Course Format & Delivery Details Self-Paced, On-Demand Access — Learn When and Where It Works for You
Enroll in Mastering SOC 2 Compliance: A Comprehensive Guide to Governance, Security, and Operational Excellence and begin your transformation immediately. This is a fully self-paced course, designed with professionals like you in mind — those who value flexibility, clarity, and control. There are no fixed start or end dates, no scheduled meetings, and absolutely no time commitments. Access the full curriculum the moment you enroll, and progress through each module at your own speed, from any location in the world. Complete in Weeks, Apply for a Lifetime
Most learners complete the course within 4 to 6 weeks by dedicating 6–8 hours per week — but you can move faster or slower depending on your schedule. The best part? You’ll start applying what you learn from Day One. Whether you're drafting your first Trust Services Criteria assessment or building a compliance roadmap for your organization, you’ll see tangible results before you reach the final module. Real structuring, real templates, real frameworks — no theory without application. Lifetime Access — With Ongoing Updates at No Extra Cost
Once enrolled, you receive lifetime access to the entire course, including all future updates. Compliance standards evolve. We ensure your knowledge evolves with them. The course materials are regularly reviewed and enhanced to reflect changes in regulatory expectations, auditor guidance, and industry best practices — all delivered to you at no additional cost. Your investment protects your expertise long after completion. 24/7 Global Access — Optimized for Desktop and Mobile
Access your course anytime, anywhere, from any device. Whether you’re reviewing policy checklists on your tablet during a commute, studying control implementation on your laptop at home, or referencing a compliance framework on your phone before a client meeting — the platform is fully mobile-responsive and built for maximum usability. The interface is clean, intuitive, and engineered for seamless progress tracking and engagement. Direct Instructor Support — Expert Guidance When You Need It
You are not learning in isolation. Receive responsive, professional support directly from our compliance experts. Submit questions, request clarification on control objectives, or discuss implementation strategies and receive detailed, actionable responses. This isn’t automated support or community forums — it’s direct access to seasoned practitioners who have led SOC 2 audits across Fortune 500 companies, cloud startups, and global SaaS providers. Certificate of Completion — Issued by The Art of Service
Upon successful completion, you will earn a formal Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service — a globally recognized authority in professional certification and governance training. This credential validates your mastery of SOC 2 compliance and demonstrates your commitment to operational rigor, data security, and enterprise trust. It’s shareable on LinkedIn, included in job applications, and respected across IT, audit, legal, and executive functions worldwide. Transparent Pricing — No Hidden Fees, Ever
The course fee is straightforward and all-inclusive. There are no hidden charges, recurring subscriptions, or surprise costs. What you see is exactly what you get — lifetime access, full curriculum, expert support, and your official certificate. Your investment is protected, clear, and designed to deliver maximum return with zero financial ambiguity. Secure Payment Options — Visa, Mastercard, PayPal
We accept all major payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal, ensuring a fast, secure, and globally accessible enrollment process. All transactions are encrypted with bank-level security to protect your data and privacy. Enroll with confidence, knowing your payment experience is as seamless as your learning journey. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee — Satisfied or Refunded
We remove every ounce of risk. If, at any point within 30 days, you find the course does not meet your expectations, simply request a full refund. No questions, no hassles, no loops to jump through. We stand by the quality, depth, and impact of our training — and we’re confident you will too. Fast-Track Your Onboarding — What to Expect After Enrollment
After enrollment, you’ll receive a confirmation email acknowledging your registration. Shortly after, a separate email will be sent containing your secure access details and instructions for logging into the learning platform. This ensures your credentials are protected and delivered safely. Please note: access details are sent once course materials are fully prepared — this process allows us to maintain the highest standards of quality, security, and content integrity. Will This Work for Me? — Absolutely, Even If…
You’re worried this course might be too technical, too audit-heavy, or not relevant to your role. Let us reassure you: This works even if you’re not an auditor, not in security, and have never written a control policy before. Designed for a wide range of professionals — including compliance officers, IT managers, cloud architects, legal counsel, privacy leads, startup founders, and governance specialists — this course breaks down SOC 2 into clear, actionable steps anyone can follow. Whether you’re preparing for an external audit or building internal controls from scratch, you’ll gain the exact frameworks, checklists, and real-world structures that drive success. Role-Specific Value You’ll Gain: - IT Leaders: Learn how to align technical configurations with SOC 2 controls — including access management, logging, and change control.
- Compliance Managers: Eliminate ambiguity with pre-built templates for policies, evidence collection, and auditor readiness.
- Startup Founders: Fast-track your sales cycle by achieving SOC 2 readiness without bloated teams or external consultants.
