Zhou Hongyi

Net Worth

$2.37B

-0.41% (24h)

Zhou Hongyi is a prominent Chinese entrepreneur and the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Qihoo 360, a leading internet security company. With a current net worth of $2.52 billion, he is ranked #1219 on Forbes' 2025 Billionaires list. Zhou's wealth stems from his success in the technology industry, particularly in security software. His career includes founding 3721, a search engine later acquired by Yahoo!, and spearheading Qihoo 360, which offers free antivirus software and has become a major player in cybersecurity, utilizing a freemium model. Zhou is known for his outspoken nature and aggressive business tactics, significantly influencing China's internet landscape. He holds degrees from Xi'an Jiaotong University.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Zhou Hongyi was born on October 4, 1970, in Huanggang, Hubei, China. He holds a master's degree from Xi'an Jiaotong University.

Rise to Success

Zhou's career in the tech industry began in 1998 when he founded 3721, a search engine that sold Chinese-language keywords. In 2004, Yahoo! acquired 3721 for $120 million, with Zhou heading Yahoo! China's operations. In 2005, due to management differences, Zhou left Yahoo to start Qihoo 360. Qihoo 360 has since become one of China's leading internet security companies, providing security software and services.

Key Business Strategies

Zhou is known for popularizing the freemium model in cybersecurity. Qihoo 360 provides free antivirus software and monetizes through value-added services, advertising, and other offerings. He has been a vocal advocate for cybersecurity and has influenced the industry through his strategic decisions and outspoken nature.

Philanthropy

Details of Zhou Hongyi's specific philanthropic initiatives are not readily available in the provided search results.

Career Timeline

2005

Founded Qihoo 360

Zhou established Qihoo 360, an internet security company, which became a major player in the cybersecurity market.

2004

Yahoo! acquired 3721

3721 was acquired by Yahoo! for $120 million, with Zhou heading Yahoo! China's operations.

1998

Founded 3721

Founded 3721, a search engine that sold Chinese-language keywords, laying the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey.

Philanthropic Impact

Information Not AvailableUndisclosed

Information Not Available

Details on Zhou Hongyi's specific philanthropic initiatives are not available in the search results.