If you’ve searched for Cyber Essentials Bristol, you’ve likely found two options: Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. Same name. Different experience.
Both give your business a badge to prove you’re secure, but only one puts that claim to the test.
Here’s the no-nonsense breakdown, so you know which one fits your business.
✅ Cyber Essentials: straightforward protection
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed certification that confirms you’ve got the basics in place:
- Firewalls
- Secure settings
- User access control
- Malware protection
- Software updates (patching)
You fill in a self-assessment questionnaire. A certifying body checks it. Job done.
It’s ideal for:
- Meeting basic compliance requirements
- Showing your clients you care about data security
- Getting started with cyber security without overcomplicating things
🔒 Cyber Essentials Plus: everything above, plus real-world checks
Cyber Essentials Plus takes the same controls and goes further — by testing them.
You still complete the questionnaire, but an independent assessor verifies that everything is working as it should. This includes:
- Vulnerability scans
- Configuration reviews
- Hands-on testing of your devices and systems
It gives clients, insurers, and suppliers peace of mind that you’re not just ticking boxes — you’re actively protecting your business.
Cyber Essentials vs Cyber Essentials Plus: quick comparison
| Feature | Cyber Essentials | Cyber Essentials Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment | Self-assessment questionnaire | Questionnaire + technical audit |
| Verification | Reviewed by certifying body | Hands-on technical testing |
| Assurance level | Basic | High |
| Cost & effort | Lower | Higher |
Why Bristol businesses need to act
Cyber threats don’t just hit the big names. Whether you’re a law firm in Clifton or a marketing agency near Temple Meads, if you’ve got data, you’re a target.
Certification gives you confidence, protects your clients, and helps you meet compliance. It can also give you an edge when bidding for contracts.
Why choose Cloud & More?
We’re not just here to help you pass a questionnaire. We make sure your cyber security actually works, now and long term.
- We guide you through the entire process
- We check your systems and flag any weak spots
- We fix what needs fixing, before the audit
- We manage everything with minimal disruption
“For us, Cyber Essentials isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about building trust. Clients need to know we’re looking out for them, not just their IT.”
— Adam Whatford, Cloud & More
Key takeaways
- Cyber Essentials shows you’ve got the basics covered.
- Cyber Essentials Plus proves it through testing.
- Both improve your security, credibility, and compliance position.
- Cloud & More makes the whole process simple, practical, and stress-free.
Get certified, the right way
Whether you’re ready to get started or still weighing up your options, we’re happy to talk it through.
We’re Cloud & More — your go-to IT company in Bristol.
FAQs: Cyber Essentials for Bristol businesses
1. Do I need Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus?
It depends on your business. If you’re looking for a simple, affordable way to show clients you take cyber security seriously, Cyber Essentials is a great start. If you work with sensitive data, bid for government contracts, or want stronger reassurance, Cyber Essentials Plus is the better choice.
2. Is Cyber Essentials a legal requirement?
No, but some contracts (especially in government or healthcare) require it. Even when it’s not mandatory, many insurers and clients expect it as a minimum standard. Think of it as proof you’re not leaving your business open to easy attacks.
3. How long does it take to get certified?
Cyber Essentials can be completed in a few days if your systems are already up to scratch. Cyber Essentials Plus takes longer due to the technical audit, but we’ll manage the process to avoid any disruptions.
4. What’s the cost difference between Cyber Essentials and Plus?
Cyber Essentials is more affordable and involves less time. Cyber Essentials Plus costs more due to the in-depth testing, but it offers much stronger reassurance, especially if you’re dealing with strict compliance or client requirements. We’ll always be transparent about the costs upfront.
5. Can Cloud & More help me prepare for the audit?
100% yes. We’ll check your systems before the official assessment, fix any gaps, and support you through the whole process. Our goal isn’t just to get you the certificate, it’s to make sure you’re genuinely secure.
See what our clients have to say
Ready to protect your business and prove it?
Whether you’re just starting out or need that next level of assurance, we’ll guide you through Cyber Essentials or Plus with zero stress and total clarity.
Let’s get it sorted properly, together.
