Cyber Essentials Certification for Accounting Firms
Protect your business, secure your clients’ data, and prove your commitment to cybersecurity.
PPCS helps Accounting Firms and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire achieve Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certification quickly, simply, and affordably.
Whether you’re a sole practitioner or a 50-person practice, Cyber Essentials is the first step in building your firm’s cyber resilience and meeting client compliance expectations.
What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification scheme created by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to help organisations protect themselves from common cyber threats.
The scheme focuses on practical, baseline controls — the essential security measures every business should have in place.
It covers 5 key areas shown below:
Why It Matters for Your Business
Cyber attacks are no longer rare — they’re a daily threat for UK businesses.
In fact, according to government statistics, over 30% of UK SMEs experience a cyber incident every year.
The impact can be severe:
- Lost revenue and productivity
- Compromised client data
- Reputational damage
- Potential GDPR penalties
It’s also mandatory for many government and local authority contracts, particularly where sensitive information is involved.
Cyber Essentials vs Cyber Essentials Plus
A self-assessment questionnaire reviewed by an external certification body.
It verifies your organisation meets the minimum technical security controls.
A higher level of certification that includes independent verification and testing.
Assessors check your systems, controls, and defences in real-world conditions.
| Feature | Cyber Essentials | Cyber Essentials Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Assessment | Self-assessment questionnaire | Independent hands-on technical audit |
| Verification | Verified by a certification body | Tested by a qualified external assessor |
| Testing Scope | Relies on organisation’s own declarations | Includes internal & external vulnerability testing |
| Assurance Level | Basic confidence | Higher level, verified assurance |
| Cost | Lower (from ~£300) | Higher (£1,500–£3,000 typical) |
| Time to Complete | 1–3 days (self-paced) | 5–10 days (includes assessor testing) |
| Ideal For | SMEs starting cybersecurity compliance | Organisations needing robust, verified security |
| Certification Validity | 12 months | 12 months |
| Recognised By | UK Government & NCSC | UK Government, NCSC, and larger clients |
The Benefits of Getting Certified
Win more contracts
Many UK public and private tenders require Cyber Essentials certification
Protect your reputation
Show clients and partners you take cybersecurity seriously.
Reduce cyber insurance premiums
Many insurers now offer discounts for certified companies.
Avoid data breaches
Implement robust, government-endorsed security practices.
Meet compliance requirements
Supports GDPR and ISO 27001 frameworks
Peace of mind
Know that your business is protected from the most common online attacks.
How Prime PC Services Helps You Achieve Certification
Our process is built for SMEs who want expert support without unnecessary jargon or complexity.
1
Initial Assessment
We begin with a short consultation to understand your current IT environment. Our cybersecurity consultant reviews your setup and identifies any gaps against the Cyber Essentials framework.
2
Remediation & Implementation
We help you apply practical security improvements: Updating routers and firewalls, Enforcing password and MFA policies, Configuring antivirus and endpoint protection, Applying security updates, Reviewing access controls, We can carry out the work for you or guide your internal IT team through it.
3
Certification
Once you’re ready, we work directly with a trusted certification body to submit your application. Our team ensures all questions are answered accurately and that your setup meets every requirement.
4
Ongoing Support
Certification isn’t the end — cybersecurity evolves constantly. We provide ongoing monitoring, patch management, and renewal reminders to keep you protected year-round.
Cyber Essentials and GDPR
Cyber Essentials complements GDPR compliance perfectly.
While GDPR focuses on data privacy and accountability, Cyber Essentials ensures that your technical controls are strong enough to prevent breaches.
Together, they create a complete framework for data protection — essential for accountants, legal firms, healthcare providers, and other data-driven organisations.
Common Misconceptions
Many SMEs assume Cyber Essentials is complicated or expensive.
In reality, it’s affordable, practical, and achievable with the right guidance.
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| “It’s only for large organisations.” | The scheme was designed specifically for SMEs. |
| “It’s too technical.” | PPCS explains everything in plain English — no jargon. |
| “We don’t handle sensitive data.” | Even a simple client database or email system holds valuable personal data. |
| “It’s just paperwork.” | Certification requires tangible security improvements that protect your business. |
Threats Cyber Essentails Protects Against
Cyber Essentials focuses on defending against the most common attack types that cause the majority of breaches in the UK
- Phishing
- Malware and ransomware
- Unpatched software vulnerabilities
- Weak passwords
- Insecure network devices
By addressing these, you eliminate the entry points for up to 80% of common cyber attacks.
Cyber Essentials for Different Sectors
Each sector has unique risks — we tailor our approach to match your environment.
Prime PC Services supports a wide range of organisations. Each sector has unique risks — we tailor our approach to match your environment.
Our Local Commitment
PPCS is based in Fleet, Hampshire, serving local communities in Farnborough, Aldershot, Farnham, Basingstoke, Haslemere, and the wider Surrey and Berkshire areas.
We believe cybersecurity should be accessible to every business — not just large enterprises with big IT budgets.
That’s why we offer affordable fixed-price packages, local support, and in-person consultations where needed.
Why Chose Prime PC Services?
- Experienced in both IT infrastructure and cybersecurity
- Local support — fast response when you need it
- Transparent pricing — no hidden costs
- Trusted by accountants across the South East
- End-to-end service — from assessment to certification and renewal
We don’t just help you tick boxes — we help you build a strong, secure, and compliant IT foundation.
Get Started Today
Don’t wait until a cyber incident exposes weaknesses in your systems.
Cyber Essentials certification is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your business.
Enquire Now For a Free Initial Assessment
Book your assessment with PPCS today and take the first step towards a safer, more secure organisation.
