Security should remain a "priority" at least until 2016 according to Gartner, despite the global economic slowdown-- leading WW security spending to reach $60 billion in 2012 before growing to $86bn by 2016. 

Global spending for 2011 totals $55bn. 

The security infrastructure Gartner covers includes software, services and network security appliance for use in both enterprise and consumer segments. 

"The security infrastructure market is expected to experience positive growth over the forecast period, despite risks of further economic turbulence," Gartner claims. 

The global 2012 Gartner CIO survey shows "increased prioritisation" for security-- 45% of respondents expect security budget increase, 50% expect budgets to remain the same and only 5% expect budget cuts.

The analyst says IT outsourcing (managed security services), secure web gateway (appliance) and security information and event management (SEIM) are the fastest growing security segments. Cloud-based security should also show above-average growth.

What are the drivers for security products and services? The threat landscape remains persistent, with increasingly targeted and sophisticated attack patterns.  Within such an environment organisation should continue seeking expertise and help from security providers. 

Go Gartner Says WW Security Infrastructure Market Will Grow 8.4%