- Legal & Privacy Teams: Map GDPR, CCPA, and other regulations to SOC 2 criteria — creating unified compliance strategies.
- Consultants: Deliver higher-value engagements using standardized, repeatable SOC 2 frameworks that clients trust.
Real Results From Real Professionals
Jessica M., Compliance Director, Cloud SaaS Provider: “I led our SOC 2 Type II audit after completing this course. The templates saved us over 200 hours of work. Our auditor even complimented the clarity of our documentation. This isn’t just education — it’s execution.” Raj K., IT Manager, Fintech Startup: “I was drowning in control spreadsheets. This course gave me the structure to simplify the entire process. We passed our first audit with zero exceptions. The certificate has already opened doors in my career.” Leah T., Solo Consultant: “I doubled my consulting fees after earning this certification. Clients see The Art of Service name and instantly trust my expertise. This was the credibility boost I needed.” Zero Risk. Maximum Reward. Risk-Reversal You Can Trust.
We invert the risk entirely. You gain: lifetime access, expert support, a globally respected certificate, and a 30-day money-back guarantee — all for a one-time fee with no hidden costs. There is no downside. The only risk is not acting — and falling behind while others gain the skills to lead in compliance, governance, and trust. You’re not buying a course. You’re investing in career acceleration, resilience, and recognition — with every safeguard in place to protect your decision.
Extensive & Detailed Course Curriculum
Module 1: Foundations of SOC 2 Compliance - Understanding the purpose and evolution of SOC 2
- Differentiating between SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC 3 reports
- The role of the AICPA and Trust Services Criteria (TSC)
- Key stakeholders in a SOC 2 engagement: auditors, clients, management
- When and why organizations pursue SOC 2 compliance
- Common misconceptions and myths about SOC 2 audits
- The relationship between SOC 2 and other compliance standards (ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR)
- Overview of Type I vs. Type II reports
- Identifying internal readiness: culture, resources, and leadership alignment
- Mapping SOC 2 to business objectives and growth strategy
Module 2: The Five Trust Services Criteria — In-Depth Breakdown - Security (Common Criteria CC): The foundation of all SOC 2 controls
- Confidentiality: Defining and protecting sensitive data
- Processing Integrity: Ensuring data accuracy and reliability
- Availability: Uptime requirements and service level alignment
- Privacy: Mapping PII handling to AICPA privacy principles
- Understanding points of focus for each criterion
- How criteria are combined in real-world reports
- Selecting applicable criteria based on service offerings
- Common gaps in each trust category and how to close them
- Integrating criteria into organizational policies and procedures
Module 3: Governance and Organizational Readiness - Establishing a governance framework for compliance
- Defining roles: Data Owner, Custodian, User, Compliance Officer
- Creating a cross-functional compliance team
- Developing a compliance charter and executive sponsorship model
- Setting realistic timelines and milestones for SOC 2 readiness
- Budgeting for internal and external audit costs
- Aligning SOC 2 goals with C-suite priorities
- Conducting a readiness gap analysis
- Using maturity models to assess organizational capability
- Creating a risk register to track compliance-related threats
Module 4: Control Design and Documentation - What makes a control “effective” and auditor-acceptable
- Differentiating preventive, detective, and corrective controls
- Designing controls that are scalable and sustainable
- Documenting controls using standardized templates
- Writing control descriptions that avoid ambiguity
- Linking controls directly to Trust Services Criteria
- Using control matrices for centralized management
- Version control for policy and control documentation
- Creating a system narrative: architecture, processes, and workflows
- Best practices for organizing and storing control evidence
Module 5: Policy Development and Implementation - Required SOC 2 policies and their scope
- Acceptable Use Policy (AUP): Structure and enforcement
- Password Policy: Complexity, rotation, and MFA requirements
- Access Control Policy: Role-based permissions and least privilege
- Data Classification Policy: Labeling and handling protocols
- Incident Response Policy: Activation, escalation, and communication
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Planning
- Remote Work and BYOD Policies in a hybrid environment
- Vendor Risk Management Policy: Third-party due diligence
- Retention and Archival Policy for logs and records
- Privacy Notice and Consent Management Policy
- Change Management Policy: Approval, testing, rollback
- Physical Security Policy: Data center and office access
- Monitoring and Logging Policy: Collection, retention, review
- Employee Onboarding and Offboarding Procedures
Module 6: Access Management and Identity Controls - Defining user access lifecycle: provision, review, revoke
- Implementing role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) rollout strategies
- Centralizing identity with SSO and directory services
- Privileged access management (PAM) and just-in-time access
- Conducting regular access reviews and attestation
- Handling shared and emergency accounts
- Logging and monitoring failed login attempts
- Automating access provisioning and deprovisioning
