What is cyber essentials?
Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus are UK government-backed certification schemes that help organisations protect against common cyber threats. Our assessment and certification services guide you through the process, from gap analysis to remediation and final audit. Achieve certification, demonstrate commitment to security, and gain a competitive edge.
Here at A&O Corsaire, we provide end-to-end support, including pre-assessment, remediation guidance, and certification.
What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a government backed scheme that helps organisations of all sizes protect themselves from growing cybersecurity threats.
There are two levels of certification - Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus.
The scheme is run by IASME in association with the NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre). IASME are responsible for training and licensing Certification Bodies, such as A&O Corsaire in consulting services to help you achieve these certifications.
The right Cyber Essentials Package for you
We are proud to offer the right level of support for your business. Below are some of our most popular packages which will be customised to your specific needs and objectives.
Our Cyber Essentials certifications come with No hidden costs: A&O Corsaire always includes the full cost of Cyber Essentials certification in all of our packages. Certifications range from £200-£600 depending on the size of your organisation.
Cyber Essentials Guided
£50
/ MONTH



Cyber Essentials Plus
£145
/ MONTH





Cyber Essentials Plus Premium
£175
/ MONTH





*Free cyber insurance available to UK companies if the basic certification covers the entire organisation.
**Remote support is via telephone, email or video conferencing. Additional support time required is available at our standard rate.
The right Cyber Essentials Package for you
We are proud to offer the right level of support for your business. Below are some of our most popular packages which will be customised to your specific needs and objectives.Cyber Essentials
Self-assessment
- All registration fees and setup
- Cyber Essentials Certification
- 1 free retest
- Free £25k cyber insurance*
Cyber Essentials
Guided
- All registration fees and setup
- Pre-assessment
- Consultation with a cyber expert
- Cyber Essentials Certification
- 1 free retest
- Free £25k cyber insurance*
Cyber Essentials Plus
Advanced Protection
- All registration fees and setup
- Pre-assessment
- Consultation with a cyber expert
- Vulnerability scanning (up to 10 external ip addresses)
- Cyber Essentials Certification
- Cyber Essentials Plus Certification
- Free £25k cyber insurance*
*All prices quoted include the cost of the Cyber Essentials and / or Cyber Essentials Plus certification(s) as stipulated by IASME. Costs are dependent on organisation size, exclude VAT and are subject to a final quote. Free insurance is applicable to UK organisations if the basic certification covers the entire organisation - full details are available on the IASME website.
FAQs
When was Cyber Essentials launched?
The Cyber Essentials scheme was launched on 5th June 2014 and is developed and operated by National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
Is Cyber Essentials mandatory?
Whilst Cyber Essentials is not mandatory for all organisations, certification is required for certain Government, MOD and Healthcare contracts.
A&O Corsaire would always recommend organisations to have Cyber Essentials at the bare minimum to protect themselves from growing cyber threats. It is a relatively small investment compared to the potential consequences of an attack.
How often is Cyber Essentials Certification required?
Once issued, Cyber Essentials certificates have a 12-month expiry. It is recommended to renew your contract on an annual basis.
A&O Corsaire will send you a reminder ahead of your expiry so you don't need to worry about forgetting.
Can organisations outside of the UK gain Cyber Essentials certification?
Yes, overseas organisations are able to become Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certified.
Where can my organisation display the Cyber Essentials logo or certificate?
Organisations with Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certifications get added to a public register. The logo can be added to your website as well as your email signature.
How much does Cyber Essentials cost?
In January 2022 IASME adopted a tiered pricing structure for Cyber Essentials certification with prices ranging from £300 +VAT for 'Micro' (0-9 employees) organisations to £500 +VAT for 'Large' (250+ employees) organisations. Certification bodies will also charge for consultancy and guidance required.
The cost for Cyber Essentials Plus varies but is around £1900 +VAT.


