As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations must go beyond basic security measures to protect their digital assets. The Cyber Essentials scheme offers a robust starting point, but for companies seeking a higher level of assurance, Cyber Essentials Plus provides the next step. While both levels share the same core requirements, Cyber Essentials Plus involves an independent technical assessment to verify that your controls are not only in place—but also effective. If your organization is considering upgrading, here’s what to expect from a Cyber Essentials Plus assessment and how to prepare for it.
What Makes Cyber Essentials Plus Different?
Unlike the basic Cyber Essentials certification, which relies on a self-assessment questionnaire, Cyber Essentials Plus includes a hands-on audit performed by an accredited external assessor. This technical review tests whether the five key controls of Cyber Essentials—firewall security, secure configuration, user access control, malware protection, and patch management—are actively protecting your systems. It’s a more rigorous and detailed process that provides greater confidence to stakeholders, regulators, and customers.
Pre-Assessment Preparation
Before the Cyber Essentials Plus audit, your organization should already have achieved the standard Cyber Essentials certification. This means you have the basic controls in place. However, don’t assume that passing the self-assessment guarantees success in Cyber Essentials Plus. You should conduct an internal review or even a mock audit with a cybersecurity consultant to identify any gaps. Make sure all devices are updated, antivirus software is running, unnecessary services are disabled, and user privileges are restricted to what’s strictly needed.
The Scope of the Assessment
The Cyber Essentials Plus assessment typically focuses on a representative sample of your IT systems. This includes user devices such as laptops and desktops, as well as cloud services, firewalls, and servers. The assessor will evaluate these systems for vulnerabilities, unpatched software, and misconfigurations. In many cases, the assessor will perform external vulnerability scans to check if your internet-facing services are properly secured in line with Cyber Essentials standards.
Common Tests Performed
During the Cyber Essentials Plus assessment, expect a series of technical checks. These may include verifying that software updates have been applied, testing user account permissions, simulating malware infections, and evaluating how antivirus tools respond. The assessor may also attempt to access internal systems through external entry points. All of these tests are grounded in the five Cyber Essentials control areas, with a focus on practical implementation rather than theory.
Addressing Identified Issues
If any vulnerabilities or issues are discovered during the Cyber Essentials Plus assessment, you’ll typically be given a short window—often 30 days—to remediate them. Once you’ve addressed the findings, the assessor may revisit your systems to verify compliance. It’s essential to treat this process as an opportunity for improvement, rather than a failure. Fixing these issues helps you align more closely with the goals of Cyber Essentials and enhances your overall cybersecurity posture.
How Long Does It Take?
The duration of a Cyber Essentials Plus assessment depends on the size and complexity of your IT environment. For small businesses with a limited number of devices, the assessment might take one day. For larger organizations, the process may extend over several days. However, with proper preparation and a clear understanding of Cyber Essentials requirements, the process can be streamlined efficiently.
Benefits Beyond Certification
While certification is the immediate goal, Cyber Essentials Plus offers long-term advantages. It demonstrates to clients, regulators, and partners that your organization has undergone independent validation of its cybersecurity practices. It also reduces your exposure to common threats, supports compliance efforts, and improves staff awareness. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus is a strategic step that complements your wider security and risk management plans.
Conclusion
The Cyber Essentials Plus assessment provides a higher level of cybersecurity assurance by validating that your organization’s defenses are not just documented—but functioning effectively. By preparing thoroughly, addressing weaknesses, and understanding the scope of the audit, you can confidently pursue Cyber Essentials Plus certification and strengthen your protection against today’s most common cyber threats. Embracing Cyber Essentials Plus reflects a serious, ongoing commitment to cybersecurity and gives your business a trusted edge in a competitive digital landscape.
