General Counsel

Jun 13, 2025

6 min. read

ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2: Key differences in compliance and certification

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ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2: Key differences in compliance and certification

The rise of cyber threats and regulatory demands has made information security a top priority for businesses worldwide. Organizations are under pressure to prove they can safeguard sensitive data, and two of the most recognized frameworks for demonstrating security controls are ISO 27001 and SOC 2. While both serve as a mark of trust, their objectives, implementation processes, and industry recognition vary significantly.

Companies often struggle to determine which framework aligns best with their needs. Some opt for one based on client expectations, while others pursue both for broader compliance coverage. Understanding the key differences between ISO 27001 and SOC 2 is essential for making an informed decision. This article breaks down their core distinctions, covering scope, certification processes, risk management approaches, and more.

Scope and applicability

One of the first distinctions we noticed was how broadly each framework applies. ISO 27001 is an internationally recognized standard for establishing an Information Security Management System (ISMS), making it suitable for organizations across various industries. SOC 2, developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), is designed specifically for service organizations that handle customer data, focusing on predefined Trust Service Criteria (TSC).

FeatureISO 27001SOC 2
ApplicabilityAny organization, regardless of industry or sizePrimarily for service providers handling customer data
Framework typeInternational standardU.S.-centric attestation
FocusComprehensive ISMSTrust Service Criteria (Security, Availability, etc.)
Client expectationRecognized globallyPrimarily requested by U.S. clients
Scope and applicability comparison

Certification vs. attestation

A critical distinction lies in how organizations demonstrate compliance. ISO 27001 requires organizations to undergo a formal certification process, where an accredited certification body audits the implementation of the ISMS. If the organization meets the standard’s requirements, they receive an internationally recognized certificate.

SOC 2, on the other hand, is an attestation rather than a certification. A licensed CPA firm evaluates the organization’s security controls against the chosen TSCs and provides a SOC 2 report. This report does not grant a certificate but serves as an assurance document that organizations share with clients.

FeatureISO 27001 certificationSOC 2 attestation
Audited byAccredited certification bodiesLicensed CPA firms
OutcomeCertification upon complianceAttestation report
ReassessmentAnnual surveillance audits, recertification every 3 yearsAnnual or periodic re-audits
Certification vs. attestation

Risk management approach

ISO 27001 enforces a structured, risk-based approach where organizations must identify, assess, and mitigate security risks within their ISMS. The standard mandates ongoing risk management, including documented risk treatment plans and continual improvement.

SOC 2 also considers risk, but the framework is more flexible, allowing organizations to define their controls based on selected TSCs. This means two companies with SOC 2 reports could have vastly different implementations, depending on their chosen security priorities.

FeatureISO 27001SOC 2
ApproachRisk-based ISMSFlexible, based on chosen TSCs
DocumentationMandatory risk treatment planNo prescribed risk management structure
AdaptabilityStandardized across organizationsTailored to each company’s security objectives
Risk management approach

Implementation timeline and cost

We also evaluated the time and financial investment required. ISO 27001 is a long-term commitment, typically taking 6-12 months depending on company size and readiness. The process includes policy development, risk assessment, employee training, and external audits, all of which add up in cost.

SOC 2 implementation varies. A Type I report, which evaluates control design at a single point in time, can be achieved in 3-6 months. A Type II report, which assesses control effectiveness over a period (usually 3-12 months), requires a longer time investment. Costs depend on the level of audit rigor and CPA firm selection.

FeatureISO 27001SOC 2
Time to achieve6-12 months3-6 months (Type I), 6-12 months (Type II)
Primary cost factorsPolicy development, external auditsControl implementation, CPA firm audits
Ongoing costAnnual surveillance auditsAnnual re-audits (optional, but recommended)
Implementation timeline and cost

Recognition and industry preference

One of our deciding factors was client and industry expectations. ISO 27001’s global recognition makes it a strong choice for organizations working internationally. Many enterprises require ISO 27001 certification before entering into business partnerships.

SOC 2 is highly regarded in the U.S., especially in industries where service providers manage sensitive customer data. Tech companies, SaaS providers, and cloud service vendors often undergo SOC 2 audits to reassure clients about their security posture.

FeatureISO 27001SOC 2
Geographical focusGlobalPrimarily U.S.
Preferred byEnterprises, multinational companiesSaaS, cloud, and technology providers
Mandatory inSome government and industry sectorsOften required by U.S. business clients
Recognition and industry preference

How CyberUpgrade helps you master ISO 27001 and SOC 2—without the overhead

Whether you’re weighing ISO 27001 for its global credibility or pursuing SOC 2 to win over U.S. clients, the path to compliance shouldn’t drain your team’s bandwidth. That’s where CyberUpgrade steps in. Our platform accelerates both frameworks through structured, guided workflows that simplify documentation, automate evidence collection, and minimize manual effort—so your team can stay focused on growth.

From risk assessments and internal audits to employee training and policy setup, we cover the heavy lifting across ISO 27001 and SOC 2 requirements. Real-time Slack and Teams integrations engage your staff where they already work, helping you close evidence gaps, track progress, and stay audit-ready year-round. Our platform adapts to both certification and attestation formats, providing full visibility across controls, timelines, and stakeholder responsibilities.

Best of all, you don’t have to go it alone. CyberUpgrade includes fractional CISO support to guide your decisions, align frameworks with business needs, and help you confidently navigate the nuances between ISO and SOC 2. Whether you pursue one or both, we’ll help you get there faster—with less stress and greater assurance.

Which one is right for your organization?

Ultimately, choosing between ISO 27001 and SOC 2 depends on your business goals, industry requirements, and client expectations. If your organization operates globally and needs a structured ISMS, ISO 27001 is the better fit. If you’re a service provider working primarily in the U.S. and need to prove security controls to customers, SOC 2 may be more relevant.

Organizations, including some of our clients, sometimes opt for both frameworks, leveraging ISO 27001 for internal governance and global credibility, while using SOC 2 to meet U.S. client demands. By understanding the key differences, your organization can make a well-informed decision and align its security strategy with industry best practices.

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General Counsel

He is regulatory compliance strategist with over a decade of experience guiding fintech and financial services firms through complex EU legislation. He specializes in operational resilience, cybersecurity frameworks, and third-party risk management. Nojus writes about emerging compliance trends and helps companies turn regulatory challenges into strategic advantages.
  • DORA compliance
  • EU regulations
  • Cybersecurity risk management
  • Non-compliance penalties
  • Third-party risk oversight
  • Incident reporting requirements
  • Financial services compliance

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