Your security and compliance glossary

All the terms you need to know when you’re trying to get compliance audit ready, fast.

Show filters

What is the ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit?

The ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit—also known as the Main or Certification audit—is the second part of the two-stage external ISO certification process and follows the successful completion of the Stage 1 audit. The Stage 2 Audit consists of the auditor performing tests to ensure an organization’s Information Security Management System (ISMS) was properly designed and implemented and is functioning appropriately. The auditor will also evaluate the fairness and suitability of the organization’s controls to determine if the controls have been implemented and are operating effectively to meet the ISO 27001 standard requirements.

An ISO 27001 certification is valid for three years; however, ISO requires surveillance audits be performed each year to ensure the ISMS and its implemented controls continue to operate effectively. Every 12 months during the three-year cycle, an organization’s ISMS must undergo an external audit, where an auditor will assess portions of the ISMS.

{{cta_withimage2="/cta-modules"}}

Additional resources you might like:

Comparisons and reviews
Blog
The best TPRM software for 2026

Discover the best third-party risk management software solutions for 2026.

Compliance
Events
Getting Ready for APRA CPS 230/234 Compliance

Join our Q&A-led session that will highlight the most common CPS 234 readiness questions, and explore how CPS 230 builds on these foundations.

Comparisons and reviews
Blog
The best SOC 2 compliance software for 2026

Here are the best SOC 2 compliance software platforms, including Vanta and others.

Additional resources you might like:

Comparisons and reviews
Blog
The best TPRM software for 2026

Discover the best third-party risk management software solutions for 2026.

Compliance
Events
Getting Ready for APRA CPS 230/234 Compliance

Join our Q&A-led session that will highlight the most common CPS 234 readiness questions, and explore how CPS 230 builds on these foundations.

Comparisons and reviews
Blog
The best SOC 2 compliance software for 2026

Here are the best SOC 2 compliance software platforms, including Vanta and others.

Comparisons and reviews
Blog
The best ISO 27001 compliance software for 2026

Discover the best ISO 27001 compliance software options for 2026, including Vanta.

Compliance
Blog
What is vendor compliance, and why does it matter?

Learn about vendor compliance and its key regulations and requirements across industries.

Compliance
Blog
CRI Cyber Profile: A complete guide for financial institutions

Get in-depth insights into the CRI Cyber Profile and what it means for financial institutions.

Compliance
Blog
How to choose the right AI standard: A 7-point guide

Discover the seven essential questions that help you choose an AI standard for your organization.

Compliance
Blog
Government contracting compliance 101: Everything you should know

Understand the regulations and standards government contractors must meet—and the challenges involved.

Compliance
Events
Beyond Compliance: Building a Scalable Trust Program with Vanta

Join us to see how high-growth companies use Vanta to build trust, stay audit-ready, and scale with confidence.