"Cybersecurity assessment" covers a wide range of services at very different price points - from a basic configuration review to a full penetration test. Here's what actually drives the cost, and what's realistic to expect at each level.
The Different Types, and Why They're Priced Differently
Basic Security Review
A review of your current controls - MFA coverage, patch status, backup configuration, endpoint protection - against good practice, usually delivered as a written report with prioritised findings. For a small-to-medium business, expect roughly $800-$2,500, depending on environment size and complexity.
Framework-Aligned Assessment
A more structured review benchmarked against a specific framework like the Essential Eight or NIST CSF, often required for insurance renewals or client due diligence. Typically $2,000-$6,000, scaling with business size and how many systems are in scope. See our guides on the Essential Eight and NIST CSF for what each framework actually covers.
Vulnerability Scanning
Automated scanning of your network and systems for known vulnerabilities, generally the most affordable option at $500-$1,500 for a small business, though it identifies less than a manual review or penetration test would.
Penetration Testing
A far more involved, hands-on process where testers actively attempt to exploit vulnerabilities, typically $5,000-$15,000+ depending on scope (internal network, external, web application, or a combination). See our guide on penetration testing vs vulnerability scanning for which one your business actually needs.
What Drives Cost Within Each Category
- Number of devices, users, and systems in scope
- Whether cloud environments (Microsoft 365, Azure) are included alongside on-premise infrastructure
- Depth of testing - a documentation review is cheaper than active testing of controls
- Compliance framework requirements, if the assessment needs to map to a specific standard
- Whether a written remediation plan and follow-up review are included
Where to Start If You're Not Sure What You Need
For most small businesses that have never had a formal assessment, a basic security review is the sensible starting point - it's affordable, identifies the highest-priority gaps, and gives you a clear picture of where you actually stand before considering anything more involved. Our free IT health check covers much of this ground at no cost, as a starting point before deciding whether a deeper paid assessment is warranted.
Is It Worth the Cost?
Compare the assessment cost against the potential cost of an undetected gap - a single ransomware incident or data breach typically costs a small business far more than any assessment, in downtime alone, before counting recovery costs, lost clients, or compliance penalties. See our guide on the real cost of IT downtime for how that comparison plays out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a free IT health check the same as a paid cybersecurity assessment?
Not quite - a free health check typically covers a broad review of your IT environment including some security basics, while a dedicated paid cybersecurity assessment goes deeper into specific risk areas, often benchmarked against a framework like the Essential Eight or NIST CSF.
Do I need a penetration test, or is a security assessment enough?
For most small businesses, a security assessment (reviewing configuration, policies, and controls) covers the practical risk far more cost-effectively than a penetration test (actively attempting to exploit vulnerabilities). Penetration testing tends to matter more once you're handling significant sensitive data or facing specific compliance or insurance requirements.
How often should a cybersecurity assessment be repeated?
Annually is a reasonable baseline for most SMBs, with a lighter interim review if there's been a significant change - new systems, a office move, or a notable increase in staff numbers. Some industries with regulatory obligations may need it more frequently.
Does the assessment cost include fixing what's found?
Usually not - the assessment itself is a diagnostic exercise, with remediation quoted and carried out separately based on what's found. Some providers bundle a basic remediation of quick, low-cost fixes into the assessment itself, so it's worth clarifying upfront.
We'll help you work out exactly what level of assessment your business actually needs, and give you a clear, itemised quote.
Cybersecurity Services →Not sure what level of assessment you need?
Call 0433 087 091 - start with a free IT health check, and we'll advise honestly on whether a deeper paid assessment is worth it.
Book a Free IT Health CheckFor related reading, see our guides to what an IT security audit covers and penetration testing vs vulnerability scanning.