Key Takeaways

• Anti-virus software is rapidly evolving with AI, machine learning, and real-time threat detection to combat advanced cyber threats.
• Global demand for cybersecurity solutions is rising, with significant growth in market size, user adoption, and enterprise investment.
• Staying updated on anti-virus trends helps individuals and businesses make informed decisions for stronger digital protection in 2025.

In today’s hyper-connected digital landscape, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated.

With the rapid growth of internet usage, cloud computing, remote work, and interconnected devices, cyber threats have become more sophisticated and widespread than ever before.

As a result, the demand for reliable anti-virus software continues to surge, making it a crucial line of defense against a wide array of malicious activities such as malware attacks, ransomware, phishing scams, spyware, and more.

Businesses, governments, and individuals alike are investing heavily in robust cybersecurity solutions to safeguard sensitive data, maintain privacy, and ensure operational continuity in the face of growing cyber risks.

The global anti-virus software market has evolved significantly over the past decade, moving beyond traditional signature-based detection methods to incorporate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, heuristic analysis, cloud-based threat intelligence, and behavioral detection.

These advancements are not only enhancing the efficacy of anti-virus programs but also enabling real-time protection against zero-day threats and emerging vulnerabilities.

The competition among top cybersecurity vendors has intensified, leading to continuous innovation and the introduction of more comprehensive and user-friendly security solutions for both consumers and enterprises.

Understanding the latest anti-virus software statistics, data, and trends is essential for IT professionals, cybersecurity experts, business leaders, and even everyday users who want to stay informed about the evolving threat landscape and the effectiveness of available defenses.

From market size and user adoption rates to detection capabilities and the economic impact of cyber attacks, up-to-date data helps in making informed decisions regarding security investments and best practices.

In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled the top 50 most recent and insightful anti-virus software statistics, data points, and trends from authoritative sources and industry reports.

Whether you are researching for academic purposes, considering new cybersecurity tools for your organization, or simply seeking to enhance your digital safety awareness, these statistics provide a deep dive into the current state of anti-virus software, the challenges it addresses, and the direction in which the industry is heading.

Explore the latest figures on anti-virus software market growth, user behavior, malware detection rates, cybercrime costs, and technological advancements shaping the future of cybersecurity.

These insights will not only highlight the critical role of anti-virus software in modern-day cyber defense strategies but also help you stay ahead in an era where digital threats are constantly evolving.

Let’s dive into the data and discover what the numbers reveal about the dynamic world of anti-virus software in 2025.

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Top 50 Latest Anti-Virus Software Statistics, Data & Trends

