Cyber Essentials Comparison: Cyber Essentials vs Cyber Essentials Plus Explained

When it comes to protecting your business from cyber threats, getting certified with Cyber Essentials is a smart move. But you might be wondering about the difference between Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. Both offer valuable protection, but they vary in scope and assurance. This guide will help you understand what each certification involves, so you can make the best choice for your organisation.

Understanding Cyber Essentials: The Basics

Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed scheme designed to help businesses protect themselves against common cyber attacks. It focuses on five key controls:

• Secure your internet connection

• Secure your devices and software

• Control access to your data and services

• Protect from viruses and malware

• Keep your devices and software up to date

  
  

By meeting these requirements, you show that your business takes cybersecurity seriously. The certification process involves a self-assessment questionnaire. You answer questions about your security measures, and an external certifying body reviews your responses.

This certification is ideal if you want to demonstrate basic cyber hygiene. It’s quick to achieve and cost-effective. Many organisations use it as a stepping stone to stronger security.

Cyber Essentials self-assessment checklist on laptop screen

Cyber Essentials Plus: Taking Security a Step Further

Cyber Essentials Plus builds on the basic Cyber Essentials certification. It includes all the same controls but adds an independent technical verification. This means a qualified assessor will test your systems to confirm your security measures are working effectively.

The assessment includes:

• Internal and external vulnerability scans

• Testing of your firewalls and antivirus software

• Checks on user access controls

• Verification of patch management

  
  

This hands-on testing provides a higher level of assurance. It shows that your business not only claims to have security controls but that they are actively protecting your systems.

Cyber Essentials Plus is perfect if you handle sensitive data or want to reassure clients and partners with stronger proof of your cybersecurity.

Technical assessment for Cyber Essentials Plus certification

What is the difference between Cyber Essentials and Plus?

The main difference lies in the verification process. Cyber Essentials relies on your self-assessment, while Cyber Essentials Plus requires an independent technical audit.

Here’s a quick comparison:

If you want to win government contracts or work with organisations that demand higher security, Cyber Essentials Plus is often required. However, Cyber Essentials is a great starting point for many businesses.

Why Choose Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus?

Choosing between these two certifications depends on your business needs and risk profile.

• Cyber Essentials is suitable if you want to quickly demonstrate basic cybersecurity. It’s ideal for sole traders, SMEs, and organisations new to cyber certification.

• Cyber Essentials Plus is better if you need stronger assurance. It’s often required by larger enterprises, legal and financial organisations, and those in the UK government supply chain.

  
  

Both certifications help reduce the risk of cyber attacks. They also improve your reputation and can open doors to new contracts.

Here are some practical tips to decide:

1. Assess your risk - If you handle sensitive data or critical systems, go for Plus.

2. Consider your budget - Plus costs more but offers greater assurance.

3. Check client requirements - Some clients or contracts may specify which certification they need.

4. Plan for the future - Starting with Cyber Essentials can lead to Plus certification later.

   
   

How to Prepare for Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus

Preparation is key to a smooth certification process. Here’s how you can get ready:

• Review your current security - Check your firewalls, antivirus, and patch management.

• Document your policies - Have clear policies on access control and device management.

• Train your staff - Make sure everyone understands basic cybersecurity practices.

• Fix vulnerabilities - Address any weaknesses before the assessment.

• Choose a trusted certifying body - Work with experts who can guide you through the process.

  
  

For Cyber Essentials Plus, you’ll also need to allow technical testing. This means your systems must be accessible for scans and assessments.

By preparing well, you can avoid delays and increase your chances of passing the certification on the first try.

Getting Certified with Get Cyber Certified

If you’re ready to get started, Get Cyber Certified is the go-to expert for UK businesses and IT support providers. They specialise in helping organisations quickly achieve Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus, and Cyber Assurance certifications.

Their team understands the unique needs of legal, financial, and government supply chain organisations. They provide clear guidance, practical advice, and fast certification to reduce your risks and help you win more contracts.

Whether you’re a sole trader or a large enterprise, Get Cyber Certified can support your journey to better cybersecurity.

Explore more about cyber essentials vs cyber essentials plus and find the right certification for your business today!

By understanding the differences and benefits of Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus, you can make an informed decision. Both certifications are valuable tools to protect your business and build trust with clients. Take the next step and secure your organisation’s future with the right cyber certification!