Cybersecurity isn’t just a big business problem anymore. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly in the crosshairs of cybercriminals — and unfortunately, many are still underprepared. In fact, research has found that successful cyberattacks would force 1 in 5 SMBs out of business, and yet most SMBs lack the resources or know-how to defend themselves.
SMB1001 is a new cybersecurity framework tailored to the needs and realities of small to mid-sized businesses to help them improve their cyber resilience without the complexity, cost, or overhead of traditional standards. We'll dive deep into this new framework with you in this blog.
In this blog, we'll cover:
- What is SMB1001:2025?
- Why Should SMBs Consider Getting Certified?
- How to Get Started with SMB1001 Certification?
- Turning Compliance into a Competitive Advantage
What is SMB1001:2025?
The SMB1001:2025 is a flagship cybersecurity standard developed by Dynamic Standards International (DSI) and designed specifically for SMBs. Unlike traditional frameworks, it’s designed to be agile and updated annually. SMB1001:2025 marks the very first edition of the standard, setting a modern and accessible baseline for SMB security.
Who are DSI?
Founded in 2021, Dynamic Standards International (DSI) is a privately held professional services organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., with an additional office in Canberra, Australia. DSI specializes in developing certifiable "dynamic standards" for cybersecurity, particularly aimed at small and medium-sized businesses.
SMB1001 offers a clear roadmap for improving SMBs' security posture — from basic protections (Bronze level) to advanced resilience (Diamond level). Each tier builds on the last, allowing businesses to progress at a pace that suits their resources, risk appetite, and ambitions.
Key features of SMB1001
- Five-Tier Framework: The standard comprises five levels—Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond—each building upon the previous to progressively strengthen an organization's cybersecurity measures. For instance, the Bronze level includes fundamental controls such as engaging technical support, installing firewalls and antivirus software, enabling automatic updates, routine password changes, and implementing data backup strategies.
- Alignment with International Standards: SMB1001 aligns with several global cybersecurity frameworks, including the Australian Essential Eight, UK Cyber Essentials, and the U.S. Department of Defense's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) .
- Certification Process: Organizations can achieve certification through self-assessment for the initial levels, while higher tiers require external audits. This structured approach allows SMBs to demonstrate their cybersecurity maturity to clients and partners.
- Globally Expanding Recognition: Originally developed in Australia, SMB1001 is expanding internationally, with certification available globally from January 2025. This expansion reflects the growing recognition for DSI's standards among SMBs worldwide.
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It’s Built for You — Not Big Enterprises
SMB1001 cuts through the red tape of enterprise-heavy standards and offers practical, actionable guidance. You won’t need a team of auditors or a six-figure security budget to get started. The Bronze and Silver levels, for example, focus on:
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- Having reliable IT support
- Using antivirus and firewalls
- Keeping systems updated
- Backing up data
- Encouraging strong password practices
It’s stuff you can implement right now — and get certified for doing so.
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Reduce Risk Without Reinventing the Wheel
SMB1001 is aligned with major international frameworks, like the Australian Essential Eight, UK Cyber Essentials, and the U.S. CMMC. That means adopting SMB1001 also helps you align with best practices globally — without starting from scratch.
It’s a smart first step toward broader compliance goals, such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, or NIST.
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It’s Scalable as You Grow
Whether you’re a five-person consultancy or a 200-person tech firm, SMB1001 grows with you. You can start with the Bronze level today, and work your way up to Silver, Gold, Platinum, and eventually Diamond, if and when you’re ready.
No pressure. No lock-in. Just clear progress.
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Global Recognition
Developed in Australia, SMB1001 is going global in 2025. That means your certification isn’t just local — it’s international. Whether you're servicing clients in Sydney or San Francisco, your security maturity will be recognized across borders.
Turning Compliance into a Competitive Advantage
Let’s face it — clients are getting more security-conscious. More of them are asking for evidence of cybersecurity efforts. Insurance providers are tightening requirements, and data privacy regulations aren’t slowing down.
Achieving SMB1001 standard isn’t just about reducing risk — it’s about unlocking opportunities. With a recognized cybersecurity certification in your toolkit, you can:
- Stand out with a competitive edge
- Earn the trust of larger clients and partners
- Demonstrate cyber readiness to insurance providers
- Show regulators you take your responsibilities seriously
How to Get Started with SMB1001 Certification?
Getting started is easier than you think! SMB1001 certification starts with a self-assessment for the Bronze and Silver levels. For most businesses, this takes just a few days and gives you a clear snapshot of where you stand — and where you can improve.
From there, you can apply for certification, proudly display your badge, and use it as a stepping stone to stronger protections and bigger opportunities.
Ready to Take Control of Your Cybersecurity?
You don’t have to be perfect, you just have to start because doing nothing is a real cybersecurity risk.
SMB1001 gives you a cost-effective, confidence-building way to take control of your cybersecurity journey — with a clear path to maturity, recognition, and peace of mind. Let SMB1001 be your first step in getting cyber secure.
How usecure Can Help You Get Certified
SMB1001 places a strong emphasis on security awareness and employee training — and that’s exactly where usecure fits in. Our Human Risk Management platform helps you satisfy all the key training requirements of the standard, from Bronze through Diamond. With automated phishing simulations, engaging microlearning modules, and user risk scoring, usecure doesn’t just help you tick a box — it strengthens your human firewall and reduces real-world risk across your business.
Let’s chat! We can help you prepare, apply, and progress with confidence. Watch a demo and kick-start your 14-day free trial now to discover how usecure can help you get certification-ready — quickly and efficiently!
