Beginner's Guide | Essential 8

A Beginner's Guide to the Essential Eight: Australia's Key Cyber Security Tips

Cyber threats are becoming more common and more serious. To help protect Australian businesses and government agencies, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), part of the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), has created a simple set of key strategies known as the Essential Eight.

These eight steps are like basic safety measures for your computer systems. Following them makes it much harder for hackers to break in. They're recommended for all Australian organisations as the minimum level of cyber protection.

What Is the Essential Eight?

The Essential Eight is a list of eight things organisations can do to reduce the chance of cyberattacks. These strategies are especially designed for systems connected to the internet (like your office network), and following them can save a lot of time, money, and stress later.

Here's what the Essential Eight includes:

The Eight Essential Cybersecurity Strategies

1. Only Run Safe Software (Application Control)
   Make sure that only approved programs can run on your computers. This blocks harmful software from being installed or used.
2. Keep Software Up to Date (Patch Applications)
   Regularly update programs like web browsers and document readers. Hackers often look for out-of-date software to sneak in. Critical updates should be done within two days.
3. Block Dangerous Email Attachments (Configure Macros)
   Stop risky Microsoft Office features called "macros" from running, especially if they come from the internet. These are often used to trick people into launching malware.
4. Secure Your Web Browsers (User Application Hardening)
   Turn off or remove old features (like Internet Explorer 11) and plug-ins in web browsers that hackers often target.
5. Limit Admin Access (Restrict Admin Privileges)
   Only give special admin access to people who absolutely need it. The more people who have full control, the bigger the risk if one account is hacked.
6. Update Your Computer's Operating System (Patch OS)
   Like your apps, your computer's core system also needs regular updates. Don't use old, unsupported systems, they're easy targets for hackers.
7. Use Multiple Ways to Log In (Multifactor Authentication – MFA)
   Make users confirm their identity in two or more ways (e.g., password + code sent to a phone). This makes it harder for attackers to get in, even if they have a password.
8. Back Up Your Data (Regular Backups)
   Save copies of your important data often, and keep those backups safe. Test restoring them to make sure they work. This is your safety net if something goes wrong.

What Are Maturity Levels?

The Essential Eight Maturity Model helps organisations see how well they're protected. It has four levels:

• Level 0 – Not Protected: Cyber controls are weak or missing. The system is wide open to threats.
• Level 1 – Basic Protection: Some basic defences are in place, good for stopping everyday threats.
• Level 2 – Intermediate Protection: Stronger controls are used consistently to stop more advanced attackers.
• Level 3 – Advanced Protection: Security is well-managed, regularly checked, and can stop even skilled hackers.

Most small to medium businesses should aim for Level 1 or 2. Larger organisations and those at higher risk (like power or transport providers) should aim for Level 3.

How to Get Started

Start by working towards Level 1 for each of the eight strategies. Once those are working well, move up to Level 2. Make sure each step is properly checked and working; if even one part is not effective, you haven't reached the next level.

Why It's Important

Many cyberattacks in Australia could have been prevented by following the Essential Eight. Ignoring these steps can lead to:

• Stolen or lost data
• Business downtime
• Costly repairs
• Lost trust and business
• Legal and financial trouble

By following these eight strategies, you protect your systems from threats like phishing (fake emails), ransomware (locking up your files), and hackers stealing control of your systems.

Who Needs to Follow This?

All non-corporate government departments in Australia must follow Maturity Level 2. Some state governments also require it or ask organisations to report on their progress.

Even if it's not mandatory for your business, following the Essential Eight is strongly recommended, especially if you work with government or large organisations.

Extra Help and Tools

The ASD and ACSC offer tools and guides to help you implement the Essential Eight. Microsoft also provides templates and advice to help you manage these security settings if you use Microsoft 365.

Tools like SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) and EDR/XDR (threat detection software) can help you spot unusual activity on your systems quickly.

What's New?

The Essential Eight is regularly updated to stay ahead of new threats. Recent changes include:

• Stronger rules for admin access
• More protections for online services and customer data
• Extra logging to detect attacks
• Updated lists of harmful software to block

One Last Thought: Don't Forget People

Some experts believe a ninth strategy should be added: cyber awareness training for staff. Technology helps, but people also need to know how to spot threats and avoid risky behaviour.

In Summary

Cybersecurity doesn't have to be overwhelming. The Essential Eight is a simple, practical starting point to protect your organisation. Whether you're running a small business or a government agency, these eight steps are your first line of defence.

Want to dive deeper or get started? At Logi-Tech we're here to help. We offer Essential Eight Reviews, Cybersecurity Implementation, and ongoing support, so you can always feel at ease.

Please reach out today!