ISO 27017
Code of practice for cloud-specific information security controls
ISO 21001
International standard for educational organizations management systems
Quick Verdict
ISO 27017 provides cloud-specific security guidance for CSPs within ISO 27001 ISMS, while ISO 21001 establishes certifiable EOMS for educational organizations. CSPs adopt 27017 for shared responsibility clarity; educators use 21001 to enhance learner outcomes and satisfaction.
ISO 27017
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 Code of practice for cloud security
Key Features
- Clarifies shared responsibilities between CSPs and CSCs
- Introduces 7 cloud-specific CLD controls
- Provides guidance for 37 ISO 27002 cloud adaptations
- Addresses multi-tenancy and VM segregation/hardening
- Enables secure asset removal and customer monitoring
ISO 21001
ISO 21001: Management systems for educational organizations
Key Features
- Learner-centered processes and special needs support
- Annex SL alignment with ISO 9001 for integration
- Risk-based planning and PDCA continual improvement
- Curriculum design, assessment validation controls
- Data protection, accessibility, ethical conduct principles
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
ISO 27017 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 is a code of practice extending ISO/IEC 27002 with cloud-specific information security controls. It provides implementation guidance for cloud services across IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, focusing on shared responsibilities in multi-tenant environments. Its risk-based approach integrates into ISO 27001 ISMS without standalone certification.
Key Components
- Guidance on 37 ISO 27002 controls adapted for cloud.
- 7 additional CLD controls (e.g., shared roles, VM segregation, asset removal).
- Domains mirror 27002: access, operations, supplier relationships.
- Assessed via ISO 27001 audits with 27017 scope extension.
Why Organizations Use It
Enhances cloud risk management, clarifies CSP/CSC duties, supports GDPR/CCPA alignment. Builds trust in procurement, differentiates CSPs, reduces incidents from misconfigurations.
Implementation Overview
Integrate into existing ISO 27001 ISMS via risk assessment, control mapping, tooling for monitoring/segregation. Suits CSPs/CSCs of all sizes; joint audits take 9-12 months.
ISO 21001 Details
What It Is
ISO 21001:2025 is the international certification standard for Educational Organizations Management Systems (EOMS). It specifies requirements to support competence development through teaching, learning, or research, enhancing learner satisfaction. Using Annex SL High Level Structure, it employs a risk-based PDCA cycle with education-specific adaptations.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10: context, leadership, planning, support, operations, evaluation, improvement
- 11 principles: learner focus, accessibility, ethical conduct, data protection
- Distinctive controls for curriculum design, assessment integrity, special needs
- Voluntary certification via accredited bodies with Stage 1/2 audits
Why Organizations Use It
- Boosts learner outcomes, retention, employability
- Meets regulatory/quality demands, mitigates risks
- Builds competitive edge, stakeholder trust
- Demonstrates evidence-based continuous improvement
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process mapping, training, pilots, audits
- Suits all sizes/sectors delivering education
- Emphasizes leadership commitment, templates like VET21001 (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | ISO 27017 | ISO 21001 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cloud-specific security controls | Educational management systems |
| Industry | Cloud service providers/customers | Educational organizations |
| Nature | Guidance code of practice | Certifiable management standard |
| Testing | Integrated into ISO 27001 audits | Standalone certification audits |
| Penalties | Loss of ISO 27001 certification | Loss of EOMS certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ISO 27017 and ISO 21001
ISO 27017 FAQ
ISO 21001 FAQ
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