Our team of experts can help you understand the requirements of the Cyber Essentials scheme, guide you through the Cyber Essentials assessment, and ensure you’re protected against common cyber security risks – all in line with standards set by the National Cyber Security Centre.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade to Cyber Essentials Plus, we are here to support you every step of the way. As a trusted service provider, we specialise in helping businesses like yours protect their IT systems with tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of your organisation.

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We provide a service to help businesses attain both Cyber Essentials certifications – Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. We offer advice, guidance, education, and skills to equip you and your team to meet the criteria confidently, helping you manage and mitigate cyber security risks effectively.

As your IT training provider, we highlight the actions you need to take to comply with the Cyber Essentials scheme. The process typically starts with a gap analysis, during which we identify areas where your security falls short of stipulations and provide practical support to facilitate the necessary upgrades.

Having completed Cyber Essentials assessments and questionnaires for hundreds of our clients, we’re confident in how we handle this administration. While we can’t sign the self-assessment declaration on your behalf, we can guide you through everything and help you complete and submit the questionnaire.

We can also support you through the technical audit process required for the Cyber Essentials Plus certification.

Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed scheme that equips organisations of all sizes to protect themselves against the most common cyber attacks. The vast majority of cyber threats can be defended by employing a few fundamental safeguards.

Cyber Essentials emphasises five basic security controls. The scheme ensures your organisation has deployed these controls and is committed to growing your cyber security skills.

Malware attacks

Essentials protects against malware attacks that can steal and corrupt data. Common malware includes viruses, worms, Trojans, and ransomware operations.

Phishing attacks

The certification helps you defend against phishing attempts. Phishing is where attackers deceive users into revealing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.

Unauthorised access

Cyber Essentials prioritises access control protocols to prevent unauthorised users from accessing sensitive data and systems.

Insider threats

By ensuring that access to data is restricted based on user roles and responsibilities, the scheme addresses potential insider threats (including malicious actions by disgruntled employees, contractors, or management).

Weak configuration vulnerabilities

Essentials encourages secure configuration of devices and software, reducing the likelihood of exploitation through known vulnerabilities.

Outdated software risks

Regular patch management is a core element of the scheme. Patching updates software security features, protecting you from hackers that target weaknesses found in outdated software.

Cyber crimes are increasing in volume and sophistication. To counter this growing threat, security has become a central pillar of our Managed IT services. We offer complete cyber security solutions for clients around the globe. Our cyber security expertise covers everything from network monitoring to detection and response.

We continually update our assets and tools to keep pace. When we assist you with any aspect of your security, you benefit from the latest technology and techniques.

"We know the right expert is always at the other end of the phone if we need them. The benefit of outsourcing means we have the ability to call on the right expertise at the right time, we can always draw on the skillset that we need."

Garry Collins

Administration and Finance Manager, St John

"The project was very well planned, exceptionally well executed and smoothly implemented. The team were wonderful, the project was delivered on time and on budget, and we received great support all the way through. I couldn’t fault it."

Andrew Everton

Executive Director, Saffery Trust

"They’ve become more than a service provider; they are a trusted partner. This partnership between Solent Mind and Zenzero allows us to adapt and evolve more quickly, leading to improved services and outcomes for our users."

Robert Wayman

FEE & Director, Solent Mind

Firewalls

Implementing robust firewalls across your enterprise and networks, ensuring default passwords are changed.

Secure configuration

Avoiding misconfigurations that can cause weak points for hackers to exploit.

Security update management

Ensuring your software has the latest security features to reduce vulnerabilities.

Malware protection

Installing and managing the anti-virus and anti-malware tools that defend against malware.

User access control

Ensuring system access is controlled and restricted based on user roles and responsibilities.

Our proactive IT support overcomes limited resources by reducing downtime, protecting continuity, and keeping teams productive.

How quickly can I get Cyber Essentials certified?

The scheme administrators, IASME, aim to get your assessment results back as soon as possible. If you pass your assessment, you can get your certification confirmed within 1-3 days.

Is Cyber Essentials required to bid for government contracts?

In some cases, Government departments may require you to be certified to bid for a contract. The department wants assurance that you have the Cyber Essentials technical controls in place and are security vigilant.

Requirements and exemptions vary between departments, so it’s always advisable to check with the relevant unit regarding their Cyber Essentials requirements.

How can people check if I am Cyber Essentials certified?

Anyone wanting to confirm you are certified can go to the Cyber Essentials Certificate search on the IASME website. They can enter your organisation’s name, and the official site will confirm that you are Cyber Essentials certified (provided your certificate has been issued in the last 12 months).

What is a Cyber Essentials partner?

A Cyber Essentials partner is an organisation or entity authorised to assist other organisations in obtaining Essentials certification. They provide support, advice, and technical services to ensure your company meets the necessary technical controls and requirements for certification.

Can any organisation apply for Cyber Essentials certification?

Yes, any entity can apply for Cyber Essentials certification regardless of size, type, or industry. Accredited organisations include businesses, charities, educational institutions, and governmental bodies. The goal of the scheme is to help all types of operations protect themselves against the most common cyber attacks and demonstrate their commitment to cyber security.

Most Cyber Essentials accredited businesses are UK-based, but even entities outside the UK can qualify.

What do I need to do to achieve Cyber Essentials certification?

To achieve Cyber Essentials certification, your organisation must meet the scheme’s requirements across five key controls that protect against the most common cyber threats. These include firewalls, secure configuration, user access control, malware protection, and patch management.

Our experienced cyber advisors offer tailored guidance throughout the process, helping you prepare thoroughly. We’ll assist you in identifying and addressing any gaps in your current setup and support you in completing the Cyber Essentials questionnaire.

Once you’re ready, the completed questionnaire is reviewed by an approved certification body. If your application meets all the required standards, you’ll have officially passed Cyber Essentials and will receive your certificate, demonstrating your commitment to cyber security.

What is involved in the certification process?

The certification process typically starts with a gap analysis, followed by completing the Cyber Essentials questionnaire to work toward your Cyber Essentials certificate. For those pursuing Cyber Essentials Plus, a technical audit is also required, which includes an external vulnerability scan to ensure your systems meet the necessary standards.

Zenzero’s cyber security experts will guide you throughout the entire journey – from preparation to submission and review – helping organisations protect themselves against common cyber threats through this government-backed certification scheme.

What is the difference between Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus?

The main difference between Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus is the level of assessment involved. Cyber Essentials is a self-assessed certification that confirms your organisation has put in place the basic cyber security measures to guard against common threats. It involves completing an online questionnaire, which is reviewed by an external assessor, but does not include any independent testing.

In contrast, Cyber Essentials Plus includes a more rigorous process: a qualified assessor carries out a hands-on technical audit to verify that the required controls are not only in place but are working effectively. This includes vulnerability scans and checks on systems and devices, providing a higher level of assurance.

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Cyber Essentials Accreditations

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