Why Cyber Essentials Matters: A Practical Guide for UK Businesses
- ONSec
- May 27
- 3 min read
In a world where cyber threats are growing more sophisticated by the day, many businesses still assume that basic antivirus software and a strong password are enough to stay safe. But the reality is different and that's exactly why the Cyber Essentials scheme exists.
Launched by the UK Government and backed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Cyber Essentials helps businesses take control of their cyber security by focusing on five fundamental technical controls. It's simple, affordable, effective and it can make all the difference when it comes to defending your business from 80% of the most common cyber threats.
So, why should your business get Cyber Essentials certified? Let’s break it down.
1. It Shows You Take Cyber Security Seriously
Having a Cyber Essentials certification is more than just a badge it’s a signal to your clients, partners, and suppliers that you’re committed to protecting their data. In an era where trust is everything, this credibility can set you apart.
In fact, some government contracts and supply chains require Cyber Essentials as a minimum standard, especially for companies handling sensitive or personal data.
2. It Helps You Avoid Common Attacks
Most cyber attacks aren’t highly targeted or complex. They're automated, opportunistic, and looking for low hanging misconfigured settings, weak passwords, unpatched software.
Cyber Essentials helps you get the basics right by focusing on five key areas:
Firewalls
Secure Configuration
User Access Control
Malware Protection
Security Update Management
Getting these in place significantly reduces your risk of being caught out by avoidable attacks.
3. It’s Affordable and Achievable
Unlike more complex frameworks like ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials is designed for businesses of all sizes, especially SMEs. It’s a practical, cost-effective way to improve your security posture without overcomplicating things.
At ONSec, we tailor the certification process to suit your organisation whether you're starting from scratch or need support moving up to Cyber Essentials Plus.
4. It Can Lower Your Insurance Premiums
Did you know that having Cyber Essentials certification can actually reduce your cyber insurance costs? Many insurers recognise certified businesses as lower risk clients and in some cases, the savings can cover the entire cost of certification.
Plus, being certified can speed up claim processes if you’re ever breached, as it shows you took preventative steps to protect your systems.
5. It Boosts Awareness Within Your Team
Cyber Essentials isn’t just about technology it’s also about good habits. Going through the process encourages staff to think more carefully about password hygiene, device use, and reporting suspicious activity.
That increased awareness alone can have a massive impact on your overall resilience.
What’s the Difference Between Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus?
Cyber Essentials is a self assessed certification where you answer a set of questions about your IT setup and policies. It’s reviewed by an accredited certification body like ONSec.
Cyber Essentials Plus goes a step further by including a technical audit of your systems, performed by experienced assessors. It provides a much higher level of assurance, making it ideal for businesses that manage sensitive data or want to meet more rigorous supply chain requirements.
Cyber Essentials isn’t about ticking boxes it’s about building a foundation of cyber security that actually works. Whether you’re a small business looking to win more contracts or a growing company concerned about Cyber Security.
At ONSec, we make the process easy. From pre-assessment guidance to full Cyber Essentials Plus audits, our certified assessors are here to support you every step of the way.
