Think of Cyber Essentials as a health check for your IT.
A bit like an MOT for your cyber security. It’s a UK Government-backed certification that helps businesses of all shapes and sizes protect themselves from the most common online threats.
The best bit:
Getting certified isn’t just about ticking a compliance box. It’s about proving to clients, suppliers, and partners that your business takes security seriously, which, in today’s world of ransomware, phishing, and data breaches, is a pretty big deal!
In this post, we’ll explain what Cyber Essentials is, what it covers, and why it matters. Especially, if you’re an SME that wants to stay secure (and sleep a little easier).
What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a UK Government-backed certification scheme developed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and delivered by IASME.
Its goal is simple:
To help organisations defend against the most common cyber attacks. The ones that target small and medium businesses every single day.
The scheme focuses on practical, proven steps that dramatically reduce your risk of being compromised. It’s not about buying expensive tools or building a bunker, it’s about getting the basics right.
There are two certification levels:
- Cyber Essentials (CE) – a self-assessment questionnaire that ensures you’ve got the five key security controls in place.
- Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) – everything in CE, plus an independent technical audit to verify that your systems actually do what they say on the tin.
In short:
CE sets the standard.
CE+ proves you meet it.
What does Cyber Essentials cover?
The certification is built around five essential technical controls. Each one addresses a common weak point that cyber criminals love to exploit:
#1 Firewalls and internet gateways
These act as your digital gatekeepers, blocking unwanted traffic and keeping the bad stuff out.
CE ensures they’re properly configured, not just switched on and forgotten about.
#2 Secure configuration
This covers how your devices and systems are set up.
Default passwords, unnecessary apps, and “that laptop no one’s updated since 2020” all count as risks.
The goal here:
Lock down what’s not needed, and only run what’s safe.
#3 User access control
Not everyone needs access to everything.
This principle keeps sensitive data limited to those who actually need it, minimising damage if an account gets compromised.
#4 Malware protection
Antivirus is the obvious part, but this also includes preventing malicious apps, scripts, and files from sneaking in.
It’s about ensuring every device is armed and dangerous, in a good way.
#5 Patch management
Arguably the unsung hero of cyber security.
This ensures software updates (patches) are applied promptly, closing known vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them.
Cyber Essentials vs Cyber Essentials Plus
Both levels protect your business but the difference lies in how your defences are verified.
| CE | CE+ |
| Self-assessed questionnaire | Independently audited by a certified assessor |
| Confirms key controls are in place | Confirms controls work as intended |
| Ideal for smaller organisations | Recommended for any business handling client data |
| Cost-effective baseline | Trusted proof of robust, tested protection |
Achieving CE+ demonstrates a higher level of assurance. It’s the difference between saying “our doors are locked” and having a security expert confirm they actually are.
At Beacon IT, we’ve achieved CE+ certification because when it comes to protecting client data, we prefer proof over promises.
Why Cyber Essentials matters for SMEs
Let’s be honest:
Most cyber attacks aren’t Hollywood-level hacks, they’re opportunistic.
Attackers scan for businesses with weak passwords, missing updates, or exposed services.
Cyber Essentials shuts down those easy entry points.
Here’s why that matters:
- It builds trust. Clients and partners know you’re serious about security and that their data’s in good hands.
- It reduces risk. The controls cover more than 80% of the most common attack vectors, from phishing to malware.
- It saves money. Many insurers now offer lower premiums for certified businesses.
- It’s a door-opener. Government contracts and many large organisations require CE as a minimum.
Here’s a bonus reason:
It just makes good business sense. Fewer breaches mean less downtime, less data loss, and fewer headaches.
How to get CE certified
Getting certified might sound daunting, but it’s actually very achievable, especially with the right IT partner.
Here’s the typical process:
- Assess your setup. Review your current systems and identify any gaps.
- Fix what’s needed. Implement (or improve) the five controls — firewalls, configuration, access, malware, and patching.
- Complete the self-assessment. For CE, this is reviewed by a qualified certification body.
- Book your audit (for Plus). A certified assessor tests your defences to verify compliance.
- Get certified and celebrate. You’ll receive your official certificate, valid for 12 months. Proof your business meets national security standards 🎉
It’s a clear, structured process that typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on your readiness.
Beacon IT is Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) certified
We’re proud to say that Beacon IT has achieved CE+ certification.
Our certification means our systems, networks, and internal processes have been independently audited and verified to meet strict security standards.
You can view our official certificate here:
For our clients, that means extra peace of mind:
Every patch, process, and password policy we recommend is one we live by ourselves.
Final Thoughts
Cyber Essentials isn’t just about compliance. It’s about confidence.
It shows your clients (and would-be hackers) that your business has done its homework.
Whether you’re just starting your security journey or ready to aim for Plus, we can help you get there.
🔐 Ready to strengthen your defences?
Talk to us about preparing for Cyber Essentials certification or let us guide you through the Plus process from start to finish.
