It’s no secret that cyber threats are becoming increasingly advanced in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. To stay secure, businesses need a repertoire of cyber security solutions to protect their systems and identify and respond to any potential threats. Two prominent options for strengthening cyber security are Cyber Essentials and Managed Detection and Response (MDR).
While these approaches serve different purposes, they complement each other to create a more comprehensive security strategy. But is it necessary to invest in both? In this blog, we’ll cover the roles each solution plays and how they can work together.
What are Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials, as detailed in our recent blog, is a UK government-backed certification scheme designed to safeguard businesses against the most common cyber threats. It focuses on five key areas:
- Firewalls: Protecting the network from unauthorised access.
- Secure configuration: Ensuring systems are set up securely.
- Access control: Restricting access to sensitive data and systems.
- Malware protection: Defending against malicious software.
- Patch management: Keeping software up to date.
By achieving Cyber Essentials certification, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to cyber security and ensure compliance with industry standards. This, in turn, lays the groundwork for a strong cyber security posture, building trust with their customers.
What is MDR?
As highlighted in a previous blog, Managed Detection and Response services go beyond basic cyber security measures. It’s an advanced, 24/7 service that proactively monitors your systems, detects security threats, and responds to incidents in real-time. With MDR, you gain access to:
- Threat detection: Identifies and blocks threats in real-time to prevent damage.
- Incident response: Rapid containment and remediation of incidents to minimise impact.
- 24/7 monitoring: Round-the-clock protection from evolving threats.
- Advanced reporting: Detailed insights to track risks and plan effectively.
Unlike Cyber Essentials, MDR focuses on detecting and responding to threats that slip past traditional defences. It’s a dynamic approach that adapts to emerging cyber risks.
How they differ from each other
The primary difference between both security solutions is their focus. Cyber Essentials is a certification designed to prevent cyber attacks by addressing common vulnerabilities, while MDR is a managed service that actively monitors and mitigates evolving threats in real time. Cyber Essentials establishes a strong baseline, whereas MDR provides continuous, expert-led protection against advanced attacks.
Cyber Essentials is more static, with a checklist-based framework, while MDR is dynamic, relying on real-time insights and human expertise. Cyber Essentials ensures compliance, while MDR offers ongoing threat management.
Do you need both?
While Cyber Essentials and MDR address different aspects of cyber security, they are most effective when combined, offering peace of mind in an unpredictable threat landscape. Cyber Essentials is an excellent starting point for businesses seeking foundational security and compliance. However, as your business grows or handles more sensitive data, MDR becomes vital for real-time protection.
Strengthen your Cyber Security with Gemini
At Gemini, we understand the importance of a layered cyber security strategy. That’s why we offer a wide range of IT security services to help businesses stay secure at every level. Whether you’re looking to establish a strong security foundation or enhance your threat detection capabilities, our cyber security experts are here to help. Contact us today to explore how Cyber Essentials and MDR can work together to protect your business.