SOC 1 and SOC 2 are both types of audit reports that provide assurance to customers and stakeholders regarding an organization's internal controls related to financial reporting (SOC 1) and information security and data privacy (SOC 2). The certification process for each is different. Here are the high-level steps for each SOC certification process:
 
SOC 1:
Define the scope of the audit: The organization and auditor agree on the scope of the audit, which typically includes the systems and processes that are relevant to financial reporting.
 
Conduct a risk assessment: The organization identifies and assesses the risks that could impact financial reporting.
 
Develop controls: The organization develops controls to mitigate identified risks.
Implement controls: The organization implements the controls.
 
Engage an independent auditor: The organization engages an independent auditor to perform the SOC 1 audit.
 
Auditor's examination: The auditor examines the controls to ensure that they are suitably designed and operating effectively.
 
Report issuance: The auditor issues a SOC 1 report that includes an opinion on the effectiveness of the organization's controls related to financial reporting.
 
SOC 2:
Define the scope of the audit: The organization and auditor agree on the scope of the audit, which typically includes the systems and processes that are relevant to information security and data privacy.
 
Conduct a risk assessment: The organization identifies and assesses the risks that could impact information security and data privacy.
 
Develop controls: The organization develops controls to mitigate identified risks.
 
Implement controls: The organization implements the controls.
 
Engage an independent auditor: The organization engages an independent auditor to perform the SOC 2 audit.
 
Auditor's examination: The auditor examines the controls to ensure that they are suitably designed and operating effectively.
 
Report issuance: The auditor issues a SOC 2 report that includes an opinion on the effectiveness of the organization's controls related to information security and data privacy.
 
It is important to note that both SOC 1 and SOC 2 certifications require ongoing monitoring and testing of controls to maintain certification. Additionally, the certification process can vary depending on the organization's size, complexity, and industry.