The risks from phishing emails, ransomware, and data breaches are real. Every business, no matter the size, needs to protect itself. Cyber Essentials Plus is the enhanced version of the UK Government-backed scheme that not only checks your cyber security on paper but also tests it in practice.
As Shropshire’s only NCSC Assured Service Provider, Start Tech is the perfect partner to guide you through this process and make sure your systems are secure.
What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a certification programme created to help organisations defend against the most common online threats. It focuses on core security areas such as using strong passwords, ensuring software is up to date, controlling who can access your systems, and making sure devices are set up securely.
There are two levels. Cyber Essentials involves a self-assessment that you complete with guidance and sign off, while Cyber Essentials Plus includes a hands-on technical audit by a qualified assessor who actively tests your systems. This means you are not just saying you are secure, you are proving it.
Why Cyber Essentials Plus Matters for Your Business
Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus builds confidence with clients and partners because it shows you take data protection seriously.
Many contracts now require this certification as a minimum standard, and having it can open doors to new opportunities. It also lowers the risk of a successful cyber attack by addressing vulnerabilities before criminals can exploit them.
Some insurance providers may offer better rates or require Cyber Essentials Plus before issuing cover. In addition, the certification demonstrates compliance with regulations like the UK’s GDPR, which requires organisations to keep personal data safe.
The Certification Process
When you work with Start Tech to achieve Cyber Essentials Plus, you can expect a clear and supportive process.
We guide you through the process with practical steps, policy templates, and experienced advice tailored to how your business actually works. Whether it’s your first certification or a renewal, we make it easier, clearer and more valuable to your organisation.
We begin with a consultation where we examine your current IT setup and highlight any areas that need improvement. Next, we help you fix those gaps, whether that means updating outdated software, adjusting security settings, or improving access control so only the right people can use certain systems.
After this, we carry out a technical audit where our certified team simulates real cyber attacks to ensure your systems can withstand them.
Finally, once you have passed, we provide ongoing support to help you stay compliant and secure over the long term.
Why Choose Start Tech?
Start Tech is the only NCSC Assured Service Provider in Shropshire, which means our methods meet the highest government-approved standards. We have deep expertise in cyber security, AI, and scalable IT solutions that grow with your business, and we have won multiple national awards for security excellence.
We combine technical skill with a professional service that makes complex security easy to understand.
Cyber Essentials Plus is not just about passing an assessment; it is about building lasting resilience into your business.
With the cost of cyber attacks to British companies now estimated at around £44 billion in lost revenue over the past five years, investing in this certification is a smart step to protect your systems, your data, and your reputation.
By working with Start Tech, you can be confident that the process will be straightforward, thorough, and effective.
If you are ready to strengthen your cyber defences, get in touch and take the first step towards Cyber Essentials Plus certification.
