NEWS & INSIGHTS
ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Fit
In today’s digital age, the reliance on technology has significantly increased the risks associated with cyberattacks and data breaches. To mitigate these risks and demonstrate a strong commitment to data protection, organisations are turning to recognised information security certifications. By achieving these certifications, businesses not only enhance their reputation but also reduce risk, improve operational efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and gain a competitive edge. This article delves into two of the most recognised information security standards—ISO 27001 and SOC 2—exploring their core benefits.
Both ISO 27001 and SOC 2 are globally respected due to their comprehensive frameworks. These standards provide organisations with structured methods for managing information security risks, ensuring compliance, and building stakeholder trust.
What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 is an international standard offering a robust framework for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). It provides guidelines for identifying, evaluating, and addressing information security risks. Applicable to organisations of all sizes and industries, ISO 27001 is versatile and widely adopted.
What is SOC 2?
SOC 2 (System and Organisation Controls 2) is a cybersecurity framework established by the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants). It focuses on safeguarding the secure storage and processing of client data, making it particularly popular among cloud service providers, tech companies, and service-oriented organisations.
Debating whether ISO 27001 or SOC 2 is the right choice for your organisation?
Both ISO 27001 and SOC 2 focus on protecting sensitive information by addressing its security, availability, integrity, and confidentiality. While there is considerable overlap between the two, they align closely in terms of required security controls—encompassing policies, processes, and technologies. Both frameworks require audits by certified, independent third parties, and achieving compliance demands significant effort and resources.
If your organisation lacks the capacity to pursue both standards, determining which one is a better fit is crucial. This decision should be based on a clear understanding of the key differences between ISO 27001 and SOC 2.
The table below provides a summary of the main differences between these two standards:
| ISO 27001 | SOC 2 | |
| Global Reach | International Standard | U.S. Standard |
| Certifying Body | Accredited ISO 27001 certification body | Licensed CPA firm |
| Duration | 6-24 months for initial certification; valid for 3 years with annual audits | 6-12 months for initial attestation; requires annual re-attestation |
| Industry | Applicable to all sizes and industries | Service organisations, commonly in tech |
| Difficulty to Achieve | High | Moderate |
| Purpose | Provides a framework for identifying, managing, and minimising security threats | Focuses on securely processing and storing client data |
ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2: Key Differences
While both ISO 27001 and SOC 2 are frameworks designed to ensure information security, they have distinct characteristics and cater to different needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key attributes that make ISO 27001 stand out compared to SOC 2:
– Scope and Focus
ISO 27001 covers all aspects of information security, mandating the implementation of all 93 controls in Annex A and continuous improvement of an ISMS. SOC 2 allows for a scope limited to one Trust Service Criteria, with Security being mandatory. Other criteria depend on the services provided, requiring 70 to 150 controls based on selected criteria.
– Certification vs Attestation
ISO 27001 audits are conducted by accredited certification bodies and result in an ISO 27001 certification, based on the effectiveness of the ISMS. A SOC 2 audit, performed by a licensed audit firm, attests to internal controls’ effectiveness and results in a SOC 2 report, not certification. It involves selecting trust service principles, testing controls and gathering evidence.
– Framework Structure and Audit
ISO 27001 is structured into clauses and annex with 93 high-level controls grouped into 4 parts: organisational, people, physical and technological. It uses the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle and involves a two-stage audit: Stage 1 (preliminary review) and Stage 2 (detailed evaluation). Certification is granted after Stage 2, with annual surveillance audits.
SOC 2 is based on 5 Trust Service Criteria with over 60 requirements. It results in a SOC 2 report, which can be Type 1 (evaluating control design at a point in time) or Type 2 (assessing design and operating effectiveness over 6-12 months).
– Timelines
ISO 27001 takes 6-24 months, with a 3-year certification and annual surveillance audits. SOC 2 compliance takes 6-12 months, with annual renewals.
– Granularity of Report
ISO 27001 reports provide a high-level overview without detailing specific non-conformities. SOC 2 reports are detailed, including auditor opinions, management assertions, system descriptions, effective controls and tests.
Use cases for versatility and benefits
ISO 27001
- Large enterprises: Establish a global information security management system.
- Government and public sector: Meet regulatory requirements and safeguard citizen data.
- Manufacturing and industrial companies: Protect intellectual property and operational technology.
- Financial institutions: Manage risk, protect financial data and comply with international standards.
- Consulting and professional services: Protect client data and enhance reputation for data security.
SOC 2
- Cloud service providers: Assure clients of secure, confidential data handling.
- Technology and SaaS companies: Demonstrate strong data security practices.
- Financial services: Show stringent controls and security protocols for customer data and transactions.
- Healthcare providers: Ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Third-party vendors: Build trust and validate security practices for handling sensitive data.
How can QuadPrime help you?
Quadprime is a leading cybersecurity consulting firm that specialises in helping organisations achieve ISO 27001 and SOC2 certification. Our team of experienced and certified professionals can provide you with the guidance, support and expertise you need to successfully implement and maintain an ISO 27001-compliant information security management system (ISMS) and SOC 2 attestation.
Quadprime’s services include:
- Gap analysis: Identifying the gaps between your current security practices and the requirements of ISO 27001 and SOC2.
- ISMS implementation: Developing and implementing an ISMS that meets the requirements of the standards.
- Certification support: Assisting you with the certification process, including preparation for audits and addressing any non-conformities.
- Ongoing maintenance: Providing ongoing support to help you maintain your ISO 27001 and SOC2 certification.
Why choose Quadprime?
- Proven Track Record: Our team has a proven track record of successfully guiding organisations through compliance and various certifications
- In-Depth Knowledge: Our team possesses in-depth knowledge of the security regulatory environment ensuring that our approach aligns with your organisation’s need and any regulatory requirements.
- Tailored frameworks: one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in information security. Our experts will meticulously assess your organisation’s specific requirements to develop such an information security framework that is proportional to your size, context and risk profile and which aligns with your goals and objectives.
We are not just service providers. We’re security professionals, committed to elevating your information security posture and protecting what matters most.