1. Antivirus Software Market Size in 2024: The global antivirus software market is projected to reach a significant size of approximately $4.13 billion by the end of 2024, reflecting a growing demand for cybersecurity solutions.
2. Antivirus Software Market Size in 2025: In 2025, the antivirus software market is expected to expand further, reaching a market size of about $4.23 billion, driven by increasing threats from malware and cyberattacks.
3. CAGR for Antivirus Software Market (2025-2034): Over the period from 2025 to 2034, the antivirus software market is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.4%, indicating steady expansion in the cybersecurity sector.
4. PC Antivirus Software Market Size in 2025: The PC antivirus software market is projected to achieve a substantial market size of $2,896.3 million by 2025, highlighting the ongoing reliance on desktop computers for both personal and professional use.
5. Projected PC Antivirus Software Market Size by 2033: By 2033, the PC antivirus software market is expected to reach a projected size of $3,252.5 million, reflecting continued demand for robust security solutions on personal computers.
6. CAGR for PC Antivirus Software Market (2025-2033): From 2025 to 2033, the PC antivirus software market is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 1.6%, demonstrating a steady but moderate pace of growth in the sector.
7. Antivirus Software Package Market Size in 2024: In 2024, the antivirus software package market is estimated to be valued at approximately $4.33 billion, underscoring the importance of comprehensive security packages for consumers and businesses.
8. Projected Antivirus Software Package Market Size by 2033: By 2033, the antivirus software package market is projected to expand to about $5.6 billion, driven by the increasing need for integrated cybersecurity solutions.
9. CAGR for Antivirus Software Package Market (2025-2033): Over the period from 2025 to 2033, the antivirus software package market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8%, indicating a robust expansion in demand for bundled security services.
10. North America’s Share in Antivirus Software Package Market (2024): In 2024, North America is expected to hold a significant share of over 48.0% in the antivirus software package market, reflecting the region’s strong demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions.
11. Antivirus Software Market Size in 2024: The antivirus software market is projected to exceed $4.9 billion in 2024, highlighting the substantial investment in cybersecurity measures globally.
12. Projected Antivirus Software Market Size by 2037: By 2037, the antivirus software market is forecasted to reach a remarkable size of $11.8 billion, driven by escalating cyber threats and the need for robust security solutions.
13. CAGR for Antivirus Software Market (2025-2037): From 2025 to 2037, the antivirus software market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.6%, indicating a rapid expansion in the sector due to increasing cybersecurity concerns.
14. Number of Americans Using Third-Party Antivirus Programs: Approximately 121 million Americans rely on third-party antivirus programs, demonstrating a widespread preference for additional security measures beyond built-in solutions.
15. Potential New Users of Antivirus Software in the Next Six Months: Over the next six months, there are potentially 17 million new users expected to adopt antivirus software, reflecting growing awareness of cybersecurity threats.
16. Percentage of Adults Running Antivirus Programs on Mobile Phones: Only about 17% of adults use antivirus programs on their mobile phones, highlighting a gap in mobile device security practices.
17. Percentage of Adults Aged 65+ Paying for Antivirus Programs: Adults aged 65 and above are twice as likely to pay for antivirus programs compared to those under 45, indicating a higher willingness to invest in security among older demographics.
18. Norton’s Share Among Paid Antivirus Users: Norton holds a significant share of about 29% among paid antivirus users, reflecting its popularity and trustworthiness in the market.
19. McAfee’s Share Among Free Antivirus Users: McAfee accounts for approximately 19% of free antivirus users, demonstrating its widespread adoption among those seeking cost-effective security solutions.
20. Malwarebytes’ Share Among Paid Antivirus Users: Malwarebytes captures around 10% of the paid antivirus user base, highlighting its niche but dedicated customer segment.
21. Avast’s Share Among Free Antivirus Users: Avast is used by about 18% of free antivirus users, showcasing its popularity as a free security solution.
22. AVG’s Share Among Paid Antivirus Users: AVG holds a share of approximately 7% among paid antivirus users, indicating a smaller but still significant presence in the market.
23. Webroot’s Share Among Paid Antivirus Users: Webroot accounts for around 6% of paid antivirus users, reflecting its specialized offerings in the cybersecurity space.
24. Bitdefender’s Share Among Paid Antivirus Users: Bitdefender also holds about 6% of the paid antivirus user market, demonstrating its strong reputation for security performance.
25. Kaspersky’s Share Among Paid Antivirus Users: Kaspersky captures a share of approximately 4% among paid antivirus users, highlighting its dedicated customer base despite geopolitical challenges.
26. Number of New Malware Detected Daily: On average, about 560,000 new malware are detected daily, underscoring the relentless pace of cyber threats and the need for continuous security updates.
27. Total Number of Malware Programs: There are over 1 billion known malware programs, illustrating the vast scope of cybersecurity challenges faced by individuals and organizations.
28. Percentage of Computer Malware That Are Trojans: Trojans account for about 58% of computer malware, highlighting their prevalence as a common type of cyber threat.
29. Frequency of Ransomware Attacks: Ransomware attacks occur at a staggering rate of four companies per minute, emphasizing the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.
30. Infection Rate of Malware on Computers in China: In China, nearly every second computer is infected with malware, reflecting significant cybersecurity challenges in the region.
31. Mobile Malware Infection Rate in Iran: Iran has a notably high mobile malware infection rate of 30.3%, indicating substantial risks for mobile device users in the country.
32. Likelihood of Android Devices Being Infected with Malware Compared to iOS Devices: Android devices are about 50 times more likely to be infected with malware compared to iOS devices, highlighting differences in mobile operating system security.
33. Increase in Malware Infections Over the Past Decade: Over the past decade, malware infections have increased by 87%, demonstrating a significant escalation in cyber threats.
34. Projected Cost of Cybercrime by 2023: Cybercrime is projected to cost approximately $8 trillion by 2023, underscoring the immense financial impact of cyber threats on global economies.
35. Percentage of Code Bases with Open-Source Vulnerabilities: A staggering 84% of code bases contain open-source vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for secure coding practices and vulnerability management.
36. Antivirus Software Market Size in 2025 (Alternative Estimate): Another estimate suggests that the antivirus software market will reach about $4.23 billion in 2025, aligning with forecasts of steady growth in the sector.
37. Projected Antivirus Software Market Size by 2029: By 2029, the antivirus software market is expected to expand to approximately $5.52 billion, driven by evolving cybersecurity demands.
38. CAGR for Antivirus Software Market (2025-2029): From 2025 to 2029, the antivirus software market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9%, indicating a robust expansion in response to increasing cyber threats.
39. Number of Cybercrime Reports Received by ACSC in 2021-22: The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) received over 76,000 cybercrime reports in the 2021-22 period, highlighting the prevalence of cyber incidents.
40. Increase in Cybercrime Reports from 2020-21 to 2021-22: There was a 13% increase in cybercrime reports from 2020-21 to 2021-22, reflecting a rising trend in cyber threats.
41. Projected Number of IoT Devices by the End of 2025: By the end of 2025, there are expected to be over 75 billion IoT devices, creating a vast potential attack surface for cyber threats.
42. Cybercrime Costs in the U.S. in the Previous Year: In the previous year, cybercrime costs in the U.S. were reported to be approximately $12.5 billion, emphasizing the significant financial impact of cybercrime.
43. Average Cost of a Ransomware Attack: The average cost of a ransomware attack is about $4.54 million, highlighting the severe financial consequences of such incidents.
44. Number of Ransomware Attacks in the First Half of 2022: In the first half of 2022, there were 236.7 million ransomware attacks, demonstrating the relentless pace of these threats.
45. Percentage of Americans Using Built-in Antivirus Protection or None: Over half of Americans rely on built-in antivirus protection or use no antivirus software at all, indicating a gap in security practices.
46. Number of Americans Planning to Adopt Antivirus Software in the Next Six Months: Approximately 17 million Americans plan to adopt antivirus software over the next six months, reflecting growing awareness of cybersecurity needs.
47. Growth in Antivirus Users Over the Next Six Months: The number of antivirus users is expected to grow by about 14% over the next six months, highlighting an increasing demand for security solutions.
48. Percentage of U.S. Adults Using Third-Party Antivirus Software: Nearly half of U.S. adults use third-party antivirus software, demonstrating a preference for additional security measures beyond built-in solutions.
49. Year G Data Released Its First Antivirus Program: G Data released its first antivirus program in 1985, marking an early milestone in the development of antivirus software.
50. Number of Americans Using Norton Antivirus: Norton antivirus is used by about 29% of paid antivirus users in the U.S., reflecting its strong market presence and customer loyalty.

