What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber threats are on the rise, and businesses of all sizes are at risk. Cyber Essentials is a UK Government-backed scheme that helps you safeguard against the most common cyber attacks. Achieving certification demonstrates your commitment to security and builds trust with customers, partners, and regulators. Within the framework it focuses on five key areas:
Firewalls & Internet Gateways
Secure Configuration
Access Control
Malware Protection
Patch Management
Why Cyber Essentials Matters
Defend Against 80% of Common Threats
Implement five key security controls to reduce risk dramatically.
Win More Business
Many government contracts and supply chains require Cyber Essentials certification.
Boost Customer Confidence
Show clients you take data protection seriously.
Support Compliance
Align with GDPR and other regulatory requirements.
Cyber Essentials vs Cyber Essentials Plus
Both certifications help protect your business, but they offer different levels of assurance:
Cyber Essentials
Self-Assessment - Complete an online questionnaire verified by a certification body.
Ideal For - Businesses looking for a quick, cost-effective way to demonstrate basic cyber practices or that are just starting their journey.
Cyber Essentials Plus
Independent Technical Audit - A certified assessor conducts hands-on checks to verify your security measures.
Higher Assurance - Proves your controls work in practice, not just on paper.
Ideal For - Organisations handling sensitive data, working in regulated sectors, or seeking stronger client trust.
Reduce Your Risk
Programs like Cyber Essentials offer a structured and effective approach to building cyber resilience. With a proven record of reducing risk, businesses holding a Cyber Essentials certification are:
✓ 92% less likely to make cyber insurance claims.
Certification ensures your business is prepared to defend against the vast majority of common cyberattacks, protecting your data, reputation, and customers.
Get Cyber Essentials Ready with Millgate's help
Millgate delivers complete solutions for clients
Case Study
The Sherwood Group
For over two decades, The Sherwood Group operated with minimal focus on IT, but following a major ransomware attack, the business needed to invest in a fully managed service provider, which led them to Millgate.
Posted on 04/11/2025
