Cyber Essentials Vs Cyber Essentials Plus: Understanding the Difference & Which is Right for You?
Two of the most widely recognised certifications that help businesses achieve robust cyber security measures are Cyber Essentials (CE) and Cyber Essentials Plus (CEP).
“Do I need Cyber Essentials?”
“Is CE or CEP better for my business?”
“What are the advantages of having CE or CEP certification?”
These are some of the many questions we come across from organisations considering CE/CEP and in this article, we’ll answer these questions, exploring the distinctions between Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus – helping you understand which certification is right for your business and how they can contribute to stronger overall cyber security practices.
What’s the difference between CE and CEP?
At their core, both Cyber Essentials (CE) and Cyber Essentials Plus (CEP) aim to protect organisations from common cyber threats by implementing key security measures. However, the differences lie in the depth of their assessments, the level of security assurance provided, and the type of organisations that would benefit the most from each.
Assessment Approach:
CE focuses on a self-assessment model. Businesses complete a questionnaire to confirm they’ve implemented the five basic cybersecurity controls - firewalls, secure configurations, user access control, malware protection, and patch management. While this is a cost-effective approach, it largely relies on the organisation’s own report of its security practices.
CEP takes the certification process a step further by involving an independent, hands-on technical audit. A qualified assessor tests the organisation’s cyber security measures, ensuring that the controls are not only in place but also functioning effectively. This audit provides an additional layer of assurance, reducing the risk of missed vulnerabilities.
Level of Assurance:
While CE certification demonstrates that an organisation has taken the initial steps toward cyber security, it is more of a starting point. It provides peace of mind that essential controls are implemented, but it does not verify the effectiveness of these controls through testing.
CEP offers a much higher level of assurance, as it includes real-world testing of your systems. This means your business’s defences are validated by an independent expert, providing greater confidence to stakeholders, clients, and partners, particularly in industries that require more rigorous security standards.
Suitability for Different Businesses:
The CE certification is best suited for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simpler IT infrastructures. It provides a cost-effective way for businesses to meet basic cyber security requirements, enhance client trust, and demonstrate compliance with regulatory standards.
CEP however, is ideal for larger organisations or businesses that handle sensitive data, such as those in healthcare, finance, government, or education. The added depth of the technical audit makes it suitable for companies facing more complex cyber risks, or for those looking to secure high-value contracts that require stronger cyber security assurance.
So…
Both certifications are valuable tools for protecting your business, but understanding their differences will help you determine which one aligns with your specific needs and risk profile.
How to Achieve CE and CEP…
The Cyber Essentials application journey will differ slightly depending on whether you choose Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus and the timescales may differ depending on the applicant’s completion of each stage.
CE is achieved through a self-assessment process carried out under the guidance of our cyber security experts. Upon completion of the questionnaire, you will receive the certification, allowing you to display the official Cyber Essentials badge on your documents and website.
IASME’s new guidelines now require all Cyber Essentials Plus customers to hold a basic certification that was purchased no longer than three months prior to the Cyber Essentials Plus application. Therefore, to apply for Cyber Essentials Plus or renew your Plus certification, you first need to become Cyber Essentials Basic certified.
Why should I become CE or CEP certified?
Achieving either Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus certification provides significant benefits for businesses, improving both cyber security and reputation. Whether your organisation is small or large, obtaining these certifications demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding against cyber threats, meeting regulatory requirements, and gaining a competitive advantage.
Benefits of Becoming Cyber Essentials Certified
Cyber Essentials is an entry-level certification that demonstrates your organisation is proactively protecting itself from common cyber threats, akin to ‘locking your doors and windows’ to reduce the chance of a break-in at home. It is something that organisations of all sizes and sectors can adhere too, no matter how small or large. The benefits include:
Enhanced Trust and Compliance:
Demonstrates a commitment to cyber security, reassuring clients, customers, and partners.
Can help meet regulatory and legal requirements, especially in sectors where cyber security compliance is mandatory.
Improved Security Posture:
Focuses on implementing five key controls: firewalls, secure configurations, user access controls, malware protection, and patch management.
Reduces exposure to common cyber threats.
Foundation for Future Certifications:
Provides a baseline for businesses looking to pursue more advanced certifications like ISO 27001 or Cyber Essentials Plus.
Benefits of Cyber Essentials Plus Certification
Cyber Essentials Plus builds on the Cyber Essentials framework. The previous CE assessment is independently verified by a qualified third-party. The key benefits include:
Increased Trust and Assurance:
Provides greater confidence to customers, partners, and stakeholders due to the independent technical verification.
Demonstrates a higher level of cyber security compliance, often seen as more credible by larger organisations and government entities.
More Comprehensive Security:
In addition to the five controls in the basic Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus includes a deeper review of your security practices and ensures they are implemented as described.
Identifies potential vulnerabilities through actual testing of your IT infrastructure, providing a stronger defence against attacks.
Competitive Edge and Market Access:
Can be a differentiator for organisations bidding for larger contracts, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government where stricter cyber security procedures are required.
Some sectors may require Cyber Essentials Plus specifically for suppliers, contractors and sub-contractors, particularly if handling sensitive data.
PureCyber Talks - Join Our Upcoming Webinar:
Introduction to Cyber Essentials 2025
Join us for a tell-all webinar designed to help you navigate the ins & outs of Cyber Essentials/CE Plus accreditation and why your organisation should be certified in 2025.
You’ll gain a clear understanding of Cyber Essentials and its importance - what is it? How easy is it to achieve?
Learn how Cyber Essentials can help protect your business from most internet-based cyber attacks
Discover how PureCyber can guide your organisation to implementing the core controls of CE successfully
An unmissable webinar highlighting everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Cyber Essentials…and by attending, you’ll also get access to our free Governance Guide - an all-in-one resource explaining the various accreditations available to you and the value they can provide to your organisation.
Find out more and sign up today!
Why PureCyber?
At PureCyber, we partner with you to enhance your cyber security and ensure compliance with Cyber Essentials standards. We offer:
Expert Guidance: Support throughout every step of the certification process.
Comprehensive Solutions: From basic to advanced security services, tailored to your needs.
Continuous Support: Ongoing monitoring and swift resolution of security issues.
Enhanced Trust and Compliance: Build credibility with clients and ensure regulatory adherence.
Cost-Effective Packages: Flexible pricing options for businesses of all sizes.
User-Friendly Process: Streamlined certification with minimal disruption to your operations.
Holistic Approach: Cyber security integrated with your overall business strategy.
Proven Track Record: A history of successful implementations across various industries.
Get in touch or book in a call for more information on Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus, and how we can safeguard your business with our expert cyber security solutions.
Email: info@purecyber.com
Call: 0800 368 9397