Conclusion

As cyber threats continue to escalate in frequency, complexity, and impact, the need for reliable and effective anti-virus software has become more critical than ever. The statistics, data, and trends presented in this comprehensive analysis underscore the urgency for individuals, businesses, and governments to remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity strategies. From the alarming rise in ransomware attacks and phishing campaigns to the growing adoption of AI-powered threat detection, these insights provide a clear picture of the current state of digital security and where it is headed.

One of the most compelling takeaways from these anti-virus software statistics is the rapid pace at which cyber threats are evolving. Cybercriminals are constantly refining their tactics, leveraging new technologies, and exploiting vulnerabilities, making traditional security measures insufficient. In response, the anti-virus software industry is undergoing a transformative shift, incorporating advanced features such as real-time behavioral analysis, cloud-based threat intelligence, and machine learning algorithms to stay ahead of these threats. This evolution is not just a trend; it is a necessity in an era where the consequences of a single breach can be devastating.

Moreover, the data highlights a significant increase in user awareness and investment in cybersecurity solutions. Whether it’s individuals seeking to protect personal data or enterprises implementing multi-layered defense systems, there is a growing recognition that anti-virus software is a foundational element of a comprehensive cybersecurity framework. With cybercrime damages projected to reach trillions of dollars annually, the importance of staying informed about the latest developments in anti-virus technology cannot be overstated.

For businesses, staying updated on anti-virus software trends can inform better decision-making when it comes to selecting security vendors, allocating IT budgets, and training staff on best practices. For consumers, understanding detection rates, pricing models, and software performance metrics helps in choosing the most suitable protection for personal devices and networks. In both cases, knowledge is power—armed with the right data, users can better anticipate risks and mitigate potential threats before they cause harm.

Looking ahead, the future of anti-virus software will likely involve deeper integration with other cybersecurity tools, increased automation, and more personalized protection powered by big data and predictive analytics. As remote work and digital transformation continue to shape the modern world, anti-virus solutions will play an even more vital role in ensuring secure and resilient digital environments.

In conclusion, the top 50 latest anti-virus software statistics, data, and trends serve as a valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities within the cybersecurity landscape. By leveraging this information, users and organizations can not only enhance their current security posture but also prepare for the emerging threats of tomorrow. Staying informed, adopting cutting-edge technologies, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness are essential steps in navigating the ever-changing digital threat landscape effectively.

As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the commitment to robust anti-virus protection and informed cybersecurity practices will remain a key determinant of digital safety and resilience in 2025 and beyond.

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People Also Ask

What is the current global market size of anti-virus software?

