For organisations serious about safeguarding their data, reputation, and operations, Cyber Essentials isn’t just a recommended certification - it’s a strategic necessity. But before you can get certified, there’s one thing you need to get right: your cyber security hygiene.
What Is Cyber Essentials Plus – And How Do You Achieve It?
Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus demonstrates a proactive commitment to cyber security, reassuring customers, partners and stakeholders that your organisation takes data protection seriously.
In today’s increasingly digital landscape, achieving Cyber Essentials certification offers a significant competitive advantage - a view shared by 69% of certified organisations, according to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). It’s also often a prerequisite for bidding on government contracts and can strengthen trust with clients, especially in industries handling sensitive information.
By undergoing the rigorous audit process, organisations not only validate their security posture but also identify and resolve vulnerabilities that could otherwise go unnoticed.
The Cyber Essentials certification covers five key controls:
- Firewalls – Protecting your network from unauthorised access.
- Secure Configuration – Ensuring systems are set up securely.
- User Access Control – Managing who has access to what.
- Malware Protection – Preventing and detecting malicious software.
- Patch Management – Keeping software up to date to fix vulnerabilities.
To achieve Cyber Essentials Plus, your organisation must demonstrate that these controls are not only in place but are working effectively across your IT infrastructure.
For more information on what your business should be doing, read our Cyber Hygiene Checklist.
Why Cyber Security Hygiene Matters
Just like a car needs regular servicing — oil changes, tyre checks, and MOTs — your digital systems need routine care. Neglecting small issues like outdated software or weak passwords is like ignoring a warning light on your dashboard: it might not seem urgent, but it can lead to breakdowns or costly repairs later.
Poor cyber hygiene can lead to:
- Unpatched software vulnerabilities
- Weak or reused passwords
- Unsecured devices and networks
- Inadequate access controls
These gaps are exactly what Cyber Essentials Plus aims to identify and eliminate to improve your overall cyber security hygiene. In fact, according to the NCSC, there have been 92% fewer insurance claims made by organisations with Cyber Essentials controls in place.
How Sharp’s Cyber Security Packages Can Help
Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus is more than a compliance milestone - it’s a commitment to building a resilient, security-first culture across your organisation. We understand the challenges businesses face in navigating cyber threats, and our Cyber Security Packages are purpose-built to support you every step of the way.
Our specialists work closely with you to simplify the process, reduce risk, and ensure your business is protected - not just for certification, but for long-term resilience.
