TOGAF
Vendor-neutral framework for enterprise architecture governance
ISO 27017
International standard for cloud-specific security controls
Quick Verdict
TOGAF provides enterprise architecture methodology for aligning business and IT globally, while ISO 27017 extends ISO 27001 with cloud-specific security controls. Companies adopt TOGAF for strategic governance and ISO 27017 for cloud risk management and compliance assurance.
TOGAF
TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition (The Open Group)
Key Features
- Iterative ADM lifecycle across 10 phases
- Content Metamodel for consistent artifacts and traceability
- Enterprise Continuum for reusable architecture assets
- Foundation Reference Models like TRM and III-RM
- Architecture Capability Framework for governance and skills
ISO 27017
ISO/IEC 27017:2015
Key Features
- Clarifies shared responsibilities between CSPs and CSCs
- Introduces seven cloud-specific CLD controls
- Provides guidance for 37 ISO 27002 cloud adaptations
- Ensures multi-tenancy and VM segregation controls
- Integrates into ISO 27001 certification audits
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
TOGAF Details
What It Is
TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition by The Open Group is a vendor-neutral enterprise architecture framework. Its primary purpose is designing, planning, implementing, and governing enterprise-wide change. Core approach is the iterative Architecture Development Method (ADM) spanning Preliminary to Change Management phases.
Key Components
- **ADM phases10 iterative stages including Business, Data, Application, Technology Architectures.
- **Content FrameworkDeliverables, artifacts (catalogs, matrices, diagrams), building blocks.
- Enterprise Continuum, Reference Models (TRM, SIB, III-RM), Capability Framework.
- No fixed controls; certification via Open Group paths for practitioners.
Why Organizations Use It
Aligns strategy with IT for efficiency, reuse, risk reduction. Enables governance, avoids vendor lock-in, supports ROI via traceability. Builds stakeholder trust through standardized communication; voluntary but strategic for large enterprises.
Implementation Overview
Phased tailoring: Preliminary setup, ADM cycles, pilots scaling to full capability. Applies to large/complex organizations across industries. Involves maturity assessments, Architecture Board, repository; practitioner certification recommended, no mandatory audits.
ISO 27017 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 is a code of practice for information security controls tailored to cloud services. It extends ISO/IEC 27002 guidelines for CSPs and CSCs, focusing on shared responsibilities across IaaS, PaaS, SaaS. Employs a risk-based, control-oriented approach within ISO 27001 ISMS.
Key Components
- Cloud-specific guidance on 37 ISO 27002 controls
- 7 additional CLD controls (e.g., shared roles CLD.6.3.1, VM segregation CLD.9.5.1)
- Built on ISO 27001/27002 frameworks
- Compliance via ISO 27001 audits with 27017 scope extension; no standalone certification
Why Organizations Use It
- Addresses cloud risks like multi-tenancy, shared responsibility gaps
- Supports procurement, regulatory alignment (GDPR/CCPA)
- Enhances risk management, customer trust
- Provides competitive differentiation for CSPs/CSCs
Implementation Overview
- Integrate into existing ISO 27001 ISMS via risk assessment, control mapping
- Key steps: define responsibilities, configure VM hardening, enable monitoring
- Applicable globally to cloud-using organizations of all sizes
- Audited annually within ISO 27001 surveillance (9-12 months for joint)
Key Differences
| Aspect | TOGAF | ISO 27017 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Enterprise architecture design and governance | Cloud-specific information security controls |
| Industry | All industries, global enterprises | Cloud providers and users, global |
| Nature | Voluntary EA framework and methodology | Guidance code for ISO 27001 ISMS |
| Testing | Maturity assessments, no formal certification | ISO 27001 audits include 27017 controls |
| Penalties | No penalties, loss of governance benefits | No direct penalties, certification withdrawal |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about TOGAF and ISO 27017
TOGAF FAQ
ISO 27017 FAQ
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