In the framework of International Computer Security Day, a notable shift in user preferences towards cybersecurity tools that offer more than traditional antivirus protection has been observed. According to a recent report from Softonic.com, Hamachi has led this year as the most downloaded security software of 2024, reaching over 748,102 downloads and showing a 7.9% growth compared to 2023.
This phenomenon reflects a trend towards applications that not only guarantee security, but also privacy and optimal performance. Softonic’s list, a major global distributor of secure software, highlights that seven of the top ten cybersecurity applications of the year belong to the VPN category. These tools have seen a significant increase in regions such as Russia, Ukraine, and South Korea, where the demand for security and reliable internet access has been growing.
Hamachi has positioned itself at the forefront of this change, thanks to its ability to create virtual private networks that simulate LAN connectivity, making it ideal for remote work teams, gamers, and users seeking reliable remote access. Accompanying this rise, the newcomer WARP has debuted strongly, ranking second due to its innovative features focused on privacy and internet performance improvement.
Contrarily, Psiphon has experienced a significant decrease in downloads, possibly due to the emergence of more advanced technologies. The market has also witnessed the entry of new applications such as Secure VPN Safer Faster Internet and Planet VPN Fast Secure VPN, which have achieved relevant positions, indicating increasing competition and demand.
Despite the rise of VPNs, antivirus solutions still maintain their importance. Although Avast Free Antivirus has fallen in the rankings compared to more privacy-focused tools, it continues to be widely downloaded, showing that device security remains fundamental for many users.
In the realm of specialized applications, Sandboxie and FortiClient have seen a notable increase in downloads, consolidating their positions in the top 10. Sandboxie is valued for its ability to allow tests in a secure and isolated environment, while FortiClient remains a popular choice for network protection, especially in enterprise environments.
According to Ferran Gavin, Director of Catalog and Traffic at Softonic, these download trends reflect a growing priority on privacy and secure access. In an increasingly aware world of the importance of protecting personal data, users seek tools that not only secure their information, but also facilitate connection and offer an unbeatable user experience.
The observed trends suggest a transition from traditional antivirus to more versatile and privacy-focused solutions, reaffirming Softonic’s role in guiding users towards tools that best fit this changing cybersecurity landscape.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
