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Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus Consultancy The Cyber Essentials scheme, developed by the UK government, provides a simple and affordable approach to cyber security. It outlines five basic security controls that protect organisations from around 80% of common cyber attacks. The certification process is designed to help organisations of any size demonstrate their commitment to cyber security. With CCS's support, companies can achieve certification with ease, and show their customers and partners that they take the security of their data seriously.

Enhancing Cybersecurity:

Achieving, and the Benefits of Obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus.


In today's digital age, where businesses heavily rely on technology and online platforms, protecting sensitive data and maintaining robust cybersecurity measures have become paramount. Cyberattacks continue to evolve in sophistication, making it essential for organisations to adopt proactive security practices. While Cyber Essentials certification establishes a solid foundation for cybersecurity, taking the extra step to achieve Cyber Essentials Plus can offer additional benefits and heightened protection against advanced threats.


To achieve Cyber Essentials Plus certification, organisations must meet the core requirements of Cyber Essentials while also undergoing a more comprehensive assessment.


Here are the key elements typically included in the Cyber Essentials Plus certification process:


Cyber Essentials Basic Requirements:

  • Secure Configuration:
  • Organisations must ensure that their devices and software are configured securely, following industry best practices and removing or disabling unnecessary services, protocols, or accounts.
  • Boundary Firewalls and Internet Gateways:
  • Adequate firewalls and internet gateways should be in place to protect internal networks from unauthorised access and external threats.
  • Access Control and Administrative Privileges:
  • Organisations must implement strict access control mechanisms, ensuring that users have appropriate permissions and administrative privileges are tightly controlled.
  • Patch Management:
  • Regular software updates and patches should be applied promptly to address known vulnerabilities and protect against exploits.
  • Malware Protection:
  • Organisations must have robust malware protection measures in place, including up-to-date antivirus software and other security controls.
  • Independent Verification:
  • External Vulnerability Assessment:
  • Certified cybersecurity professionals conduct a comprehensive vulnerability scan of the organisation's systems and networks, identifying potential weaknesses or entry points for attackers.
  • Penetration Testing:
  • Controlled simulated attacks are performed to assess the organisation's defences against real-world threats. This testing aims to identify any exploitable vulnerabilities that could lead to a successful breach.
  • On-Site Assessment:
  • Review of Documentation:
  • The certifying body evaluates the organisation's documented security policies, procedures, and evidence of compliance with Cyber Essentials requirements.
  • Technical Assessment:
  • Certified assessors conduct an on-site assessment to verify that the security controls and practices are implemented effectively and are aligned with the Cyber Essentials Plus requirements.
  • Remediation and Certification:
  • Vulnerabilities and weaknesses identified during the assessment must be addressed and remediated promptly.
  • Once the necessary remediation is completed, the certifying body reviews the evidence and issues the Cyber Essentials Plus certification if all requirements are met.


By meeting these stringent requirements, organisations can attain the Cyber Essentials Plus certification, providing an additional layer of assurance and validation of their commitment to cybersecurity.


Advantages of Cyber Essentials Plus:



Lets explore the advantages of obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus after achieving Cyber Essentials, and why it is worth considering for businesses.


  • Strengthening the Security Infrastructure:
  • Cyber Essentials Plus builds upon the requirements of Cyber Essentials by incorporating an independent verification and testing process. It involves a rigorous assessment by certified cybersecurity professionals who conduct vulnerability scans and simulated attacks against an organisation's network. By subjecting their systems to external scrutiny, businesses gain valuable insights into potential weaknesses or vulnerabilities that may have been overlooked. This process helps in identifying and addressing security gaps, ensuring a robust security infrastructure.
  • Enhanced Protection against Advanced Threats:
  • While Cyber Essentials focuses on fundamental security controls, Cyber Essentials Plus takes it a step further by performing more in-depth penetration testing and vulnerability scanning. This advanced testing allows organisations to evaluate their resilience against sophisticated cyber threats. By identifying vulnerabilities, organisations can proactively patch and secure potential entry points for attackers, reducing the risk of successful breaches. Consequently, businesses can improve their overall cybersecurity posture and better defend against evolving threats.
  • Demonstrating Commitment to Cybersecurity:
  • Obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus certification demonstrates an organisation's commitment to maintaining a high standard of cybersecurity. This certification showcases to clients, partners, and stakeholders that the business has undergone rigorous testing to ensure their systems are adequately protected against cyber threats. It enhances the organisation's reputation, instilling confidence in customers and partners who can trust that their sensitive information is handled with care.
  • Meeting Compliance and Regulatory Requirements:
  • In many industries, compliance with specific cybersecurity regulations and frameworks is mandatory. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus certification can help businesses meet these requirements efficiently. This certification provides evidence of the organization's commitment to cybersecurity best practices and can streamline the compliance process. Additionally, obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus can be a significant advantage when bidding for contracts or collaborating with government agencies or large enterprises that prioritise robust cybersecurity standards.
  • Competitive Advantage:
  • In an increasingly competitive business landscape, organisations that prioritize cybersecurity gain a significant edge. Cyber Essentials Plus certification can act as a differentiating factor, setting businesses apart from competitors who may only possess the basic Cyber Essentials certification. The visible commitment to cybersecurity can attract customers who prioritise security and privacy, especially in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and technology. Demonstrating a proactive approach to cybersecurity can be a compelling selling point and contribute to business growth and client retention.


In a digital world fraught with ever-evolving cyber threats, organisations must continuously strive to enhance their cybersecurity posture. While achieving Cyber Essentials certification establishes a strong foundation, obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus certification takes security measures to the next level. By subjecting their systems to rigorous independent testing, businesses can identify vulnerabilities, strengthen their security infrastructure, and demonstrate their commitment to protecting sensitive information. Cyber Essentials Plus offers enhanced protection against advanced threats, compliance with industry standards, and a competitive advantage in the marketplace.


Investing in Cyber Essentials Plus is an investment in the long-term resilience and success of a business in today's cybersecurity landscape.

Further Information

Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus Consultancy The Cyber Essentials scheme, developed by the UK government, provides a simple and affordable approach to cyber security. It outlines five basic security controls that protect organisations from around 80% of common cyber attacks. The certification process is designed to help organisations of any size demonstrate their commitment to cyber security. With CCS's support, companies can achieve certification with ease, and show their customers and partners that they take the security of their data seriously.

Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus Consultancy

The Cyber Essentials scheme, developed by the UK government, provides a simple and affordable approach to cyber security. It outlines five basic security controls that protect organisations from around 80% of common cyber attacks. The certification process is designed to help organisations of any size demonstrate their commitment to cyber security. With CCS's support, companies can achieve certification with ease, and show their customers and partners that they take the security of their data seriously.Cyber security can be a complex and daunting task for many businesses. 
Cyber Security Consultancy Services.We believe that every business is unique, so we tailor our services to complement your processes and requirements, drawing on sector insights that keep your security goals focused and attainable. Choose CCS for your cyber security needs and achieve critical security accreditation and standards valued by your customers, partners, and supply chain. Let us help you protect information relating to customers, employees, and business operations.

Cyber Security Consultancy Services.

We believe that every business is unique, so we tailor our services to complement your processes and requirements, drawing on sector insights that keep your security goals focused and attainable.    Choose CCS for your cyber security needs and achieve critical security accreditation and standards valued by your customers, partners, and supply chain. Let us help you protect information relating to customers, employees, and business operations.
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