Achieving ISO 27001 certification is a significant undertaking that requires a structured approach and a strong commitment to information security. This internationally recognized standard provides a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). By following the ISO 27001 guidelines, organizations can effectively manage their information security risks, protect their valuable data assets, and demonstrate their dedication to security best practices to customers, partners, and regulatory bodies. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of earning your ISO 27001 certification.
Before we get started, get familiar with the ISO 27001 audit terms and definitions you should know.
The 15 Steps to Becoming ISO 27001 Certified
Gaining ISO 27001 certification involves a comprehensive process that demands careful planning, execution, and ongoing maintenance. While the journey may seem daunting, breaking it down into a series of well-defined steps can help organizations navigate the path to certification with greater clarity and confidence. These 15 steps outline the key stages involved in achieving and maintaining ISO 27001 compliance:
1. Appoint an ISO 27001 team
Designate a team of individuals from various departments within your organization to oversee and manage the ISO 27001 certification process. This team should include representatives from IT, operations, legal, human resources, and other relevant areas. Assign clear roles and responsibilities to each team member, such as a project manager, information security lead, and process owners.
2. Build your Information Security Management System (ISMS)
Develop a comprehensive Information Security Management System (ISMS) that outlines how your organization will manage and protect its information assets. The ISMS should be tailored to your organization’s specific needs, risks, and regulatory requirements. It should include policies, procedures, and controls to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.
3. Create and publish ISMS policies, documents, and records
Formalize and document the policies, processes, and procedures that govern your ISMS. These should cover areas such as access control, risk management, incident response, business continuity, and compliance. Ensure that these policies and documents are reviewed, approved, and communicated to all relevant stakeholders within your organization.
4. Conduct a risk assessment
Identify and evaluate the potential risks to your organization’s information assets, including data, systems, and processes. This risk assessment should consider threats, vulnerabilities, and the potential impact of security incidents. Use the results of this assessment to prioritize and implement appropriate risk mitigation strategies and controls.
5. Complete a Statement of Applicability (SoA) document
The Statement of Applicability (SoA) is a document that outlines the specific controls from the ISO 27001 standard that your organization has chosen to implement, as well as justifications for any controls that have been excluded. The SoA serves as a roadmap for your ISMS and ensures that you address all relevant security requirements.
6. Implement ISMS policies and controls
Put into action the security policies, processes, and controls defined in your ISMS. This may involve implementing technical controls (e.g., firewalls, encryption), operational controls (e.g., access management, incident response), and organizational controls (e.g., security awareness training, supplier management).
7. Train team members on ISO 27001
Provide comprehensive training and awareness programs to ensure that all employees and relevant stakeholders understand the ISMS policies, their roles and responsibilities, and the importance of information security within your organization.
8. Gather documentation and evidence
Collect and organize all relevant documentation and evidence demonstrating your organization’s compliance with the ISO 27001 standard. This may include policy documents, risk assessment reports, training records, audit logs, and other supporting materials.
9. Undergo an internal audit
Conduct an internal audit of your ISMS to assess its effectiveness and identify any potential gaps or areas for improvement. This internal audit should be performed by qualified personnel who are independent of the ISMS implementation process.
10. Undergo management review and approval
Present the results of the internal audit and the overall ISMS to your organization’s top management for review and approval. This step ensures that the ISMS aligns with your organization’s strategic objectives and has the necessary support and commitment from leadership.
11. Undergo a Stage 1 audit
The Stage 1 audit, also known as a documentation review, is conducted by an external certification body. During this audit, the auditor will review your ISMS documentation, including policies, procedures, and the Statement of Applicability, to assess your organization’s readiness for the Stage 2 audit.
12. Get a Stage 2 audit
The Stage 2 audit is a more comprehensive and in-depth review of your organization’s ISMS implementation. The auditor will conduct interviews, observe processes, and review evidence to ensure that your ISMS is effectively implemented and maintained in accordance with the ISO 27001 standard.
13. Implement Stage 2 audit advice
Address any non-conformities or areas for improvement identified during the Stage 2 audit. This may involve updating policies, implementing additional controls, or refining existing processes to meet the requirements of the ISO 27001 standard.
14. Commit to subsequent audits and assessments
Once certified, your organization must undergo regular surveillance audits (typically annually) and a full recertification audit every three years. These audits ensure that your ISMS remains compliant with the ISO 27001 standard and continues to be effective in managing information security risks.
15. Perform ongoing improvements
Continuously monitor and improve your ISMS based on the feedback and findings from audits, as well as evolving security threats, regulatory changes, and organizational requirements. Regularly review and update your risk assessments, policies, and controls to ensure that your ISMS remains relevant and effective in protecting your organization’s information assets.
By following these steps and maintaining a commitment to continuous improvement, your organization can achieve and maintain ISO 27001 certification, demonstrating its dedication to implementing and maintaining a robust information security management system.
Need help earning your ISO 27001 certification? Contact Insight Assurance for expert guidance through every step of the process.
