Compliance
4 min read
SOC 2 Type 1 vs Type 2
SOC 2 comes in two forms. A Type 1 report checks that your security controls are designed correctly at a single point in time. A Type 2 report checks that those controls actually operated effectively over a period, usually three to twelve months. Type 1 is faster and makes a good first milestone; most enterprise buyers eventually want Type 2, because it proves your security works over time rather than just on the day of the audit.
At a glance
Type 1 | Type 2 | |
|---|---|---|
What it tests | Control design at a point in time | Operating effectiveness over a period |
Time window | A single date | Three to twelve months |
Time to get it | Faster | Longer, needs the observation window |
What buyers think | A good start | The one they really want |
Relative cost | Lower | Higher |
Choose when | You need proof fast | Proving mature, ongoing security |
What a Type 1 report is
A Type 1 report is a snapshot. An auditor reviews your controls on a specific date and confirms they are designed to meet the SOC 2 criteria. It does not test whether those controls held up over weeks or months. Because there is no observation window, you can get a Type 1 relatively quickly once you are ready, which makes it useful when a customer or investor needs to see something now.
What a Type 2 report is
A Type 2 report tests operating effectiveness. The auditor observes your controls over a period, commonly three to twelve months, and checks that they worked consistently the whole time. This is harder to fake and more meaningful, which is why serious buyers treat Type 2 as the real signal that your security program is mature.
Which should you get first?
If you need proof fast, a Type 1 is a sensible bridge: it unblocks a deal while your Type 2 observation window runs. If you have the time, you can go straight to Type 2 and skip paying for two reports. Either way, plan to land on Type 2, because that is what most enterprise procurement teams ask for.
How long is the observation window?
Most companies choose a three or six month window for their first Type 2, then move to a twelve month cycle for renewals. A shorter first window gets you a report sooner; a longer one carries more weight. Your readiness partner can help you pick based on your deal timeline.
FAQ
Is Type 1 or Type 2 better?
Type 2 is stronger because it proves controls worked over time. Type 1 is faster and useful as a first step, but it is not a substitute for Type 2 in the eyes of most enterprise buyers.
Can we skip Type 1 and go straight to Type 2?
Yes. If you do not need a report urgently, going straight to Type 2 avoids paying for two audits. Choose Type 1 first only when you need something to show before the observation window can finish.
How often do we renew?
Type 2 reports cover a period, so you renew annually with a rolling observation window to stay continuously covered.
Does a Type 1 satisfy enterprise customers?
Sometimes as a stopgap, but most enterprise procurement teams eventually require a Type 2. Treat Type 1 as a bridge, not the destination.
Next step
Not sure whether to start with Type 1 or go straight to Type 2? A free security review will map your fastest honest path to a report. Get a free security review.
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