03 Nov What is ISO Certification?
Any organisation that stores sensitive data or uses an Information Security Management System (ISMS) must ensure the safety and protection of that data. ISO 27001 certification shows a commitment to this protection and auditing software paves the way to achieving it. First, we’ll explain more about the certification, then we’ll address how to get ISO certified.
What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 is an international standard against which an organisation measures its ability to protect information and manage data security. It also provides requirements for the establishment and maintenance of an Information Security Management System. Complying with this standard allows companies to identify any gaps that make the protection and security of data vulnerable. Companies that align with this system offer better protection of sensitive data to the benefit of their employees, customers, and other stakeholders.
After meeting the standard’s requirements, organisations must complete an audit before becoming ISO certified. ISO 27001 Gap Analysis helps them prepare for that audit while auditing software streamlines the process.
What ISO 27001 Certification Does
ISO Certification puts certain demands on a company’s security posture. It evaluates the design and implementation of current systems and controls. Additionally, it addresses all security risks, threats, and weaknesses. It also provides a management process for meeting security needs.
ISO 27001 Gap Analysis
ISO 27001 Gap Analysis, sometimes referred to as a Compliance Assessment or Pre-Assessment, precedes ISO certification. It is an evaluation of a company’s security, information, and networks, as well as resources such as hardware, software, policies, and people. The assessment offers an overview of the current security posture of a given company. Gap Analysis is also used as a guide for gaining ISO 27001 certification.
If high-level security for IT infrastructure is the goal, it’s important to know how to conduct a Gap Analysis as well as how to get ISO certified. This allows the organisation to implement and maintain a compliant Information Security Management System.
Benefits of ISO 27001
ISO certification provides many benefits to organisations. Improved security is chief among them, as is the trust built between a business and its stakeholders. In addition to providing a roadmap to ISO 27001 certification, other benefits include:
- Overview of the current security posture against the requirements of ISO 27001
- Assessment of ISMS parameters across all business functions
- Clarity on the needs of the ISMS and what controls need implementing
- Estimation of budgetary needs and resources needed for ISO 27001 certification
- Translation of cybersecurity into business procedures, policies, and framework
- Timeline for gaining ISO 27001 certification
How to Get ISO Certified
The process for receiving ISO certification begins with an ISO 27001 Gap Analysis. This assessment occurs after stage 1 of the audit process. It identifies threats and weaknesses in the ISMS and addresses them before stage 2 begins.
Gap Analysis is how companies get ISO certified. It provides an assessment and documentation of an organisation’s security processes and procedures. A comparison of existing information against ISO 27001 standard requirements provides a guide for improvement. Once issues get addressed, ISO certification is the next step.
Learn More About ISO Certification
Outside audits can get expensive, however, it is possible to conduct a self-Gap Analysis of ISO 27001. For example, SafeWrite designs software that helps businesses improve their Information Security Management Systems. This allows them to better align with ISO 27001. To learn more about the ISO certification process, book a demo today.