- Integrating access controls with HR systems
Module 7: System Monitoring, Logging, and Alerting - Selecting systems to monitor: servers, networks, cloud services
- Centralized logging with SIEM solutions
- Log retention policies aligned with compliance requirements
- Defining critical events: policy violations, breach indicators
- Setting up real-time alerts for anomalous behavior
- Log integrity: preventing tampering and deletion
- Regular log reviews and audit trail maintenance
- Time synchronization across systems (NTP implementation)
- Using logs as evidence during auditor requests
- Integrating monitoring with incident response
Module 8: Change Management and Configuration Control - Establishing a formal change management process
- Standard, normal, and emergency change classification
- Creating a change advisory board (CAB)
- Documentation requirements for each change
- Testing and rollback procedures
- Version control for system configurations
- Automated change detection and drift monitoring
- Integrating change control with DevOps pipelines
- Ensuring segregation of duties in deployment
- Aligning change logs with auditor expectations
Module 9: Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing - Conducting regular vulnerability scans (internal and external)
- Prioritizing vulnerabilities using CVSS scoring
- Patching cadence: critical, high, medium, low severity
- Remediation tracking and closure evidence
- Engaging third-party penetration testers
- Reviewing penetration test reports for findings
- Addressing false positives and environmental constraints
- Integrating findings into risk register and action plans
- Reporting remediation efforts to management
- Using pen test results as SOC 2 evidence
Module 10: Incident Response and Breach Handling - Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
Module 1: Foundations of SOC 2 Compliance - Understanding the purpose and evolution of SOC 2
- Differentiating between SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC 3 reports
- The role of the AICPA and Trust Services Criteria (TSC)
- Key stakeholders in a SOC 2 engagement: auditors, clients, management
- When and why organizations pursue SOC 2 compliance
- Common misconceptions and myths about SOC 2 audits
- The relationship between SOC 2 and other compliance standards (ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR)
- Overview of Type I vs. Type II reports
- Identifying internal readiness: culture, resources, and leadership alignment
- Mapping SOC 2 to business objectives and growth strategy
Module 2: The Five Trust Services Criteria — In-Depth Breakdown - Security (Common Criteria CC): The foundation of all SOC 2 controls
- Confidentiality: Defining and protecting sensitive data
- Processing Integrity: Ensuring data accuracy and reliability
- Availability: Uptime requirements and service level alignment
- Privacy: Mapping PII handling to AICPA privacy principles
- Understanding points of focus for each criterion
- How criteria are combined in real-world reports
- Selecting applicable criteria based on service offerings
- Common gaps in each trust category and how to close them
- Integrating criteria into organizational policies and procedures
Module 3: Governance and Organizational Readiness - Establishing a governance framework for compliance
- Defining roles: Data Owner, Custodian, User, Compliance Officer
- Creating a cross-functional compliance team
- Developing a compliance charter and executive sponsorship model
- Setting realistic timelines and milestones for SOC 2 readiness
- Budgeting for internal and external audit costs
- Aligning SOC 2 goals with C-suite priorities
- Conducting a readiness gap analysis
- Using maturity models to assess organizational capability
- Creating a risk register to track compliance-related threats
Module 4: Control Design and Documentation - What makes a control “effective” and auditor-acceptable
- Differentiating preventive, detective, and corrective controls
- Designing controls that are scalable and sustainable
- Documenting controls using standardized templates
- Writing control descriptions that avoid ambiguity
- Linking controls directly to Trust Services Criteria
- Using control matrices for centralized management
- Version control for policy and control documentation
- Creating a system narrative: architecture, processes, and workflows
- Best practices for organizing and storing control evidence
Module 5: Policy Development and Implementation - Required SOC 2 policies and their scope
- Acceptable Use Policy (AUP): Structure and enforcement
- Password Policy: Complexity, rotation, and MFA requirements
- Access Control Policy: Role-based permissions and least privilege
- Data Classification Policy: Labeling and handling protocols
- Incident Response Policy: Activation, escalation, and communication
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Planning
- Remote Work and BYOD Policies in a hybrid environment
- Vendor Risk Management Policy: Third-party due diligence
- Retention and Archival Policy for logs and records
- Privacy Notice and Consent Management Policy
- Change Management Policy: Approval, testing, rollback
- Physical Security Policy: Data center and office access
- Monitoring and Logging Policy: Collection, retention, review
- Employee Onboarding and Offboarding Procedures
Module 6: Access Management and Identity Controls - Defining user access lifecycle: provision, review, revoke
- Implementing role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) rollout strategies
