This IDC study provides an analysis and sizing of the Western European security software market for 2009 to 2011, and a forecast for 2012–2016. The study segments the security software market by functional market (four functional markets), company size band (1–99 employees, 100–499 employees, 500–999 employees, and 1,000 employees or more, government, education), and by Western European country.

"A flat 0.4% constant currency growth rate in 2011 for Western Europe recognizes the economic challenges and IT budget controls being experienced in the region. Security software is seen as the number 2 priority for organizations in 2012, with a market forecast to grow by 5% and attracting almost $5.5 billion in revenue. The gradual adoption of cloud security services outside of the messaging SaaS market and increased mobile working practices are blurring the traditional lines of the security network, providing opportunities for vendors to provide wider security solutions and advanced authentication technologies for all vertical and segment markets. Cybercriminals do not discriminate, they target everyone. Organizations should encourage proactive security measures that will guard against financial, reputational, and personnel security attacks, while providing a secure business with growth opportunities," said Kevin Bailey, research director, IDC Security Software.