Cyber Essentials is an official UK government-backed certification scheme administered by IASME. It certifies that your organisation has implemented the five fundamental security controls that protect against 99% of cyber attacks.
While created in the UK, Cyber Essentials is recognised globally and is increasingly required by Irish businesses as a baseline security standard. It's particularly valued by government contractors, larger enterprises, and insurance providers.
The 5 Controls
Secure configuration
Removing unnecessary services and hardening systems
Access control
Restricting user permissions and multi-factor authentication
Malware protection
Antivirus and anti-malware across all devices
Patch management
Keeping software and systems up to date
Backup and recovery
Regular backups with tested restoration procedures
Who Needs It?
- Government contractors and suppliers
- Businesses bidding for large contracts
- Companies in regulated sectors
- Organisations seeking cyber insurance
- Any business wanting to demonstrate security commitment
How Does It Compare?
| Aspect | Cyber Essentials | Cyber Essentials Plus | CyFUN (Ireland) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | 5 fundamental controls | 5 controls + external testing | 6 functions, 20 practices |
| Assessment Type | Self-assessment | Self + external audit | Self-assessment |
| Cost (Ireland) | €800–€2,000 | €3,000–€8,000 | Free / €200–€500 |
| Timeline | 4–8 weeks | 8–12 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Validity | 3 years | 3 years | 1 year (self-assessed) |
| Recognition | Global (UK-backed) | Global (UK-backed) | Ireland-specific |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Cyber Essentials if I'm already GDPR compliant?
GDPR and Cyber Essentials address different requirements. GDPR is about data protection and privacy; Cyber Essentials is about technical security controls. Many businesses pursue both.
How much does Cyber Essentials cost in Ireland?
Typical costs range from €800–€2,000 depending on your organisation size and complexity. We provide a free assessment to give you an accurate quote.
Can I get Cyber Essentials if I'm a micro-business?
Yes. Cyber Essentials is designed for organisations of all sizes, from solo traders to large enterprises. The assessment scales to your complexity.
How long does the certificate last?
Cyber Essentials certificates are valid for 3 years. After that, you'll need to renew through a reassessment.
What if I fail the assessment?
There's no 'pass/fail' in Cyber Essentials. We identify gaps and work with you to close them. Once all controls are in place, you're certified.
Is Cyber Essentials recognised in Ireland?
Yes. While UK-backed, it's increasingly recognised by Irish government agencies, insurers, and large enterprises as a credible security baseline.