Because cybersecurity compliance shouldn’t require a computer science degree.
If you own or manage an Irish SME, you’ve probably heard the new buzzwords: NIS2 Directive, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and now CyFun. They sound technical—and they are—but at their core they boil down to one very practical question:
Can you prove that your business is doing the right things to keep customers, cash‑flow and reputation safe online?
This guide is the straightforward NIS2 compliance checklist for Irish SMEs you’ve been looking for. We’ll demystify CyFun, show how it connects to NIS2 and NIST, and outline practical next steps you can take today to strengthen security and satisfy auditors.
What Is CyFun (Cyber Fundamentals)?
CyFun is a voluntary cybersecurity certification Ireland’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has adopted to help organisations organise and evidence their security controls. Think of it as a structured checklist—built on international best practice—that you can hand to regulators, clients or insurers to prove you’re serious about cyber risk management.
Why it matters to you
- Optional but influential. Certification is voluntary, yet it’s a persuasive badge of due diligence for regulators, insurers and supply‑chain partners.
- European credibility. Ireland co‑owns the scheme with Belgium, giving the framework immediate EU recognition.
- Built on NIST CSF. CyFun maps directly to the globally respected NIST Cybersecurity Framework, so the work you do here supports multiple standards and is future‑proof for upcoming NIST 2.0 updates.
How CyFun Helps You Meet NIS2 Obligations
The EU’s NIS2 Directive dramatically raises the bar for cybersecurity across “essential” and “important” entities. Ireland is finalising local legislation now, but enforcement is inevitable.
CyFun provides a ready‑made structure that maps your existing controls to NIS2’s risk‑management measures. In other words, it’s a shortcut to demonstrate compliance without hiring an army of consultants.
Plain‑English tip: If your policies align with CyFun, you’ll tick most of the boxes auditors look for under NIS2.
The Six Core Functions (Borrowed From NIST CSF)
Govern – Set strategy, policy and risk appetite.
Identify – Know your assets, data and weak points.
Protect – Put controls in place to keep attackers out.
Detect – Spot suspicious activity quickly.
Respond – Have an incident‑response plan ready.
Recover – Get back to business fast after an incident.
If you can honestly say “Yes, we do that” for each function, you’re well on your way to both CyFun and NIS2 compliance.
Which Maturity Level Fits Your Business?
LevelBest forTypical RequirementsBasicMicro & small businesses with lower riskSecure passwords, regular updates, basic backup.ImportantMedium‑sized firms or those handling sensitive data24/7 monitoring, staff training, documented processes.EssentialCritical infrastructure & high‑impact entitiesIndependent certification, advanced response, continual improvement.
CyFun’s free online selection tool helps you choose the right tier, keeping the process proportionate to your size and risk.
Five Immediate Actions for Busy Owners
Run the free CyFun self‑assessment—it takes about 30 minutes.
Map existing policies to the six functions to uncover gaps.
Fix the affordable basics first—patching, MFA, off‑site backups.
Document what you already do; written evidence beats verbal assurances.
Engage a trusted IT security partner when you’re ready for formal certification.
These steps not only boost security but also satisfy due‑diligence requirements that insurers and larger customers increasingly demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CyFun compulsory for NIS2 compliance?
No. But it’s a strong and credible route that regulators recognise.
What’s the cost?
Self‑assessment is free; certification fees depend on your level. Think of it like ISO 27001 but tailored to Irish SMEs.
We already follow ISO 27001—do we need CyFun too?
ISO remains valid. CyFun offers a streamlined, NIS2‑focused option that may save time and paperwork.
When will the next version arrive?
NCSC expects CyFun 2.0 in Q3 2025. Start now; the changes will be incremental.
The Bottom Line
- CyFun = Practical roadmap + credibility boost.
- NIS2 = Incoming legal obligation.
- NIST CSF = International best practice baked in.
Put them together and you have a future‑proof way to protect your revenue, reputation and regulatory standing—without drowning in jargon.
Ready to Get Started?
Book a free 30‑minute Cyber Fundamentals readiness call with our team. We’ll guide you through the self‑assessment, highlight quick wins, and map a smooth path to NIS2 compliance.