The global anti-virus software market is valued at over $4 billion in 2025, with continued growth driven by increasing cyber threats and digital transformation.

How many cyber attacks are blocked by anti-virus software annually?

Anti-virus software blocks billions of cyber threats annually, with some major vendors reporting over 5 billion threats neutralized in a single year.

What percentage of internet users use anti-virus software?

Approximately 78% of internet users have some form of anti-virus software installed on their devices to safeguard against malware and cyber attacks.

Which is the most widely used anti-virus software in 2025?

As of 2025, Windows Defender leads in user adoption globally, followed by Avast, Norton, and McAfee in both personal and enterprise use.

What role does AI play in modern anti-virus software?

AI enhances threat detection by analyzing patterns, predicting attacks, and enabling real-time responses to zero-day threats.

How effective is anti-virus software against ransomware?

Modern anti-virus software can detect and block up to 95% of known ransomware attacks, though constant updates are required for new variants.

What is the average cost of anti-virus software for personal use?

Personal anti-virus software costs range from $20 to $60 annually, depending on features, device coverage, and vendor reputation.

How often should anti-virus software be updated?

Anti-virus software should be updated daily or automatically to ensure protection against the latest threats and vulnerabilities.

What is the trend in mobile anti-virus software usage?

Mobile anti-virus usage is increasing, with over 40% of smartphone users now using mobile security apps to prevent malware and data breaches.

How has remote work impacted anti-virus software demand?

Remote work has driven a surge in demand for anti-virus software as organizations seek to protect remote endpoints and sensitive data.

What percentage of cyber attacks target small businesses?

Nearly 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses, highlighting the need for strong anti-virus solutions in smaller organizations.

Is free anti-virus software effective?

Free anti-virus software offers basic protection but lacks advanced features found in paid versions, such as real-time monitoring and ransomware defense.

How many malware variants are detected monthly?

Cybersecurity firms detect over 10 million new malware variants monthly, emphasizing the need for robust and updated anti-virus protection.

What is heuristic analysis in anti-virus software?

Heuristic analysis helps anti-virus software detect unknown threats by analyzing code behavior and identifying suspicious activity.

Which industries invest the most in anti-virus software?

Healthcare, finance, and government sectors are the top investors in anti-virus software due to high data sensitivity and regulatory requirements.

Can anti-virus software protect against phishing attacks?

Many anti-virus solutions offer phishing protection through browser extensions and email scanning, reducing the risk of credential theft.

What is cloud-based anti-virus software?

Cloud-based anti-virus software uses online threat databases and real-time scanning to provide faster, more efficient protection.

Are anti-virus subscriptions increasing yearly?

Yes, anti-virus subscriptions are growing steadily, with a 10% annual increase in consumer and enterprise subscription rates.

Do anti-virus tools slow down computers?

Modern anti-virus software is optimized for performance, though older systems may experience slight slowdowns during full scans.

What is the average malware infection rate globally?

The average global malware infection rate stands at around 30%, varying by region, device type, and user security practices.

How much do businesses lose to cyber attacks annually?

Global businesses lose over $6 trillion annually due to cyber attacks, making investment in anti-virus software crucial.

Can anti-virus software detect spyware?

Yes, most anti-virus programs can detect and remove spyware, protecting user privacy and preventing data theft.

How do anti-virus vendors stay ahead of threats?

Vendors use threat intelligence, AI, and global monitoring networks to identify and respond to emerging threats in real time.

Is anti-virus software necessary for macOS users?

Yes, macOS is not immune to malware, and anti-virus software adds an extra layer of protection against evolving threats.

How many devices can anti-virus software cover?

Most plans cover 1–5 devices, with premium options supporting up to 10 or more across PCs, smartphones, and tablets.

What is a zero-day threat?

A zero-day threat is a newly discovered vulnerability exploited by attackers before developers have issued a security patch.

Does anti-virus software offer parental controls?

Many anti-virus programs include parental controls, allowing content filtering, screen time limits, and activity monitoring.

How are anti-virus software updates delivered?

Updates are typically delivered automatically over the internet, ensuring users receive the latest virus definitions and patches.

What is endpoint protection in anti-virus software?

Endpoint protection secures devices like laptops and smartphones from threats, often including firewall, anti-malware, and encryption tools.

What is the future of anti-virus software?

The future involves AI-driven, cloud-based solutions with enhanced threat intelligence, offering faster, more adaptive security.

Sources:

1. The Business Research Company
2. Data Insights Market
3. IMARC Group
4. Research Nester
5. Security.org
6. PCMag
7. Astra Security
8. Research and Markets