Cyber Essentials Plus: Easy No-Nonsense Guide to Getting Certified
Let’s be honest—cybersecurity can be a bit overwhelming. Firewalls, patching, threat detection… it’s a lot. But if you’re running a business, you need to show you take security seriously. Enter Cyber Essentials Plus—a government-backed certification that helps you prove it.
It’s not about impressing the IT crowd. It’s about protecting your business, winning contracts, and showing customers and partners that their data is in safe hands.
What’s the Difference Between Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus?
Cyber Essentials is the starting point—a self-assessed checklist of the basics: secure configuration, firewalls, access control, patch management, and malware protection. Think of it as locking your front door and checking the windows.
Cyber Essentials Plus takes it up a notch. It includes everything in Cyber Essentials, but adds an independent assessment by a certifying body. In short, it’s proof you’re not just saying you’ve got good security—you’re showing it.
Why Should You Care?
Because cyber threats don’t care how big or small your business is. And in today’s world, doing the bare minimum just doesn’t cut it. Cyber Essentials Plus:
- Builds trust – Clients and partners know you’re taking data protection seriously.
- Opens doors – Government contracts (and many private ones) require it.
- Reduces risk – The five control areas cover the most common attack methods.
- Keeps you compliant – It supports your efforts with GDPR and other regulations.
What’s Involved in Getting Certified?
We won’t lie—it’s a bit more involved than Cyber Essentials. But it’s not a mountain, either. Here’s what to expect:
- Pre-assessment and preparation – We help identify any gaps and get everything in order.
- On-site or remote audit – A certified body tests your systems to make sure they meet the standard.
- Remediation (if needed) – Got a few things to fix? You’ll get clear feedback on what to do.
- Final certification – Once everything checks out, you’re officially certified.
It’s that simple.
Who Is Cyber Essentials Plus For?
If you’re handling sensitive data, working with government bodies, or just want to boost your security credibility, Cyber Essentials Plus is for you. It’s especially valuable for SMEs looking to:
- Bid for new business.
- Show they’re taking cyber threats seriously.
- Demonstrate compliance without diving into the deep end of ISO 27001.
How We Can Help
At Fusion, we’ve guided countless businesses through the Cyber Essentials Plus journey. We handle the prep, smooth the audit process, and help you avoid the usual headaches.
Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading from Cyber Essentials, we’re here to make it straightforward and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Cyber Essentials Plus isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about putting your business in a better position—more secure, more trusted, and ready for whatever comes next.
Need a hand getting started? Let’s talk. Because when it comes to cybersecurity, it pays to get the basics right—and prove it.
