Cyber Essentials Plus: Why Do You Need It?
The Ultimate Protection for Your Business & Customers
By now, many businesses are already aware of Cyber Essentials Plus; whether they know the ins and outs of it, or they’ve simply heard the name before. But why exactly do you need it and what are the exact specifications to achieve it?
Don’t be fooled by flashy offers and scare-mongering. Yes, Cyber Essentials Plus requires an incredibly in-depth audit of your entire systems, but you can achieve the first steps all by yourself before bringing in the experts.
“Why would I need Cyber Essentials Plus?”
Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus demonstrates a business’s commitment to cyber security, reassuring clients, partners and stakeholders that their data is protected with industry-recognised security measures. This certification enhances credibility, helping businesses differentiate themselves from competitors while fostering long-term trust and loyalty among customers. By proactively addressing security risks, organisations can reduce reputational damage from potential breaches, reinforcing confidence in their brand and operational integrity.
“What do I need to get Cyber Essentials Plus certified?”
It may surprise you to know that you probably already own some of the required software.
There are 5 key controls which are required to pass a Cyber Essentials Plus audit.
- Firewalls
- Secure Configuration
- Access Control
- Malware Protection
- Patch Management
Let’s delve into each control a little more and put them into simpler terms.
Firewalls:
Security tools that act as barriers to control and protect the flow of internet traffic to and from your computer or network. One example would be WatchGuard Firebox.
Secure Configuration:
Removing unnecessary software and accounts, and changing default settings to reduce vulnerabilities. This can be done manually or you can configure security settings in WatchGuard Endpoint Security.
Access Control:
Restrict who can view or use resources in a computing environment so that only authorized user can access systems and data. Again, this can be done manually or with the assistance of a security application.
Malware Protection:
While antivirus protects your devices against computer viruses, antimalware goes one step further by protecting against various types of malicious software, including viruses, spyware, adware and ransomware. Many endpoint security applications (e.g. Microsoft Defender) will suffice for this but we would personally recommend WatchGuard or ESET’s EDPR.
Patch Management:
Regular software updates are crucial as they often include fixes or patches for any security flaws that had gone unnoticed or were added to the previous update in error. Whether you use software to assist with this or not, we highly recommend you check for updates yourself to really keep your systems airtight.
“Can I complete the Cyber Essentials Plus audit myself?”
No. While standard Cyber Essentials can be completed by an individual, Cyber Essentials Plus requires a qualified third party to carry out the audit. Our Cyber Security department here at Logic Business Systems are happy to help if you’re ready to make the leap.
“Is passing Cyber Essentials Plus easy?”
In theory, yes. If you’ve been practicing good cyber security processes then it shouldn’t be too much trouble implementing the official requirements. If the jargon or criteria feel too difficult to tackle without expert help, we’re happy to step in at any point to fulfil the requirements before completing the audit.
Cyber Essentials Plus Certification by Logic Business Systems
Experienced, skilled, reliable and – most importantly – local, our Cyber Security department here at Logic has made many happy, certificate-holding customers. If you’d like to bring your business to the next level and join the growing list of official Cyber Essentials Plus holders, get in touch with us today for a free estimate.
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