Home The Essential Eight



In today’s fast-paced and increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape, organisations of all sizes face growing threats to their networks, systems, and data. To remain resilient against these risks, it is critical to implement structured and proven mitigation strategies such as the Australian Cyber Security Centre's Essential Eight framework, which provides a practical baseline for enhancing security posture, safeguarding critical assets, and reducing the likelihood of cyber incidents.

Originally developed by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD). The Essential Eight is a set of key cybersecurity strategies designed to guide organisations in safeguarding their internet-connected information technology systems. These guidelines offer a proven framework for protecting sensitive data and strengthening your organisation's cyber resilience.

The Essential Eight mitigation strategies are:

1. Patch Applications
2. Patch Operating Systems
3. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
4. Restrict Administrative Privileges
5. Control Applications
6. Restrict Microsoft Office Macros
7. Harden User Applications
8. Perform Regular Backups

These strategies are based on the ASD's extensive experience in responding to cyber incidents and conducting penetration testing. However, the Essential Eight is not specifically tailored for enterprise or operational technology networks, where different strategies might be more suitable to address the unique cyber threats found in those environments.

In addition to being a foundational cybersecurity framework for businesses, the Essential Eight is also a key component of Australia's broader cybersecurity strategy. The Australian Government's Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) encourages organisations to adopt these strategies as part of their commitment to reducing cyber risks and improving overall resilience.

The Essential Eight is particularly relevant for organisations seeking to align with national cybersecurity standards and compliance frameworks. By implementing these strategies, businesses not only protect themselves from common cyber threats but also demonstrate a proactive approach to cybersecurity that is in line with best practices recommended by Australian authorities.

For more information see: The ACSC website


For best advice on how to integrate the Essential Eight into your organisation's cybersecurity plan, contact us below or call 1300 466 400 to speak with one of our representatives.