Security Survey 2026: How Users Worldwide Choose Antivirus Software and Assess Cyber Threats
Key Highlights
- The Security Survey 2026 is based on insights from 1,328 respondents across 87 countries, offering a broad view of global cybersecurity behavior and perceptions.
- Bitdefender, Kaspersky, and ESET rank among the most widely used desktop security solutions, with Microsoft security products also playing a major role.
- Linux usage has grown to match macOS within the survey population, signaling increased acceptance of Linux as a mainstream desktop platform among security-aware users.
AV-Comparatives has announced the release of its Security Survey 2026, a comprehensive global study examining user behavior, technology adoption, and perceptions of cyber threats. Based on responses from 1,328 participants across 87 countries, the survey delivers a data-driven snapshot of how individuals and organizations approach digital protection amid an evolving threat landscape.
Established Vendors Continue to Dominate Desktop Security
One of the survey’s key findings is the continued reliance on a small group of well-established desktop security vendors. A clear majority of respondents report using commercial or paid security solutions, underscoring a sustained preference for comprehensive protection over free alternatives.
Among the most widely used desktop security products are Bitdefender, Kaspersky, and ESET, with Microsoft’s security solutions also playing a significant role. These results highlight the importance of trust, brand recognition, and proven testing performance in user decision-making, while also revealing notable regional differences in vendor adoption.
Operating Systems and Platform Usage Trends
The survey points to ongoing shifts in operating system usage. Windows 11 has emerged as the most widely used desktop operating system among respondents, reflecting continued migration away from older and unsupported Windows versions.
At the same time, Linux usage has reached levels comparable to macOS within the survey population, indicating growing acceptance of Linux as a viable desktop platform among security-conscious users.
On mobile devices, Android maintains its global dominance, while iOS continues to attract a strong and loyal user base, particularly among professionals and advanced users.
Perceived Origins of Cyber Threats
Beyond technology adoption, the Security Survey 2026 offers insight into how users perceive global cyber risks. When asked which countries they most associate with cyberattacks, respondents most frequently cited Russia and China, followed by the United States and North Korea.
In addition, a significant portion of participants expressed concern about domestic surveillance and internal threats originating within their own countries, highlighting growing awareness of both external and internal cybersecurity risks.
Actionable Insights for the Security Community
While not intended to represent the global population as a whole, the survey provides valuable insights for cybersecurity professionals, vendors, researchers, and policymakers. Trends such as the sustained preference for commercial security solutions, the dominance of Windows 11, the increasing relevance of Linux, and evolving perceptions of state-sponsored threats offer meaningful context for strategic planning and future research.
Source: AV-Comparatives
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