CYBER ESSENTIALS

A Guide To Certification

What is the Cyber Essentials Scheme?

To combat the growing threat of cyber-attacks and their impact on small businesses, the UK Government’s Department for Business, Innovation and Skills introduced the Cyber Essentials scheme in 2014.

Developed in partnership with the Information Security Forum, the Information Assurance for Small and Medium Enterprise Consortium, and the British Standards Institution, this government-backed initiative provides businesses with a structured security framework to safeguard their data.

With cyber threats rising, especially against small businesses, strong security measures have never been more crucial. Cyber Essentials helps businesses implement fundamental protections to reduce the risk of data breaches and unauthorised access.

The scheme is built around five essential cybersecurity controls:

  1. Access Control – Restricting data access to authorised users only.

  2. Secure Configuration – Optimising system settings to reduce vulnerabilities.

  3. Patch Management – Keeping software updated to mitigate security risks.

  4. Malware Protection – Defending systems against malicious threats.

  5. Internet Gateways and Boundary Firewalls – Strengthening network security measures.

Benefits of Cyber Essentials Certification

Cyber Essentials certification provides businesses with robust protection against cyber threats, reducing the risk of 80% of the most common cyber-attacks. In addition to strengthening security, it offers several valuable advantages:

  • Trust and Credibility – Displaying the Cyber Essentials trust badge demonstrates a company’s commitment to cybersecurity, helping to build confidence among customers, suppliers, investors, and partners.

  • Secure Business Relations – The certification acts as a recognised benchmark for evaluating potential collaborators, particularly when handling sensitive data. It is also a common requirement for small businesses looking to tender for public sector contracts.

  • Free Cyber Insurance – Certified organisations may qualify for free cyber insurance cover up to £25,000, with the possibility of reduced premiums on other business insurance policies.

By adopting Cyber Essentials, businesses not only improve their security posture but also gain a competitive edge, promoting trust and securing valuable partnerships.

Latest Updates to the Cyber Essentials Scheme

In early 2022, the Cyber Essentials scheme was updated to align with evolving cybersecurity protocols and workplace practices.

As businesses increasingly move to cloud computing and remote work, the scheme introduced changes to reflect these shifts, ensuring organisations maintain strong security measures in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Home Working Devices

As remote and hybrid working becomes more common, all devices used for work, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones, must comply with security standards such as firewall protection to ensure data safety.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Businesses must implement MFA, adding an extra layer of security beyond passwords to reduce the risk of unauthorised access to networks and systems.

Endpoint Devices

Previously, only server systems required certification, but now all endpoint devices must be secured to minimise vulnerabilities across the network.

Software Updates

Critical and high-risk software updates must be applied within 14 days, automatic updates should be enabled for essential software, and all programs must be fully licensed and obtained directly from the developer. Unused software should also be removed.

Account Separation

Employees should use separate accounts for work and personal activities to prevent security risks, ensuring business networks remain secure.

How to Become Cyber Essentials Certified

Cyber Essentials is a self-assessment scheme that can be completed remotely. However, to ensure full and ongoing compliance, we recommend working with your IT support company, who can guide you through the process efficiently and effectively. Additionally, some organisations require Cyber Essentials accreditation as a prerequisite for doing business with them.

United UK Technology is Cyber Essentials certified, and we have successfully helped many customers achieve their accreditation. We handle the entire process, including all necessary remediation tasks, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

If you'd like more details about the scheme, Get in touch with us today.