ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2: Differences and Similarities

• ISO 27001 is globally recognized; SOC 2 is primarily demanded in North America.
• ISO 27001 requires the implementation of a comprehensive Information Security Management System (ISMS) with 93 controls, while SOC 2 assesses specific internal controls based on selected Trust Service Criteria.
• ISO 27001 certification involves a two-stage audit process. It is valid for three years with annual surveillance audits, whereas SOC 2 involves attestation by a licensed CPA firm and requires yearly renewal audits.

ISO 27001 and SOC 2 are two prominent frameworks in the cybersecurity compliance landscape, each offering unique approaches to information security process management.

ISO 27001, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), focuses on establishing and maintaining an Information Security Management System (ISMS). This global standard ensures confidentiality, integrity, and data availability through 93 detailed controls. SOC 2, on the other hand, is a standard created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), emphasizing the effectiveness of specific internal controls based on five Trust Service Criteria: Security, Availability, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, and Privacy.

The decision between implementing ISO 27001 and SOC 2 largely depends on the organization’s target market and specific customer demands. For businesses operating globally or dealing with European and APAC clients, ISO 27001 is more appropriate due to its international recognition. In contrast, SOC 2 is favored by North American companies, especially in sectors like cloud services, SaaS, and IT services, where detailed reports on internal controls are crucial. While ISO 27001 involves a structured two-stage audit process with certification valid for three years, SOC 2 requires annual renewal audits and results in an attestation report rather than certification.

Despite their differences, ISO 27001 and SOC 2 share several similarities. Both frameworks are voluntary but internationally recognized and have significant control overlaps to protect sensitive information. They both require third-party validation through audits and emphasize ongoing maintenance and improvement to ensure continuous compliance. Organizations often find value in pursuing both standards as they grow, leveraging the overlap to streamline compliance processes. Tools can help manage these efforts by automating evidence collection and mapping standard controls across both frameworks, facilitating smoother dual compliance journeys.

Both standards require continuous monitoring, annual audits, and adherence to a risk management process. The choice between the two often depends on the organization’s target market and customer requirements.

Read ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2 Comparison #1 at Sprinto Compliance Managment platform
Read ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2 Comparison #2 at Auditboard audit, risk, ESG, and InfoSec management platform