ISO 27001 Certification

Q: Is ISO 27001 the same as Cyber Essentials?

ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials (Cyber Essentials Plus)are not the same. They both focus on improving information security, but they serve different purposes and operate at different levels of depth. ISO 27001 is a comprehensive international standard that covers the full management of information security across people, processes and technology. It requires risk assessments, documented policies, internal audits, continuous improvement and a wide range of controls. Cyber Essentials is a UK government backed scheme designed to provide a basic level of protection against common cyber security threats. It focuses mainly on technical measures such as firewalls, secure configuration, user access control and malware protection. While Cyber Essentials is a useful starting point, ISO 27001 offers far broader and deeper protection, making it suitable for organisations that need a mature and fully audited security framework. Key Points ISO 27001 is a full international information security management standard Cyber Essentials Plus Certification provides a basic level of technical cyber protection ISO 27001 covers people, processes and governance, not just technology Cyber Essentials is often a first step, while ISO 27001 is a full security framework Organisations may hold both certifications as they complement each other

Expert ISO 27001 Certification

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Expert ISO 27001 Certification & Support

ISO 27001 certification is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your organisation’s security, protect sensitive data, and build long term trust with clients and stakeholders. At SolidITSM, we guide businesses through the full certification journey, making the process clear, structured and manageable. Our focus is on helping you reduce risks, improve resilience, and create a stronger foundation for growth. We work closely with your team to introduce practical controls, simplify documentation, and support continuous improvement so your business operates with greater confidence and security every day.

What is ISO 27001 certification?

ISO 27001 is the globally recognised standard for Information Security Management Systems, also known as ISO or IEC 27001. It provides a structured framework that helps organisations protect sensitive information, reduce risks and maintain strong security practices across every part of the business. Achieving certification shows that a company has a reliable, well managed approach to safeguarding data such as customer and employee records, financial information, intellectual property and third party data. The process involves assessing risks, introducing effective security controls and embedding good security habits throughout the organisation. The standard is suitable for any business that collects or processes information, including SMEs, large corporations and non profit organisations.

Key Points
Globally recognised ISMS standard that strengthens security and reduces risk
Demonstrates a structured, reliable approach to protecting sensitive information
Requires robust controls, risk assessments and ongoing security management
Suitable for SMEs, corporates and non profit organisations of all sizes
Helps build customer trust and support long term business growth

The benefits of ISO 27001 certification

ISO 27001 offers a powerful framework that helps organisations protect information, build trust and operate with greater confidence. By adopting this standard, your business can strengthen its security posture, improve internal processes and create a culture where staff understand their responsibilities and feel confident in how they handle data. These benefits support long term growth, help you stay compliant with evolving regulations and position your organisation as a trusted, reliable partner in the eyes of clients and stakeholders.

Key Benefits
Strengthen data security by showing a clear commitment to protecting sensitive information
Boost employee engagement through structured, easy to follow security practices
Enhance operational efficiency by improving processes and reducing costs
Protect valuable information assets from threats and unauthorised access
Future proof your organisation by staying aligned with new risks and regulations
Enhance your reputation and build trust with customers who value strong security
Impress existing clients by demonstrating continual improvement in quality and protection
Win more business by meeting respected international security standards
Suitable for organisations of every size and sector, from SMEs to large enterprises

"Every 60 seconds, an estimated 2,200 cyber attacks target businesses worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and operations."

Key requirements of ISO 27001

The ISO 27001 standard sets out several essential requirements that organisations must meet to show they are managing information security in a structured and responsible way. These requirements help create a consistent approach to identifying risks, protecting information and maintaining strong security practices throughout the business.

How to become ISO 27001 certified

Becoming ISO 27001 certified is a clear and structured process, and our team will guide you from the very first step. From planning your assessment to achieving full certification, we support you with practical advice and steady guidance. Our Client Success Team will help you prepare, understand what is required and feel confident as you move through each stage of the journey.

