Layered Cyber Security: "A Swiss Cheese" Defence for Greater Manchester SMEs

Perhaps you're an owner of an SME, or an IT manager in Greater Manchester who's not confident in your companies cyber security setup; perhaps you're unsure what protections are already in place, or what you actually need - or worse, suspect that your IT provider isn't keeping you safe. In today's threat landscape, that's a big risk. Cyber crime costs are projected to hit £7 trillion by the end of 2025, and one breach can mean serious downtime, fines, or reputational damage.

The good news? You can significantly reduce this risk with a layered approach to cyber security - a strategy visualised by the Swiss Cheese Model.

Fig 1: Swiss Cheese Model of Cyber Defence

What is the Swiss Cheese Model?

Think of cyber security like a stack of Swiss cheese slices. Each slice - antivirus, firewalls, end-user training, Zero Trust - represents a layer of defence. The holes? Vulnerabilities. Alone, a slice won't stop every threat, but stack enough of them, and the gaps rarely line up. Together, they form a far more robust defence.

This model is also known as "defence in depth". It works on the idea that no single measure is perfect, especially as threats grow more sophisticated. That's why Apex Computing suggest a multi-layered approach to all our customers we support across Greater Manchester; and why we've built our comprehensive Cyber Security Sphere.

Here's how each slide strengthens your cyber protection...

1. Antivirus - Your Frontline Filter

Antivirus software helps detect and block known malware and ransomware. At Apex, we use trusted vendors to deliver advanced protection across devices, with tools that quarantine and neutralise malware fast. The basic slice protects your systems from everyday cyber nasties. But it's not enough on its own.

2. Firewall - Your Digital Gatekeeper

Firewalls act as your network's bouncer, controlling what comes in or goes out. Apex configures SonicWall next-gen firewalls that block malicious traffic, prevent unauthorised file types, and filter harmful websites. They also use geo-fencing, which restricts access based on geography - blocking traffic from regions where your business doesn't operate. It's a smart extra layer that limits exposure to overseas attacks.

3. End-User Training - Your Human Firewall

Technology can't fix everything - especially if a staff member clicks a malicious link. That's why Apex offers solutions that give your team ongoing cyber security awareness training and simulated phishing tests. One customer we support admitted that "even with top tools in place, staff awareness was the missing piece". Once trained, their team became "far more vigilant", and the business saw a noticeable drop in risky user behaviour.

4. Zero Trust Software - Trust Nothing, Verify Everything

Apex's Zero Trust software blocks anything that isn't explicitly allowed to run. Think of it as a security guard that doesn't just let unknown programmes in and figures it out later - it blocks them from launching at all. This approach is especially effective against ransomware and new malware strains that traditional antivirus might miss. Apex's Zero Trust package uses application whitelisting, ring-fencing, and device control, and it's built to complement other layers like antivirus and firewalls.

Why Layered Security Works: Real Client Results

David M Robinson Jewellers

This premium retailer faced disjointed security and untrained staff. Apex introduced a full suite of services through our Cyber Security Sphere, including firewalls, antivirus, Zero Trust, and tailored training. The result? A dramatic drop in incidents and full Cyber Essentials certification. The team reported feeling more engaged and secure across the board.

Wrigley Claydon Solicitors

Unhappy with a previous national IT provider, Wrigley Clayton turned to Apex for a more responsive, personal approach. Apex's 24/7/365 monitoring and layered protections meant issues were resolved quickly - sometimes before the firm even noticed them. As one partner put it, "I can trust the IT just works."

Manchester SME Turnaround

One local SME admitted they'd let IT slide - until it cost them. Apex stepped in, resolved the issue, then implemented antivirus, firewalls, and staff training. Now, their business runs securely and smoothly. The owner's advice? "Don't wait for disaster."

Ready to Plug the Gap?

If your business is relying on just one or two slices of 'cheese', it's time to stack up. Book your free cyber security assessment with Apex Computing to find out where your vulnerabilities lie - and how to fix them before a cyber criminal finds them first.

From firewalls to geo-blocking to Zero Trust to staff training, Apex Computing helps Greater Manchester SMEs build proper, layered defences. Because in cyber security, it's not about plugging one hole - it's about making sure no threat can get through the whole stack.