Cyber threats are an ongoing concern, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. We recommend Cyber Essentials to all our clients to make sure they have a layer of protection in place.
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed certification scheme that offers a practical framework to help organisations protect themselves against the most common cyber threats. With the increasing reliance on technology and cloud-based services, obtaining Cyber Essentials certification is more crucial than ever.
Cyber Essentials provides a set of baseline security measures that help safeguard your business from cybercrime. There are two levels of certification available: Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. Both are designed to help businesses strengthen their cyber defences and demonstrate a commitment to data protection.
For businesses, achieving the accreditation is more than just a box-ticking exercise. It demonstrates to clients and stakeholders that you take cyber security seriously and are committed to protecting their data.
It can also open doors to new business opportunities, particularly when bidding for government or public sector contracts where the certification is often a prerequisite.
Implementing the Cyber Essentials framework often leads to improved internal processes and greater staff awareness around security best practices, helping reduce the risk of incidents such as phishing attacks or ransomware.
What’s changed in 2025
In 2025, the Cyber Essentials scheme underwent several important updates to reflect the changing cyber landscape. Multi-factor authentication is now required for all user accounts, including those used by third parties. Cloud service configurations must meet tighter security standards, and businesses are expected to manage patching more rigorously, ensuring that all critical and high-risk vulnerabilities are addressed within 14 days.
Additionally, the guidelines around remote working have been strengthened, acknowledging the continued rise in hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
At Shropshire Computers, we offer expert support to help your business achieve the certification. From conducting initial assessments and identifying gaps in your current setup to implementing the necessary security controls and guiding you through the application process, we are here every step of the way. We also provide ongoing support to help you stay compliant and secure well into the future.
Obtaining the certification not only enhances your security posture but also boosts your reputation, builds client trust, and strengthens your overall resilience.
Contact Shropshire Computers to find out how we can help you protect your business and achieve this valuable accreditation.