Step 1: Stage 1 assessment, identifying gaps
The first assessment is designed to help you understand where you stand. There is no pressure at this stage. Many organisations discover they already have several good practices in place. You will receive a clear report that highlights any gaps and outlines the actions needed to reach certification.

Step 2: Stage 2 assessment, in depth review
Once you are ready, an auditor will complete a full review of your management system. This assessment checks whether your processes and controls meet the requirements of the standard. A key part of this stage involves reviewing real examples of how your organisation delivers its products and services.

Step 3: Auditor’s recommendations
At the end of your assessment, the auditor will share their recommendations. These findings are then confirmed by our compliance team. When everything meets the standard, your certification will be approved and prepared for issue.

Step 4: Success, certification issued
After certification, we continue to support you. ISO 27001 requires ongoing assessments and continuous improvement to maintain its strong reputation. We stay in touch, arrange your annual assessments and help you keep your certification current, effective and aligned with your organisation’s goals.

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Commonly Asked Questions About IS027001 Certification

We have gathered the most frequently asked questions about our ISO 27001 Certification services to help you understand how we strengthen and protect your organisation. If you need any further guidance, our team is always happy to assist. You can also explore our full ISO 27001 Frequestly Asked Questions (FAQs), for detailed, in depth answers covering every stage of the certification process and the ongoing support we provide.

What does iso stand for?

ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization, an independent global body that develops and publishes recognised standards for quality, safety and security across almost every industry. Although the organisation’s official name differs slightly between languages, the founders chose the short form ISO to ensure it is consistent worldwide. It comes from the Greek word “isos”, meaning equal, which reflects the organisation’s purpose of creating consistent, reliable and universal standards. ISO standards provide guidance and requirements that help organisations operate more safely, effectively and responsibly. In the context of information security, ISO 27001 sets the benchmark for managing and protecting sensitive data. By following these standards, organisations can demonstrate professionalism, accountability and a commitment to best practice, which strengthens confidence among customers, regulators and business partners.

Key Points
ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization
The name comes from “isos”, meaning equal
Provides global standards for quality, safety and security
ISO 27001 is the recognised standard for information security
Demonstrates professionalism and alignment with best practice

Will ISO 27001 eliminate all our security risks?

ISO 27001 will not eliminate all security risks, but it significantly reduces them and ensures they are managed in a responsible and controlled way. No organisation can remove every risk, because new threats, human error and technology changes will always exist. Instead, ISO 27001 creates a risk based approach where you identify, evaluate and treat risks with appropriate controls. This means your organisation understands where its vulnerabilities are and has a clear plan for managing them. Over time, this improves resilience, reduces incidents and strengthens decision making. ISO 27001 ensures that risks are managed consistently and transparently rather than relying on ad hoc or informal practices.

Key Points
Reduces risks rather than eliminating them completely
Creates a structured and repeatable approach to risk management
Improves organisational awareness and decision making
Strengthens resilience against evolving cyber threats

What happens during Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits?

The certification audit process for ISO 27001 typically involves two main stages. Stage 1 is a preliminary review of your ISMS documentation and readiness: the certification body checks policies, scope, controls and your preparatory work to identify gaps. This stage helps you understand what areas need attention before full assessment. Stage 2 is a comprehensive audit of implementation: auditors examine actual evidence, interview staff, review processes in action and verify compliance with the standard’s requirements. If the ISMS fulfils the criteria, certification is granted. If non-conformities are found, corrective actions must be addressed. The two-stage structure ensures thorough assessment while giving organisations an opportunity to prepare.

Key Points
Stage 1 assesses documentation and readiness for certification
Stage 2 evaluates real world implementation and evidence of controls
Auditors verify alignment with ISO 27001 requirements
Non-conformities may require corrective action before certification
Successful audits result in issuance of the certificate

Why do businesses need ISO 27001 and what problems does it solve?

