Service Organization Control - Build trust with customers through verified security and privacy controls
Get SOC 2 CertifiedDemonstrate robust security controls for customer data protection
Provide independent verification of your security practices
Meet security requirements for large enterprise customers
Differentiate your service with recognized security certification
SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) is an auditing standard developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) for service organizations that store, process, or transmit customer data. It evaluates the design and effectiveness of security controls relevant to the five Trust Service Criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy.
Protection of system resources against unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification, or destruction. This criterion is mandatory for all SOC 2 audits.
System is available for operation and use as committed or agreed. Includes monitoring, incident response, and business continuity planning.
System processing is complete, valid, accurate, timely, and authorized. Ensures data quality and proper system functioning.
Information designated as confidential is protected as committed or agreed. Covers encryption, access controls, and NDAs.
Personal information is collected, used, retained, disclosed, and disposed of in conformity with privacy commitments and applicable privacy laws.
Understanding the two types of SOC 2 reports
Evaluates whether controls are suitably designed at a specific point in time
Evaluates how controls operate over a period (typically 3-12 months)
Essential for technology service providers and cloud companies
Cloud-based software providers storing and processing customer data
IaaS, PaaS providers, and data center operators
API providers, fintech platforms, and technology service providers
Analytics platforms, data warehouses, and backup services
Health information systems, telemedicine platforms, and medical SaaS
Payment processors, accounting software, and financial management tools
Achieve SOC 2 compliance in 7 structured steps
Define audit scope, select Trust Service Criteria, and create project plan
Evaluate current security controls and identify gaps
Implement required controls, policies, and procedures
Create system description, policies, and control evidence
Operate controls for 3-12 months (Type II only)
Independent CPA firm conducts SOC 2 examination
Receive SOC 2 report to share with customers and prospects
Why leading tech companies choose SOC 2
Accelerate sales cycles by meeting enterprise security requirements upfront
Stand out from competitors with verified security practices
Identify and mitigate security risks before they become incidents
Reduce security questionnaire burden with standardized report
Strengthen internal security posture and operational controls
Prepare foundation for GDPR, HIPAA, and other compliance requirements
SOC 2 Type I typically takes 3-4 months. SOC 2 Type II requires 3-12 months for the observation period plus audit time. Timeline depends on your current security maturity, chosen criteria, and resource availability.
SOC 2 is a US-based audit report focused on service organizations and is preferred by American companies. ISO 27001 is an international certification focused on information security management. Both are valuable, and many organizations pursue both certifications.
Costs vary widely based on organization size, complexity, and scope. Expect consulting fees for readiness assessment and remediation, plus audit fees from the CPA firm. Total costs typically range from $20,000 to $100,000+ for the first year.
No, you can go directly to Type II. However, some organizations choose Type I first as a stepping stone to demonstrate design effectiveness while working toward Type II, which is more comprehensive and valuable to customers.
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