The global critical infrastructure protection market is projected to grow from $160.28 billion in 2026 to $206.31 billion by 2031, representing a 5.2% compound annual growth rate, according to MarketsandMarkets. The market was valued at $153.87 billion in 2025. Growth is being driven by rising cyber and physical threats, expanding IT/OT connectivity, digitalized transport systems and the need for operational resilience and continuity. Physical security is expected to hold the largest offering share in 2026, while IT cybersecurity solutions are projected to post the fastest growth. Within OT cybersecurity, services are forecast to grow at a 4.8% CAGR, and telecom is expected to be the fastest-growing vertical at 7.4%. North America held the largest 2026 share at 37.12%, while the Middle East and Africa are expected to record the highest growth rate. The commercial sector is projected to account for the largest vertical share. Investment and consolidation are increasing across physical, IT and OT security, including funding for Claroty, Coram AI and Frenos and transactions involving ServiceNow, Armis, Dragos, Phosphorus, Accenture, runZero and NetRise.