Businesses need ISO 27001 because it addresses the growing challenges of managing information securely in a world where cyber risks continue to increase. Without a structured security framework, organisations often rely on inconsistent processes. This leads to gaps, vulnerabilities and confusion over responsibilities. ISO 27001 solves these problems by providing a clear, repeatable system that ensures security is handled consistently across the organisation. It aligns people, processes and technology to create a strong security culture, helping organisations avoid costly breaches, regulatory penalties and reputational damage. For many companies, certification also supports business growth because clients increasingly expect suppliers to meet recognised security standards. ISO 27001 provides clear evidence that your organisation takes information security seriously and follows industry best practice.

Key Points
Creates consistent security processes across the organisation
Reduces cyber risks and prevents costly incidents
Supports regulatory compliance and reduces legal exposure
Builds trust with customers and partners

Is ISO 27001 the same as Cyber Essentials?

ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials (Cyber Essentials Plus)are not the same. They both focus on improving information security, but they serve different purposes and operate at different levels of depth. ISO 27001 is a comprehensive international standard that covers the full management of information security across people, processes and technology. It requires risk assessments, documented policies, internal audits, continuous improvement and a wide range of controls.

Cyber Essentials is a UK government backed scheme designed to provide a basic level of protection against common cyber security threats. It focuses mainly on technical measures such as firewalls, secure configuration, user access control and malware protection. While Cyber Essentials is a useful starting point, ISO 27001 offers far broader and deeper protection, making it suitable for organisations that need a mature and fully audited security framework.

Key Points
ISO 27001 is a full international information security management standard
Cyber Essentials Plus Certification provides a basic level of technical cyber protection
ISO 27001 covers people, processes and governance, not just technology
Cyber Essentials is often a first step, while ISO 27001 is a full security framework
Organisations may hold both certifications as they complement each other

What are the main differences between ISO 27001:2013 and ISO 27001:2022?

The ISO 27001:2022 update modernises the standard to reflect today’s security threats and digital landscape. While the core structure and intent remain the same, the new version introduces updated Annex A controls, clearer requirements and a stronger focus on digital environments. The most noticeable change is the reduction and restructuring of Annex A controls from 114 to 93, making them easier to manage and more aligned with current risks. New controls have been added for areas such as threat intelligence, cloud services, secure coding and physical security monitoring. These updates ensure organisations can protect data more effectively as technology evolves. The 2022 version also improves the link between risk management and controls, helping organisations maintain a more proactive and resilient security posture.

Key Points
Annex A controls reduced from 114 to 93 for clarity
New controls added for cloud security and digital threats
Stronger link between risk assessment and treatment
Updated structure reflects today’s cybersecurity landscape

What is Annex A?

Annex A is a key component of the ISO 27001 standard and lists the full set of security controls that organisations can apply to protect their information. These controls form the backbone of an effective Information Security Management System because they provide clear guidance on how to reduce risks, strengthen processes and maintain a secure operating environment. Annex A in the ISO 27001:2022 update includes 93 controls grouped into four categories: organisational, people, physical and technological. The purpose of these controls is to help organisations build a structured approach to security and ensure that every area of the business is covered. While not every control will apply to every organisation, Annex A provides a comprehensive catalogue so you can select the measures that are relevant to your risks, operations and legal requirements. This flexibility makes the framework effective for organisations of all sizes.

Key Points
Contains 93 information security controls across four categories
Helps organisations select appropriate measures based on risk
Supports a structured and comprehensive approach to security
Forms a core part of the Information Security Management System
Ensures organisations address people, process and technology risks

How long does it take to become ISO 27001 certified?

The time required to achieve ISO 27001 certification varies depending on your organisation’s size, complexity and current level of maturity. Most small and medium sized businesses complete the process within three to six months, while larger organisations may take longer due to wider scoping and more extensive documentation. The process includes a gap analysis, implementation of required controls, staff training, internal audits and the final certification audit. Having clear leadership support, dedicated resources and an organised project plan can significantly shorten the timeline. Working with an experienced consultancy also helps streamline the process, reduce uncertainty and ensure the implementation is completed efficiently. Certification is achievable for organisations of all sizes when approached with the right structure and guidance.

