There are over 47,000* ISO 27001 certificates issued worldwide, demonstrating thousands of organisations’ commitment to robust and compliant information security management systems (ISMS). ISO 27001 certification enables organisations to take a proactive, structured approach to information security - helping to protect data, reduce risk, and support compliance. This ISO 27001 guide is the perfect starting point for your journey.
ISO 27001 and GDPR Compliance in Ireland
For Irish businesses, ISO 27001 certification helps meet key General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requirements. Implementing an ISMS (Information Security Management System) allows organisations to evaluate their people, technology and processes to help protect intellectual property, customer data and critical business information.
Find out more about demonstrating GDPR compliance.
What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 is a global standard from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) focused on safeguarding the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. It sets out how to establish and maintain an effective ISMS – covering the people, processes and technology involved in managing information securely.
Key components of ISO 27001:
- Risk assessments and mitigation
- Implementation of security controls
- Regular monitoring, auditing, and continual improvement
- Staff training and awareness
Implementing an ISMS includes conducting risk assessments, reviewing and implementing controls, creating and maintaining documentation, and training employees in security awareness. An ISMS should be regularly reviewed, monitored, audited, and improved.
Why ISO 27001 Matters
ISO 27001 certification helps organisations protect sensitive data and manage information security risks effectively. It requires businesses to assess potential threats and implement appropriate controls based on their unique risk environment. While not mandating specific solutions, the standard supports the use of measures, such as like real-time detection tools, two-factor authentication (2FA), firewalls, or intrusion detection systems (IDS), where they are identified as necessary through risk assessment. By fostering a risk-based approach, ISO 27001 helps reduce the likelihood and impact of cyber threats, including ransomware and phishing attacks.
Learn more about our ISO 27001 certification services, delivered by an internationally accredited certification body.
Why Your Organisation Needs an ISO 27001-Certified ISMS
Information security plays a critical role in the processing, storage, and transfer of data, including customer data and sensitive business information. An ISO 27001-certified ISMS provides:
- A structured, transparent way to manage and monitor information security
- Identification of risk-prone areas with clear improvement plans
- A framework for demonstrating GDPR compliance
Benefits of ISO 27001 Certification
Thinking about certifying your ISMS? Here’s what ISO 27001 can do for your business:
- Stronger security and lower cyber risk : Identify and limit security gaps before they can be exploited. Read our Pogust Goodhead case study to see real-world success.
- Enhanced reputation and competitive advantage : Demonstrate your commitment to data protection in tenders and to stakeholders.
- GDPR compliance and legal protection : Help to achieve key legal obligations and reduce the risk of fines.
- Protection for both organisation and clients : Reduce the risk of data leaks and security breaches. Read our case study with CR2 Limited here.
- Quality assurance and early issue detection : Maintain high standards through regular assessments and early issue detection.
- Improved workplace culture : Foster a proactive, security-first mindset among your team.
The ISO 27001 Certification Process
Certification is carried out in two key stages:
- Stage One Audit: Documentation & readiness review
A high-level assessment reviews your documentation and readiness for full certification. Any issues identified during this stage can be addressed before moving to the Stage Two Audit.
We recommend a gap of at least 8 weeks between Stage One and Stage Two, with a maximum of 6 months.
- Stage Two Audit: Full compliance assessment
This in-depth assessment determines whether your organisation meets all requirements. To proceed, all major non-conformities from the Stage One Audit must be addressed.
What happens if issues are found?
- Minor non-conformity: A corrective action plan with timelines must be submitted and approved by the auditor before moving forward with a decision of certification.
- Major non-conformity: Must be resolved within 30 days of the completion of the Stage Two Audit.
To find out more about the audit process, read our ISO FAQ guide on the ISO certification journey.
ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Training Course
Our Lead Auditor training is ideal for employees responsible for conducting internal audits on their ISMS and security controls. Participants gain in-depth knowledge of ISO/IEC 27001:2022 and learn how to confidently conduct internal audits aligned with the standard – a great preparation activity to complete prior to the certification audits or annual surveillance audits.
View all of our ISO 27001 training courses here, which includes our free Introduction to ISO 27001 training.
Contact our friendly team today
For more in-depth information on the process of becoming certified, explore our article about the journey to ISO certification, or speak with a member of our friendly team to find out more. Simply contact us via email here or call us on +353 1 270 7973.
*According to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Survey, 2023.
