Cyber Essentials Support Services in Southampton
Achieve Cyber Essentials certification with expert support from IT Support Southampton. Our experienced team guides your business through the full assessment process, ensuring all government-backed security standards are met.
We review your IT systems, user access, firewalls, malware protection, and software patching, identifying vulnerabilities and implementing solutions to protect your business from common cyber threats. With our hands-on support, your organisation can confidently meet the Cyber Essentials framework requirements, strengthen security, and demonstrate compliance to clients and stakeholders.
What the Cyber Essentials Assessment Involves
The Cyber Essentials assessment is a thorough review of your IT infrastructure, policies, and security practices to ensure your business is protected against common cyber threats. Our team evaluates:
Firewalls & Network Security
Confirming networks are secure and protected from unauthorised access.
Device Configuration
Checking that systems are properly configured and software is up-to-date.
User Access Management
Ensuring sensitive data is accessible only to authorised personnel.
Malware Protection
Reviewing measures to prevent, detect, and respond to malware threats.
Patch Management
Verifying that all systems and software receive regular security updates.
Email & Phishing Protection
Assessing safeguards to reduce the risk of email-based attacks.
Backup & Data Recovery Measures
Ensuring critical data is backed up and can be restored in case of disruption.
Physical Security
Confirming devices and equipment are stored securely to prevent unauthorised access.
If your business does not meet the criteria in any area, we provide end-to-end support to implement the necessary improvements, ensuring you meet all Cyber Essentials requirements before submission.
Cyber Essentials Certification Levels: Standard vs Plus
Cyber Essentials
The Foundational Level
Cyber Essentials is the entry-level certification designed to help organisations implement essential security controls to protect against common cyber threats. It focuses on five key areas:
Assessment Requirements:
-
A self-assessment questionnaire is completed by the organisation.
-
Answers are reviewed by an external certification body to ensure compliance.
Benefits:
-
Affordable: Cost-effective option for smaller businesses or those new to cyber security.
-
Baseline Protection: Provides robust defence against 80% of common cyber threats.
-
Government Contracts: Meets the minimum requirement for some public sector contracts.
Cyber Essentials Plus
Advanced Assurance
Cyber Essentials Plus enhances Cyber Essentials with an independent technical audit, offering greater assurance and suitability for larger organisations or those managing sensitive data.
Assessment Requirements:
-
A hands-on technical audit conducted by a certified assessor.
-
Verification of controls, including vulnerability scans and simulated attacks.
-
In-depth testing of devices, including workstations, servers, and mobile devices.
Benefits:
-
Enhanced Assurance: Validates that security measures are effectively implemented and functioning.
-
Increased Trust: Demonstrates a commitment to cyber security to clients, stakeholders, and regulators.
-
Risk Reduction: Offers deeper insights into potential vulnerabilities, ensuring stronger protection.
Choosing the Right Cyber Essentials Certification
The right certification depends on your organisation’s size, data sensitivity, and security requirements. Cyber Essentials provides a strong starting point for smaller businesses, while Cyber Essentials Plus offers deeper assurance through independent testing, ideal for those handling sensitive data or seeking greater credibility.
Both certifications show your commitment to cybersecurity, building client trust and meeting recognised industry standards.
Ready to pass your Cyber Essentials assessment? Get in touch today!
Fully Managed Cyber Essentials Certification
We Handle Everything for You
Achieve Cyber Essentials certification quickly and stress-free with our fully managed service. Our Southampton-based experts handle the entire process, from assessment to submission, ensuring your business stays secure, compliant, and protected against cyber threats.
Save Time
We manage every step of the certification so you can focus on running your business.
Peace of Mind
Your cybersecurity is handled by trusted professionals with proven expertise.
Guaranteed Pass
We review every area of your business to ensure all criteria are fully met to achieve certification.