Key Points
Typical timeline is three to six months for SMEs
Larger organisations may require additional time
Strong planning and leadership support speed up progress
Consultants can simplify the journey and reduce delays

What does the certification process involve from start to finish?

The ISO 27001 certification process begins with defining the scope of your Information Security Management System and assessing your current controls through a gap analysis. Once gaps are identified, you implement the necessary policies, procedures and controls to meet the standard. Staff need training to ensure they understand their responsibilities, and internal audits must be carried out to check everything is working as intended. After preparation is complete, an accredited certification body performs the Stage 1 audit to review documentation, followed by a Stage 2 audit to assess real world implementation. If all requirements are met, certification is issued. After certification, you must complete annual surveillance audits to maintain compliance and support continuous improvement.

Key Points
Starts with scoping and a detailed gap analysis
Requires implementation of controls and staff training
Involves Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits by an accredited body
Ongoing surveillance audits ensure long term compliance

Is ISO 27001 suitable for SMEs and start ups?

ISO 27001 is highly suitable for SMEs and start ups because it provides a structured and affordable way to protect information without unnecessary complexity. Smaller businesses often work with limited resources, and the framework helps them prioritise the most important controls that genuinely reduce risk. It also supports growth by building trust with customers who expect strong security practices from their suppliers. Many SMEs find that ISO 27001 helps them win new contracts, especially in sectors where security audits and supplier reviews are common. The standard is flexible, which means it can be scaled to match your current size and expanded as your organisation matures. For start ups, adopting ISO 27001 early creates a strong foundation for secure operations and future growth.

Key Points
Scalable and suitable for organisations of all sizes
Helps SMEs win contracts and build customer trust
Prioritises essential controls for reduced complexity
Supports long term growth and professionalisation

What resources and staff are required to implement ISO 27001?

Implementing ISO 27001 requires a combination of internal commitment, clear leadership and the right mix of skills across your organisation. Most businesses appoint an Information Security Manager or responsible lead to oversee the project and ensure alignment across departments. You will also need input from IT, HR, operations, legal and management teams, as each area plays a role in managing information securely. Resources typically include time for documentation, staff training, policy development, risk assessments and internal audits. Some organisations choose external consultants to guide the process and support implementation. While it may seem complex at first, the effort pays off by creating a strong security culture, reducing risks and making your business more resilient.

Key Points
Requires leadership involvement and cross departmental support
Needs time for documentation, risk assessments and audits
Can be supported by external consultants if needed
Builds a strong and sustainable security culture

What is the difference between ISO 27001 and ISO 27002?

ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 work closely together, but they serve different purposes within information security management. ISO 27001 is the main standard that sets out the requirements for building and operating an Information Security Management System. It explains what organisations must do to manage risks, implement controls and achieve certification. ISO 27002, however, provides detailed guidance on how to apply the controls listed in Annex A. While ISO 27001 tells you what must be achieved, ISO 27002 explains how to put it into practice. Together, they create a structured and practical approach to protecting information assets. ISO 27001 is certifiable, meaning organisations can be audited against it. ISO 27002 is a supporting standard that strengthens implementation quality.

Key Points
ISO 27001 sets the requirements for the ISMS
ISO 27002 provides detailed guidance on implementing controls
ISO 27001 is certifiable, ISO 27002 is not
Both work together to support effective information security

How does ISO 27001 help us comply with GDPR and other regulations?

