Cyber Essentials is one of the most effective and affordable ways to protect your organisation from the most common cyber attacks. Backed by the UK Government and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), it helps businesses of all sizes improve their basic cybersecurity hygiene, win more contracts, and reduce risk from phishing, malware, and ransomware.
If you're new to Cyber Essentials, this guide explains what it is, why it matters, how certification works, and how you can get started quickly through CyberCompliance.org.uk, an approved IASME certification body.
Why Cyber Essentials Matters
Every day, UK businesses face cyber threats—many of which are easily preventable. According to the latest Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey, over 32% of small and medium-sized UK businesses reported an attack in the past 12 months.
Most of these incidents could have been prevented by implementing just a handful of basic technical controls. That’s exactly what Cyber Essentials is designed to do.
Cyber Essentials helps you protect your organisation from the five most common attack vectors:
- Malware (including ransomware and keyloggers)
- Phishing attacks
- Password theft and brute force attacks
- Unpatched vulnerabilities in software or operating systems
- Misconfigured firewalls and insecure devices
It provides your organisation with a clear framework for getting the basics right—without needing to hire a full-time cybersecurity team.
What Does Cyber Essentials Cover?
Cyber Essentials focuses on five key areas that every business needs to secure:
Firewalls and Internet Gateways
Properly configured firewalls are the first line of defence between your systems and the internet.
Secure Configuration
All devices and software must be securely configured—removing unnecessary apps, disabling unused ports, and ensuring strong device policies.
User Access Control
Users should only have access to what they need. Admin accounts must be protected with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
Malware Protection
Devices must be protected with anti-malware, safe browsing controls, and secure app stores.
Patch Management
Security updates must be installed promptly—especially for high-risk vulnerabilities.
These five areas are straightforward, but they significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to cyber crime.
What Are the Types of Certification?
There are two levels of Cyber Essentials certification:
1. Cyber Essentials (Basic)
This involves a self-assessment questionnaire reviewed by an approved certification body like CyberCompliance.org.uk. It confirms that your organisation meets all five control requirements.
It’s fast, low-cost, and often completed within 1–3 business days.
2. Cyber Essentials Plus
This is the next level up, involving a technical audit by an assessor. It includes:
- Scanning your devices for vulnerabilities
- Checking patch levels and configuration
- Testing malware protection and email filtering
Cyber Essentials Plus provides a higher level of assurance to customers, insurers, and regulators. It's often required for MOD, NHS, and public sector contracts.
Who Needs Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is recommended (and often required) for:
- SMEs and start-ups looking to win more business
- Public sector suppliers and government contractors
- Charities and schools seeking to protect data and funding
- SaaS and cloud service providers under client due diligence
- Any business looking to reduce risk and demonstrate security
If you want to show your customers, investors, and stakeholders that you take security seriously, Cyber Essentials is one of the best first steps you can take.
Cyber Essentials Benefits at a Glance
✅ Demonstrate cyber hygiene to clients and partners
✅ Protect against 80%+ of common threats
✅ Comply with UK Government procurement rules
✅ Qualify for cyber insurance
✅ Build trust with your customers
✅ Gain a competitive advantage in tenders
How to Get Cyber Essentials Certified
At CyberCompliance.org.uk, we’re here to make the certification process as simple and stress-free as possible.
We offer:
- Same-day portal access to start your assessment
- Expert support throughout the process
- Fixed transparent pricing
- Bundle discounts for CE + CE Plus
- Optional penetration testing and technical guidance
We’ve helped hundreds of businesses across the UK achieve certification quickly and affordably.
Get Cyber Essentials Certified Today
If you're ready to strengthen your cybersecurity, meet compliance requirements, and demonstrate to customers and partners that you take information security seriously, now is the perfect time to get started.
Cyber Essentials certification is one of the most cost-effective and impactful steps you can take to reduce cyber risk and build trust in your brand. Whether you're aiming for the basic Cyber Essentials certification or planning to complete Cyber Essentials Plus, our team is here to support you at every stage.
📧 Contact us today: info@cybercompliance.org.uk
🌐 Apply online: https://cybercompliance.org.uk/pages/cyber-essentials
Let’s help you secure your business—one essential control at a time.
Cyber Essentials FAQ
How long does certification take?
Cyber Essentials (self-assessed) certifications are typically completed within 1–3 business days. Cyber Essentials Plus audits usually take 5–10 working days, depending on scheduling and readiness.
Is there ongoing support?
Yes. We provide year-round guidance, annual renewal reminders, policy templates, and access to expert advice if your IT environment changes between certifications.
How much does Cyber Essentials cost?
Certification starts at just £320 + VAT for micro businesses. Cyber Essentials Plus audits are priced from £999.00 + VAT, depending on your organisation’s size and complexity.