Information Security

Differences between ISO 27001 and ISO 27002

What is ISO 27001? ISO 27001 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continuously improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It provides a structured approach to managing sensitive business information so that it remains secure. ISO 27001 is important for organizations that want to implement a systematic approach to information security. This standard sets requirements for risk assessment, security policies, personnel security, physical security and more. The main focus is on risk management, which helps organizations proactively manage threats and vulnerabilities.
This article was last updated on
16/10/2025

What is ISO 27001?

ISO 27001 is an international standard that describes the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continuously improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It provides a structured approach to managing sensitive corporate information so that it remains secure.

ISO 27001 is important for organizations that want to implement a systematic approach to information security. This standard sets requirements for risk assessment, security policies, personnel security, physical security and more. The main focus is on risk management, which helps organizations proactively manage threats and vulnerabilities.

What is ISO 27002?

Unlike ISO 27001, ISO 27002 focuses more on practical guidelines and measures for information security. ISO 27002 is designed as a supporting standard to ISO 27001, recommending specific security controls that organizations can implement. These guidelines are not mandatory, but provide best practices to strengthen security.

ISO 27002 provides a comprehensive list of security measures in various areas, such as access management, physical security, personnel security and communications security. It helps organizations choose the appropriate security measures based on their risk assessment and the nature of their business activities.

Key differences between ISO 27001 and ISO 27002

Although ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 are often mentioned together, they differ in some important ways:

  1. ISO 27001 focuses on the information security management system (ISMS) and is intended to be certified. It is a requirements standard. ISO 27002, on the other hand, is a set of guidelines to help implement security controls, but it does not require certification.
  2. ISO 27001 is mandatory for organizations seeking certification. It defines what an organization must do to comply with the standard. ISO 27002 is an advisory standard that provides best practices for implementing security controls, but there is no mandatory certification.
  3. ISO 27001 includes requirements for establishing an ISMS, while ISO 27002 provides a comprehensive list of security measures that can be chosen by organizations based on their specific risk assessment.

ISO 27001: the focus on the ISMS

At the heart of ISO 27001 is the Information Security Management System (ISMS). This management system ensures that an organization systematically handles information security by managing risks and establishing appropriate controls. Implementing an ISMS involves a series of processes, including risk assessment, creation of security policies and continuous improvement. ISO 27001 emphasizes a cyclical process of plan, implement, monitor and adjust (PDCA cycle), which allows organizations to continuously improve their information security.

ISO 27002: the focus on guidelines and measures

ISO 27002 provides concrete measures that organizations can implement to strengthen their information security. These measures are based on best practices and can be adapted to an organization's needs. Consider access management, data security, incident management and communications security. Whereas ISO 27001 focuses on the policy and management process, ISO 27002 focuses on the practical implementation of security controls.

Certification: ISO 27001 vs. ISO 27002

ISO 27001 is a standard designed for certification. Organizations that meet the requirements of ISO 27001 can be certified by an accredited body. This provides official proof that the organization meets international standards for information security.

ISO 27002 does not provide an opportunity for certification. It is a set of guidelines to help improve security, but no formal certification is possible. Companies can use ISO 27002 to support their ISO 27001 certification.

ISO 27001 and ISO 27002

Although ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 are separate standards, they complement each other well. Organizations can use ISO 27001 to establish an information security management system and achieve certification, while using ISO 27002 to implement security measures. Together, these standards provide a powerful framework for managing information security on a strategic and operational level. So you'll be all set for your ISO 27001 audit! 

Conclusion: ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 in harmony

ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 are two complementary standards that help organizations manage and strengthen their information security. ISO 27001 lays the foundation with a management system, while ISO 27002 provides practical guidelines for implementing security measures. Together, they provide a comprehensive approach to protecting sensitive information and managing risk.

Are you looking for an ISO check for your ISO audit? We offer no-obligation, no-cost consultations. Feel free to contact us for more information! Then you are guaranteed to get your ISO certification.

FAQ: frequently asked questions about ISO 27001 and ISO 27002

  1. What is the main difference between ISO 27001 and ISO 27002?
    ISO 27001 is a standard focused on establishing an ISMS and requires certification. ISO 27002 provides guidelines for implementing security measures and is not certification-oriented.
  2. Can an organization use both ISO 27001 and ISO 27002?
    Yes, ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 are often used together. ISO 27001 provides the structure for an ISMS, while ISO 27002 provides specific measures to strengthen security.
  3. Is ISO 27002 mandatory?
    No, ISO 27002 is a set of guidelines and is not mandatory. Organizations can use the measures in ISO 27002 to improve their information security.

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Kilian Houthuijzen
Commercial Manager & Partner
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