it-sa 2026: The Roadmap for Security Decision-Makers
From October 27 to 29, 2026, the Nuremberg Exhibition Center will once again become the most important meeting point for the IT security industry in the German-speaking region. The it-sa Expo&Congress is Europe’s leading trade fair for IT security. For decision-makers, it is more than an exhibition. It is the place where you can gain a market overview in three days that would otherwise take months.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Dates and Location: October 27 to 29, 2026, Nuremberg Exhibition Center. Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday until 5 p.m.
- The Scale: Last year, 993 exhibitors showcased their solutions in five halls; around 28,000 trade visitors from 64 countries attended.
- The Benefit: Exhibition and Congress@it-sa in one place. Market overview, expert presentations, and direct conversations with providers in three days.
What Makes the it-sa Unique
The it-sa positions itself as the Home of IT Security and is one of the world’s largest dialogue platforms for IT security. Its strength lies in concentration. Few other venues bring the demand side-security officers from companies and public authorities-together with so many providers in such a short time. The offering ranges from protection against targeted attacks to cloud and network security and certification.
Exhibitors 2025
Trade Visitors from 64 Countries
2026 in Nuremberg
The accompanying Congress@it-sa program is part of the fair. It creates the framework for in-depth professional exchange on specific issues, from legal requirements to technical details. Those who plan with purpose combine a tour of the halls with selected presentations and benefit from both sides of the event.
The Topics That Will Dominate in 2026
The thematic focus this year is on regulation. NIS2 is in force in Germany, the Cyber Resilience Act is foreshadowing its reporting requirements, and the AI Act introduces security requirements for AI systems. For decision-makers, the it-sa is the chance to clarify their open questions on these topics directly with providers and experts instead of working through guidance notes.
Alongside this, the established technical topics remain prominent. Cloud and mobile security, securing critical infrastructure and industry, identity protection, and ransomware defense make up large parts of the offering. Newly added is the dual role of artificial intelligence, which is discussed both as a tool for defense and as a new attack surface.
What Decision-Makers Should Take Away
The most common mistake is wandering the fair without a goal. With nearly a thousand exhibitors in five halls, it is easy to lose focus without preparation. Those who gain the most value define two or three specific questions from their own organization in advance, such as implementing a NIS2 requirement or replacing an aging solution. They then seek out the right providers in a targeted way.
It is equally worthwhile to review the congress program before traveling. Relevant presentations book up quickly or overlap; a rough daily schedule prevents disappointments on site. And ultimately, the it-sa is a networking event. The exchange with other security officers about their experiences with specific products is often more valuable than any glossy brochure.
Travel and Planning
The Nuremberg Exhibition Center is directly connected by subway and is also easily accessible by highway. Anyone traveling from farther away should book accommodations early, as hotels in Nuremberg are in high demand during the fair. Comfortable footwear is recommended for the three exhibition days, as the distances across five halls add up quickly.
One practical tip in closing: The it-sa is a trade fair aimed at a professional audience. Pre-registering saves time at the entrance and allows targeted planning of meetings with exhibitors, which many providers offer in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When and where does it-sa 2026 take place?
From October 27 to 29, 2026 at the Nuremberg Exhibition Center. Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Who benefits from attending?
For security officers, IT managers, and decision-makers from companies and public authorities. The it-sa is a trade fair aimed at a professional audience seeking or comparing solutions.
What is the Congress@it-sa?
The fair’s accompanying congress program. It offers expert presentations for in-depth exchange on legal and technical topics and adds substantive depth to the exhibition.
Which topics take center stage in 2026?
Regulation around NIS2, the Cyber Resilience Act, and the AI Act shapes the year. In addition come cloud and mobile security, protection of critical infrastructure, identity protection, and the role of artificial intelligence in attack and defense.
How do you best prepare?
With two or three specific questions from your own organization and a rough daily plan based on the congress program. Those who target the right exhibitors deliberately gain more than from an aimless walk around.
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