Professional IT support
We've solved the same IT headaches you're dealing with now, for hundreds of other Wiltshire businesses. Whether it's helpdesk support, network management, cloud solutions, cybersecurity or strategic IT consulting, get in touch and let's fix it.
Learn more ->IT Support
Outsourced IT Support Packages & Pricing Remote IT Support Proactive IT Support Switching Providers Pricing Estimator
Fully managed IT services
The technology behind your business should be invisible - until you need it. We manage it so it stays that way.
Learn more ->
Cyber Security services
Cybersecurity isn't a luxury item - it's the intelligent way to protect your business, your data, and your future.
Learn more ->Featured Posts
Smart Tips to Stop Money From Being Stolen Through Online Banking
Read more ->
Combating Credential Theft
Read more ->Frequently Asked Questions
The questions we get asked the most, answered straight in plain English.
Learn more ->Featured Posts
Governing Generative AI
Read more ->
Three Power Automate workflows to cut costs
Read more ->Our Vision
Our vision is to make the organisations we partner with the very best they can be.
Learn more ->Featured Posts
Managed IT services and why onboarding fees are a separate cost
Read more ->
Do you handle new starters and leavers for my business?
Read more ->Request free IT audit
Cyber Essentials Plus Certification in Wiltshire & the South West
Cyber Essentials Plus takes everything covered by standard Cyber Essentials and backs it up with independent, hands-on technical verification.
Rather than relying on a self-assessment questionnaire alone, an external assessor physically audits your systems, testing your network's real-world resilience against remote threats, not just checking that the right policies are written down and declared. Sound Networks guides you through the entire process, from initial self-assessment through to the final remote audit. We work to ensure vulnerabilities are resolved before the external audit takes place, giving you the best possible chance of passing first time.
Why choose Cyber Essentials Plus over standard Cyber Essentials?
Standard Cyber Essentials confirms the right security controls are documented and in place. Cyber Essentials Plus goes further, independently verifying those controls are really working under real conditions. It's the right choice if:
- You handle sensitive client or government data
- A specific contract, tender, or client requires Plus-level assurance rather than standard certification
- You want the strongest possible evidence of your security stance when quoting for security-conscious clients
- You've previously passed standard Cyber Essentials and are ready to step up your assurance level
Our Cyber Essentials Plus audit process
Getting Plus certified isn't a single test, it's a structured process designed to catch and fix issues before they can cause a failed audit:
Initial scan
Carried out when we start working with you, to establish your current security baseline.
Second scan
One week before your audit, to check progress and catch any regressions.
Third vulnerability scan
Within 24 hours of the audit itself, for a final real-time check.
Remote audit
Of your PCs, network security, and client device configuration, carried out by a qualified external assessor.
Follow-up scan
Before the reassessment process begins, to keep your certification and protection current year over year.
What's involved in Cyber Essentials Plus certification?
Third-party external technical audit
A qualified external assessor evaluates your IT systems and configurations directly, confirming they meet the Cyber Essentials Plus technical standard, not just that your policies exist on paper.
Internal and external vulnerability scans
We run scans designed to expose potential weaknesses in your defences before an attacker, or the auditor finds them, giving us the chance to patch issues in advance.
A straightforward route to certification
Our consultants carry out a complete review of your IT systems and policies against the Cyber Essentials Plus standard, then provide a clear report on any areas that need attention before the audit. Contact us for more information. We handle the technical groundwork so you can stay focused on running your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Cyber Essentials Plus different from standard Cyber Essentials?
Standard Cyber Essentials is based on a self-assessment questionnaire, verified by an external assessor. Cyber Essentials Plus adds a hands-on technical audit and vulnerability scans, so your controls are independently tested rather than just documented.
How long does Cyber Essentials Plus certification take?
It typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from start to finish, covering the initial scan, remediation of any issues, pre-audit scanning, and the final remote audit.
What happens if I fail the technical audit?
You'll receive a clear breakdown of what needs fixing. Because we run scans at several points before the audit itself, most issues are identified and resolved well before the formal assessment takes place.
Do I need Cyber Essentials Plus specifically, or is standard Cyber Essentials enough?
It depends on your contracts and clients. Some government tenders and security-conscious clients specifically require Plus-level assurance rather than standard certification. If you're unsure which applies to you, we can help you check.
How often does Cyber Essentials Plus need to be renewed?
Like standard Cyber Essentials, Plus certification is renewed annually, including a fresh round of scans and audit.
Can I go straight to Cyber Essentials Plus without doing standard Cyber Essentials first?
No, you will first need to qualify and gain standard Cyber Essentials certification before advancing to the Plus standard.
Tell us what's slowing your team down - we'll show you how to fix it
Our mission is to provide technology guidance, expertise and support to enable our customers to grow their business.
Start Here
One email a month. Real IT tips, not filler, unsubscribe any time.
By Subscribing you are agreeing to receive our IT updates newsletter released each Month. You will not receive anything else.
