Cyber Essentials, IASME and the Five Pillars of Cyber Security

Cyber security is no longer just an IT concern. For SMEs across North Wales, it is a core part of protecting your business, your data and your reputation.

At Boyns Systems, we support small and medium sized businesses through Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus, helping you meet the required standards and strengthen your cyber security posture. As an IASME verified provider, we guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring compliance without unnecessary complexity.

What Are Cyber Essentials and IASME?

Cyber Essentials is a UK Government-backed cyber security scheme designed to help businesses protect themselves against the most common online threats. It is delivered through IASME, the official accreditation body.

The scheme has two certification levels:

• Cyber Essentials – a verified self-assessment

• Cyber Essentials Plus – includes an independent technical audit to confirm controls are working effectively

Certification demonstrates that your business takes cyber security seriously and meets recognised national standards.

The Five Pillars of Cyber Essentials Explained

Cyber Essentials is built around five key security controls. Together, these form a strong baseline of protection for SMEs.

1. Firewalls and Internet Gateways

Firewalls act as the first line of defence, controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic. Proper configuration helps prevent unauthorised access to your systems.

2. Secure Configuration

Devices, servers and software must be set up securely. This includes removing unnecessary software, disabling unused features and applying secure default settings to reduce vulnerabilities.

3. User Access Control

Only the right people should have access to sensitive systems and data. User privileges must be limited, managed correctly and reviewed regularly to prevent misuse or compromise.

4. Malware Protection

Anti-virus and anti-malware tools help detect, block and remove malicious software that could damage systems or steal data.

5. Patch Management

Keeping operating systems and applications up to date ensures known security flaws are fixed before attackers can exploit them.

Boyns Systems works with your business to assess, implement and maintain each of these controls correctly.

Why Cyber Essentials Matters for SMEs in North Wales

Many cyber attacks target small and medium sized businesses, not large corporations. SMEs are often seen as easier targets due to weaker security controls.

Cyber Essentials helps your business:

• Reduce the risk of cyber attacks and data breaches

• Protect customer and business data

• Demonstrate compliance when bidding for contracts

• Meet supply chain and insurance requirements

• Build trust with customers and partners

For many organisations, Cyber Essentials certification is now a minimum requirement to work with public sector bodies and larger companies.

Cyber Essentials Plus for Added Assurance

Cyber Essentials Plus builds on the standard certification by adding an independent, hands-on technical audit. This verifies that security controls are not only documented but are actively working in practice.

This level is ideal for businesses handling sensitive data or those wanting higher assurance and credibility.

Why Choose Boyns Systems?

Boyns Systems supports North Wales businesses with practical, clear cyber security guidance tailored to SMEs.

We provide:

• Support with Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus

• IASME-aligned assessments and guidance

• Clear explanations without technical jargon

• Ongoing cyber security advice and support

Our goal is to make cyber security achievable, effective and relevant for real businesses.

Speak to Boyns Systems About Cyber Security

If you are an SME in North Wales looking to improve your cyber security or achieve Cyber Essentials certification, Boyns Systems can help. We will assess your current setup, guide you through the five pillars and support you towards certification with confidence.

Get in touch with Boyns Systems today to discuss Cyber Essentials, IASME certification and practical cyber security for your business.