CNET has opened its People’s Pick survey, giving readers a direct role in identifying the most trusted antivirus, VPN, and security tools for 2026. The survey, announced on November 6, 2026, asks users to evaluate the security software they rely on daily—whether a free built-in option or a paid full-suite subscription.
The initiative is part of CNET’s broader effort to capture real-world experiences with cybersecurity products. Rather than relying solely on lab tests or expert reviews, the publication wants to know how these tools perform in everyday use: Do they catch threats effectively without dragging down device speed? Have they become indispensable?
What the Survey Covers
Participants are asked to rate their security software on several dimensions, including threat protection, ease of use, impact on device performance, value for money, and overall satisfaction. The survey takes about two minutes to complete, according to CNET. Responses will be collected through October, after which the publication will analyze the data and publish a roundup of the top-rated products.
The results will feed into CNET’s People’s Picks series, which highlights products and services that readers rate highly. The winners are expected to be announced next month.
Why User Feedback Matters
Moe Long, CNET’s senior editor for privacy and security suites, explained the rationale behind the survey. He noted that privacy and security services are constantly evolving to meet user demands, and that trust and transparency are highly valued—both by him and likely by many readers. He added that CNET is eager to learn how readers protect their data and devices.
Long’s comments underscore a key point: day-to-day performance and device impact are aspects that only real-world users can truly assess. Expert reviews can measure detection rates and features, but they cannot fully replicate the experience of living with a security tool over time. The People’s Pick survey aims to fill that gap.
How to Participate
Readers who want to share their views can take the survey online. It is open through October and requires only a few minutes. CNET encourages participation from users of all types of security software, from free antivirus tools to comprehensive paid suites.
For those who need a refresher on what’s available, CNET also offers expert recommendations for VPNs, password managers, identity theft protection, and data-removal services. These resources can help readers make more informed choices—and perhaps inspire them to share their own experiences.
The survey is not just a popularity contest; it is a way for users to contribute to a collective understanding of what works in cybersecurity. By sharing their thoughts, participants help other readers find protection that is actually worth trusting.
As the digital landscape grows more complex, tools that safeguard data and devices are more important than ever. The People’s Pick survey gives users a voice in identifying the solutions that deliver on their promises. With the survey open through October, there is still time to weigh in and help shape CNET’s 2026 roundup.
