such as cloud access security brokers and posture management solutions. Gartner highlighted these trends as top contributors to the rise in security software spending—the fastest growing segment in the market.
AI is now a double-edged sword. While it enhances threat detection and operational efficiency, it also amplifies attacker capabilities. Gartner expects that both internal use and external abuse of GenAI will continue to challenge traditional security frameworks, requiring higher investments across detection, response, and compliance functions.
| Market | 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 |
Indian market shows parallel momentum
In India, end-user security spending is expected to grow 12.8% in 2026, reaching $3.4 billion. This mirrors global patterns as Indian enterprises enhance their cyber maturity amid rising regulatory oversight and increased cloud adoption. Small and medium-sized businesses in particular are becoming more aware of the financial and reputational damage associated with breaches, prompting stronger investment in foundational controls.
Security spending remains resilient despite economic caution
Despite cautious spending on new initiatives in uncertain markets, Gartner notes that baseline cybersecurity budgets remain resilient. Defence budgets are growing and boards are pushing for greater cyber readiness, especially in the wake of recent high-profile breaches. With regulatory frameworks tightening and cyberattacks evolving rapidly, Gartner projects sustained growth in spending well into the next decade.
