ISO 27001 vs Cyber Essentials: How Are They Different?

Online security is one of the biggest considerations for businesses when shaping their network and infrastructure strategy, especially in the current age where threats are unfortunately ever-changing. This greater need for robust cyber security has seen the formation of some notable frameworks in the UK and beyond, such as the ISO 27001 standard and the Cyber Essentials scheme. In this article, we’ll compare these two important frameworks, assessing how they differ to help your business make the most informed decisions about your cyber security.
What Is ISO 27001?
Starting off on a global scale, ISO 27001 is an international standard that covers the governance aspects of data security, implementing rigorous policies and processes to establish, implement, and maintain information security management systems (ISMS).
There are 93 security controls involved with ISO 27001 (previously, there were 114), known as “Annex A”, demonstrating a holistic approach to cyber security that encompasses 4 categories:
- People
- Processes
- Organisations
- Technology
This standard is widely recognised worldwide and can be applied to any business, regardless of size or industry; although, due to its complexity and cost, it is often preferred by large or highly regulated industries. Achieving ISO 27001 certification demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards of information security, whilst gaining the trust of customers and partners.
What Is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification scheme designed to help businesses protect themselves from the most common cyber threats, addressing the most technical aspects of securing sensitive data.
It focuses on five basic security controls that are considered fundamental to safeguarding a business against cyber attacks, including:
- Firewalls and Internet Gateways: Protecting devices and networks from external threats.
- Secure Configuration: Ensuring systems are securely configured to reduce vulnerabilities.
- User Access Control: Managing user access to systems to ensure only authorised individuals can access sensitive data.
- Malware Protection: Implementing measures to detect and protect against malicious software.
- Security Update Management: Regularly updating software to fix vulnerabilities.
Cyber Essentials is aimed at businesses of all sizes, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing a cost-effective and straightforward way to improve their cyber security posture through self-assessment. For those who want an extra layer of security, such as businesses seeking government contracts, the Cyber Essentials Plus scheme offers a more advanced approach which includes an independent, hands-on technical assessment by an accredited auditor to verify that the five basic security controls are effectively implemented.
What Are the Key Differences Between ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials?
Aspect | ISO 27001 | Cyber Essentials |
---|---|---|
Scope |
A comprehensive framework for managing information security across the whole business. |
Focuses on basic cyber security controls to protect the business against common threats. |
Standard Type |
Risk-based standard. |
Technical compliance-based standard. |
Applicability |
Applies to any kind of business information, regardless of whether it is physically or digitally stored. |
Applies only to digital information and programs stored across business networks, computers, and servers. |
Certification Process |
Involves a detailed audit process by an accredited certification body, with regular audits. |
Requires a self-assessment and a review by an accredited body. Cyber Essentials Plus includes an independent technical assessment. |
Cost |
More expensive due to the higher complexity of the framework and ongoing audits. Pricing starts from £6,000 for one employee but can rise upwards of £33,000 for larger teams. |
Lower costs involved, making it more accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Pricing starts from £320 + VAT for businesses with 0-9 employees. |
Structure |
Covers a wide range of security practices, including risk management, policies, and continuous improvement of Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). |
Focuses on five key security controls:
|
Business Size |
Best for larger businesses with complex security needs, but can be used across most business sizes and industries. |
Ideal for small and medium-sized businesses, or those seeking more basic cyber security protection. |
Renewal Frequency |
Requires a renewal every 3 years, with annual audits. |
Renewed annually. |
Which Certification Should You Choose?
Although both certifications provide a strong level of protection, several factors might influence which is best for your business’s needs. Let’s take a look at some scenarios where each certification may be more appropriate:
When to Choose ISO 27001…
- Large Businesses: ISO 27001 is ideal for larger companies with complex information security needs. The standard provides a comprehensive framework that ensures robust data protection across multiple systems, processes, and departments.
- Highly Regulated Industries: If you operate in an industry that is subject to strict regulatory requirements, such as healthcare, ISO 27001 can help you meet compliance standards and demonstrate due diligence in managing sensitive data.
- International Operations: For businesses that operate globally or are looking to expand internationally, ISO 27001 offers the recognition and credibility needed to assure clients, partners, and regulators that your information security practices are “world-class”.
- Long-Term Security Strategy: ISO 27001 is a strategic, long-term commitment to information security. Those seeking to improve and manage risk continuously should consider ISO 27001, as it emphasises ongoing monitoring, assessment, and improvements to security policies and controls.
When to Choose Cyber Essentials…
- Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs): Cyber Essentials is a perfect fit for small and medium-sized enterprises looking for an entry-level certification to bolster cyber security, helping businesses with limited resources put basic security measures in place without the complexity (and costs) of larger frameworks.
- Limited Budgets or Resources: If your business lacks the time, budget, or internal expertise to implement an extensive security management system, Cyber Essentials offers a more cost-effective approach that ensures basic cyber security is in place.
- Basic Protection Against Common Threats: Cyber Essentials is sufficient for those who are primarily concerned with defending against common cyber threats, such as phishing, malware, and ransomware. If your business needs to address basic security issues, this certification is an excellent starting point.
- UK-Focused Business: Cyber Essentials is particularly relevant for UK-based businesses or those seeking to work with government agencies, as many public sector contracts now require Cyber Essentials certification as part of their procurement process.
Can ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials Work Together?
Yes - they certainly can! While they serve different purposes, integrating both these certifications can strengthen any business’s approach to cyber security, providing multiple layers of protection against common and more advanced threats.
Businesses seeking ISO 27001 accreditation can incorporate the five controls required by Cyber Essentials into their ISMS, aligning them with the broader risk management strategies outlined in Annex A. This provides the perfect blend of practical, day-to-day defences provided by Cyber Essentials, whilst taking a comprehensive approach towards the protection of your business’s physical and digital data.
If you’re wondering whether you actually need to extend from the protection provided by Cyber Essentials, ask yourself whether reaching your business goals could be hampered by a lack of advanced measures (such as if you want to expand internationally). Cyber Essentials provides more than enough protection for a large portion of businesses in the UK, especially for those who class themselves as SMEs, so paying out for ISO 27001 may not be necessary just yet. If you’re unsure where your business stands, consult a member of our team for further advice.
Do I Need Cyber Essentials if I Have ISO 27001?
Despite providing a more holistic approach to cyber security, you may still need Cyber Essentials - even if you have ISO 27001. Whilst ISO 27001 provides a much more detailed security framework, Cyber Essentials is a requirement for many government contracts in the UK, so you should look to add this to your cyber security arsenal if you want to work with government-regulated organisations!
What Are the Benefits of Cyber Security Frameworks?
There is a large range of benefits involved with cyber security frameworks, most notably:
- Improved Approach to Security: Frameworks provide structured guidelines to protect systems, data, and networks against rising cyber threats.
- Risk Management: Cyber security frameworks enable businesses to identify, assess, and mitigate potential vulnerabilities systematically.
- Incident Preparedness: They can improve a business’s ability to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber attacks.
- Customer Confidence: Certifications like ISO 27001 or Cyber Essentials demonstrate a commitment to security, and build trust with clients and partners.
- Regulatory Compliance: They help businesses meet legal and industry-specific requirements, avoiding penalties and ensuring trustworthiness across the board.
Stay Vigilant Against Cyber Threats Through Our Cyber Essentials Consultancy
If you’re considering applying for Cyber Essentials certification, our experts at ReformIT are here to guide you through each step through our Cyber Essentials consultancy service. Read our Cyber Essentials checklist (featuring application guidance), or contact a member of our team to discuss your business’s current cyber security posture.