At Smooth IT, we’re proud to share that we’ve recently achieved Cyber Essentials Plus certification, a significant milestone in demonstrating our commitment to cybersecurity best practices. But this isn’t just a badge of honour for us. It’s a step that directly benefits our customers and serves as a clear signal of trust, responsibility, and resilience.
We’re also proud to have supported Pillow May in achieving Cyber Essentials Plus certification, helping them strengthen their cyber security posture and demonstrate their commitment to protecting client and business data. By working closely with the team throughout the process, Smooth IT provided the guidance, technical support, and expertise needed to successfully meet the rigorous certification requirements.
What is Cyber Essentials Plus?
Cyber Essentials Plus is the more advanced tier of the UK government-backed Cyber Essentials scheme. It includes all the baseline security controls of Cyber Essentials – such as secure configuration, access control, and malware protection – but takes things further by introducing a hands-on technical verification carried out by an independent assessor.
In short, Cyber Essentials Plus means we don’t just say we follow best practices – we’ve proven it.
Why is Cyber Essentials Plus Important?
For businesses of all sizes, especially SMEs, cyber threats are a growing concern. From phishing attacks to ransomware, even a minor security lapse can have costly consequences. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus demonstrates that your organisation takes security seriously – protecting both your internal data and the information of your clients, suppliers, and partners.
Here’s why that matters:
Builds Trust with Clients
In an age where cyber incidents dominate headlines, your customers need to know their data is safe in your hands. Cyber Essentials Plus provides that reassurance. It shows that you’ve invested in robust security controls and that you’re serious about safeguarding sensitive information.
Helps Win New Business
More and more organisations – especially those in the public sector or supply chains – now require their partners to be Cyber Essentials certified. Having the Plus certification can help your business stand out in tenders and contract opportunities, especially when security is a top priority.
Reduces the Risk of Cyber Attacks
Certification isn’t just about ticking boxes – it ensures that your defences are actively working. During the Cyber Essentials Plus assessment, systems are tested to ensure your security measures are not only in place but effective in the real world.
Demonstrates Leadership in IT
By achieving Cyber Essentials Plus ourselves, we at Smooth IT are leading by example. We want our clients to know that when we talk about secure IT systems, we’re not just offering advice – we’re living it. Our certification underpins the services we provide and reinforces our promise to deliver trustworthy, resilient IT support.
What’s Required to Achieve Cyber Essentials Plus Certification?
To pass Cyber Essentials Plus, businesses must demonstrate:
- Strong firewalls and internet gateways
- Secure configuration of devices and software
- Access control policies that limit who can access what
- Robust malware protection
- Patch management and software updates that are timely and consistent
These requirements are assessed not just on paper but through real-world tests and simulations to confirm everything is working as it should.
How Can Smooth IT Help You?
Smooth IT is ideally positioned to help your business achieve these high standards, we been through it ourselves. Whether you’re starting with Cyber Essentials or working towards the Plus level, we can:
- Initially audit your current systems and highlight gaps
- Support you through remediation steps
- Work with certification bodies to prepare your application
- Provide ongoing maintenance and support to keep your security posture strong long after certification
Ready to Raise Your Cyber Security Standards?
Cyber Essentials Plus is more than just a certificate, it’s a step toward greater resilience, stronger client relationships, and business growth. If you’re ready to start your journey toward certification or want to improve your current security measures, Smooth IT is here to help.
Author – Smooth IT Bristol