ISO 27001 vs. SOC 2: Which Is Right for Your Startup?
In today’s security-conscious market, technology startups need independent proof that they can protect customer data. Without it, enterprise deals can stall in lengthy procurement reviews. Two of the most recognised frameworks for demonstrating security maturity are ISO 27001 and SOC 2 — similar in goal, but different in approach. Choosing the right one early can accelerate your sales cycle and strengthen customer confidence.
What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 is the leading international standard for building and maintaining an Information Security Management System (ISMS).
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Comprehensive coverage: Addresses people, processes and technology, with 93 Annex A controls under the latest 2022 revision.
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Global recognition: Trusted across industries and jurisdictions, especially for organisations targeting multinational clients.
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Certification process: Requires an external audit to verify your ISMS meets all requirements, followed by annual surveillance audits to maintain certification.
Achieving ISO 27001 is often seen as a strategic investment — it not only proves security maturity but also enforces an ongoing improvement cycle.
What is SOC 2?
SOC 2 is a reporting framework created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
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Flexible approach: Rather than mandating specific controls, it evaluates your security programme against Trust Services Criteria — Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy.
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Tailored to your business: Auditors assess the controls you have in place to meet commitments to customers and stakeholders.
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Two report types:
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Type I: Evaluates the design of your controls at a specific point in time.
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Type II: Evaluates both design and operating effectiveness over a period (typically 3–12 months).
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SOC 2 reports are widely accepted in North America and are particularly valuable when selling to enterprise customers in the U.S.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | ISO 27001 | SOC 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope & Recognition | Global standard certifying your entire ISMS | Primarily U.S.-focused, flexible scope tailored to your services |
| Outcome | Pass/fail certification | Narrative report detailing control design and effectiveness |
| Audit Type | External certification audit with ongoing surveillance | Independent attestation report (Type I or II) |
| Timeframe | 3–6+ months for initial certification | Type I: weeks; Type II: 3–12 months |
| Best For | Companies with global ambitions and structured security processes | U.S.-focused startups needing quick proof of security controls |
Which Should You Choose?
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Early-stage, U.S. market focus: Start with SOC 2 Type I for quick credibility and procurement readiness.
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Global expansion plans: Prioritise ISO 27001 for its international recognition and structured approach.
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Long-term strategy: Many companies pursue both — SOC 2 to meet immediate sales requirements and ISO 27001 to establish a robust, scalable security framework.
How Atoro Can Help
Atoro has helped dozens of startups navigate SOC 2 and ISO 27001 from initial scoping through successful audit.
We provide:
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Hands-on ISMS development tailored to your business model.
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Gap analysis and remediation plans to meet framework requirements.
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Audit preparation and support, including liaising with your chosen auditor.
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Strategic guidance on which framework to pursue first, based on customer demands, compliance obligations, and growth trajectory.
Get Started Today
Whether you need a SOC 2 report, ISO 27001 certification, or both, Atoro can make the process faster, easier, and less resource-intensive.
