ISO 37301 vs MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
ISO 37301
International standard for compliance management systems
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
China's mandatory framework for graded network cybersecurity protection
Quick Verdict
ISO 37301 is a certifiable standard for Compliance Management Systems, used by companies for risk-based compliance, certification, and integrity amid regulations. MLPS 2.0 is China's graded cybersecurity scheme classifying networks by impact; firms adopt it to meet legal mandates and avoid fines.
ISO 37301
ISO 37301:2021 Compliance management systems – Requirements
Key Features
- Certifiable requirements for compliance management systems
- High-Level Structure enables integration with other ISO standards
- Risk-based planning identifies obligations and controls
- Leadership commitment fosters compliance culture and whistleblowing
- PDCA cycle drives continual improvement and evaluation
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
Multi-Level Protection Scheme 2.0
Key Features
- Five-level impact-based system classification
- Mandatory PSB registration and approvals for Level 2+
- Third-party audits scoring 70/100 minimum
- Extended controls for cloud, IoT, industrial systems
- Ongoing governance, re-evaluations, law enforcement oversight
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
ISO 37301 Details
What It Is
ISO 37301:2021 – Compliance management systems – Requirements with guidance for use is a certifiable international standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving effective compliance management systems (CMS). It applies to all organization sizes and sectors, using a risk-based approach and Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle within the ISO High-Level Structure (HLS) for seamless integration.
Key Components
- Core clauses: context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
- Emphasizes leadership commitment, compliance culture, whistleblowing protections, risk assessments, and continual improvement.
- Built on HLS; companion standards like ISO 37302 for measurement.
- Supports third-party certification via accredited bodies.
Why Organizations Use It
- Demonstrates systematic compliance to stakeholders, reduces risks, fines, and reputational damage.
- Meets voluntary commitments amid regulatory complexity and ESG demands.
- Enhances efficiency, investor trust, and market access.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk register, training, audits, certification.
- Scalable for SMEs to enterprises; 3-year certification cycles.
- Global applicability with 2024 climate amendment.
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme) Details
What It Is
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme 2.0) is China's mandatory regulatory framework under the Cybersecurity Law. It classifies information systems into five levels based on compromise impact to national security, social order, and public interests, requiring graded technical and governance controls.
Key Components
- Domains: physical security, network protection, data security, operations monitoring.
- Standards: GB/T 22239-2019, GB/T 25070-2019 for baselines and evaluations.
- 70/100 audit score minimum for Level 2+ certification.
- Common controls plus extensions for cloud, IoT, ICS.
Why Organizations Use It
- Enforced compliance avoids fines, suspensions, inspections.
- Builds resilience, supports market access in China.
- Enhances governance, risk management, stakeholder trust.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: classification, gap analysis, remediation, third-party audits, PSB filing.
- Targets all China network operators; ongoing re-evaluations.
- High for multinationals via local teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ISO 37301 and MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
ISO 37301 FAQ
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme) FAQ
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