
2 minute read
Introduction to SOC 2
When you hand your data over to a company, you want to know it’s safe. That’s exactly what SOC 2 compliance is designed to prove. Created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), SOC 2 reports show that a business is following strict standards for security, availability, confidentiality, processing integrity, and privacy.
What is SOC 2 Type I?
Think of SOC 2 Type I as a snapshot. It looks at a company’s security controls at a single point in time and asks: Are these controls designed correctly to keep data safe?This is especially useful for organizations that are new to compliance. It reassures clients that the foundations are in place, even if the business hasn’t yet been tested over the long run.
What is SOC 2 Type II?
Now imagine a video instead of a snapshot. That’s SOC 2 Type II. Instead of checking controls once, it evaluates them over a period of three to twelve months. This shows not just that security measures exist, but that they actually work day in and day out.For enterprise clients, Type II carries more weight because it demonstrates consistent, real-world reliability.
Choosing the Right Path
If your company is just starting its compliance journey, SOC 2 Type I is a great first step. Once you’re ready to prove long-term commitment, SOC 2 Type II will showcase your ability to maintain security over time.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, SOC 2 isn’t just about checklists — it’s about trust. Achieving compliance shows your clients and partners that protecting their data isn’t an afterthought, it’s a priority. And in today’s digital world, that trust can make all the difference.