ISO 27001 supports GDPR compliance by providing a structured framework for managing personal data securely. Many GDPR principles align closely with ISO 27001 controls, such as risk assessment, access management, data protection by design and incident response. While ISO 27001 does not replace GDPR, it ensures you have strong policies, technical measures and governance processes in place to protect personal information. This reduces the likelihood of data breaches and demonstrates accountability to regulators. Certification provides documented evidence that your organisation takes data protection seriously and has implemented a responsible approach to information management.

Key Points
Supports GDPR principles through structured security controls
Demonstrates accountability and strong data governance
Reduces breach risks and regulatory exposure
Helps meet wider legal and industry requirements

What happens if we receive non-conformities during the audit?

If your ISO 27001 audit identifies non-conformities, it is not the end of the certification journey. A non-conformity means your ISMS does not fully align with the standard’s requirements in that area, but you can still rectify the issue. The audit report will detail the findings and give you a timeframe to implement corrective actions. Once you address the deficiencies, the certification body will review and, if satisfied, proceed with certification. This process ensures that the ISMS is robust and fully compliant before certification is issued. Continuously improving the system after corrective action contributes to long-term success and audit readiness.

Key Points
Non-conformity means a requirement is not fully met, not automatic failure
You receive a detailed report and timeframe for correction
Implement corrective actions and provide evidence to the certification body
Certification is granted once all issues are resolved and compliance is verified
Corrective cycles support continual improvement of the ISMS

How do we maintain ISO 27001 certification once achieved?

Maintaining ISO 27001 certification requires ongoing commitment to managing and improving your Information Security Management System. Each year, an accredited auditor carries out a surveillance audit to ensure that controls remain effective and that the organisation continues to follow the standard. You must run regular internal audits, review risks, update policies and complete management reviews. Continuous improvement is a core requirement, so you should monitor incidents, evaluate control performance and update processes when necessary. Staff training and awareness must be kept current to ensure everyone understands their responsibilities. By maintaining these activities, your organisation remains compliant and continues to benefit from strong security practices.

Key Points
Annual surveillance audits confirm ongoing compliance
Requires internal audits, updates and management reviews
Continuous improvement strengthens security over time
Staff awareness and training remain essential

What is an ISO Lead Auditor?

An ISO Lead Auditor is a trained and certified professional who is qualified to conduct external audits against recognised ISO standards, such as ISO 27001. Their role is to assess whether an organisation’s management system meets the required criteria and is operating effectively. Lead Auditors have advanced knowledge of audit techniques, risk management, governance and the specific requirements of the standard they are assessing. They guide audit teams, plan and manage the full audit process and report on compliance findings. Their expertise ensures that organisations receive an impartial and accurate evaluation of their systems. A Lead Auditor plays a crucial role in certification, as their assessment determines whether an organisation can achieve or maintain its ISO status. Their work helps businesses identify strengths, understand gaps and make meaningful improvements.

Key Points
A certified professional qualified to conduct ISO audits
Assesses whether organisations meet ISO standard requirements
Leads audit planning, evidence gathering and reporting
Ensures audits are impartial, accurate and professionally delivered
Supports organisations in improving compliance and security practices

Where do you offer ISO 27001 services?

We provide ISO 27001 services across the entire United Kingdom, Spain and Gibraltar, supporting organisations of all sizes with expert guidance, audits and ongoing compliance support. Our team operates from several regional offices, allowing us to offer local knowledge with a consistent and professional service. We have offices in Greater Manchester and Salford, as well as a dedicated team covering Wales from our Tenby and Swansea locations. In Spain, our Sotogrande office supports clients across the Costa del Sol and surrounding regions. This geographical coverage allows us to deliver on site and remote services tailored to your operational needs. Whether you are an SME seeking your first certification or a larger organisation needing advanced support, we provide a reliable and accessible service designed to strengthen your information security and long term resilience.

Key Points
Full coverage across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Local support from Greater Manchester, Salford, Tenby and Swansea
Spanish services delivered from our Sotogrande office on the Costa del Sol
ISO 27001 support available throughout Gibraltar
Remote and on site services tailored to your organisation’s needs

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