- Centralizing identity with SSO and directory services
- Privileged access management (PAM) and just-in-time access
- Conducting regular access reviews and attestation
- Handling shared and emergency accounts
- Logging and monitoring failed login attempts
- Automating access provisioning and deprovisioning
- Integrating access controls with HR systems
Module 7: System Monitoring, Logging, and Alerting - Selecting systems to monitor: servers, networks, cloud services
- Centralized logging with SIEM solutions
- Log retention policies aligned with compliance requirements
- Defining critical events: policy violations, breach indicators
- Setting up real-time alerts for anomalous behavior
- Log integrity: preventing tampering and deletion
- Regular log reviews and audit trail maintenance
- Time synchronization across systems (NTP implementation)
- Using logs as evidence during auditor requests
- Integrating monitoring with incident response
Module 8: Change Management and Configuration Control - Establishing a formal change management process
- Standard, normal, and emergency change classification
- Creating a change advisory board (CAB)
- Documentation requirements for each change
- Testing and rollback procedures
- Version control for system configurations
- Automated change detection and drift monitoring
- Integrating change control with DevOps pipelines
- Ensuring segregation of duties in deployment
- Aligning change logs with auditor expectations
Module 9: Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing - Conducting regular vulnerability scans (internal and external)
- Prioritizing vulnerabilities using CVSS scoring
- Patching cadence: critical, high, medium, low severity
- Remediation tracking and closure evidence
- Engaging third-party penetration testers
- Reviewing penetration test reports for findings
- Addressing false positives and environmental constraints
- Integrating findings into risk register and action plans
- Reporting remediation efforts to management
- Using pen test results as SOC 2 evidence
Module 10: Incident Response and Breach Handling - Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Security (Common Criteria CC): The foundation of all SOC 2 controls
- Confidentiality: Defining and protecting sensitive data
- Processing Integrity: Ensuring data accuracy and reliability
- Availability: Uptime requirements and service level alignment
- Privacy: Mapping PII handling to AICPA privacy principles
- Understanding points of focus for each criterion
- How criteria are combined in real-world reports
- Selecting applicable criteria based on service offerings
- Common gaps in each trust category and how to close them
- Integrating criteria into organizational policies and procedures
Module 3: Governance and Organizational Readiness - Establishing a governance framework for compliance
- Defining roles: Data Owner, Custodian, User, Compliance Officer
- Creating a cross-functional compliance team
- Developing a compliance charter and executive sponsorship model
- Setting realistic timelines and milestones for SOC 2 readiness
- Budgeting for internal and external audit costs
- Aligning SOC 2 goals with C-suite priorities
- Conducting a readiness gap analysis
- Using maturity models to assess organizational capability
- Creating a risk register to track compliance-related threats
Module 4: Control Design and Documentation - What makes a control “effective” and auditor-acceptable
- Differentiating preventive, detective, and corrective controls
- Designing controls that are scalable and sustainable
- Documenting controls using standardized templates
- Writing control descriptions that avoid ambiguity
- Linking controls directly to Trust Services Criteria
- Using control matrices for centralized management
- Version control for policy and control documentation
- Creating a system narrative: architecture, processes, and workflows
- Best practices for organizing and storing control evidence
Module 5: Policy Development and Implementation - Required SOC 2 policies and their scope
- Acceptable Use Policy (AUP): Structure and enforcement
- Password Policy: Complexity, rotation, and MFA requirements
- Access Control Policy: Role-based permissions and least privilege
- Data Classification Policy: Labeling and handling protocols
- Incident Response Policy: Activation, escalation, and communication
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Planning
- Remote Work and BYOD Policies in a hybrid environment
- Vendor Risk Management Policy: Third-party due diligence
- Retention and Archival Policy for logs and records
- Privacy Notice and Consent Management Policy
- Change Management Policy: Approval, testing, rollback
- Physical Security Policy: Data center and office access
- Monitoring and Logging Policy: Collection, retention, review
- Employee Onboarding and Offboarding Procedures
Module 6: Access Management and Identity Controls - Defining user access lifecycle: provision, review, revoke
- Implementing role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) rollout strategies
- Centralizing identity with SSO and directory services
- Privileged access management (PAM) and just-in-time access
- Conducting regular access reviews and attestation
- Handling shared and emergency accounts
- Logging and monitoring failed login attempts
- Automating access provisioning and deprovisioning
- Integrating access controls with HR systems
Module 7: System Monitoring, Logging, and Alerting - Selecting systems to monitor: servers, networks, cloud services
- Centralized logging with SIEM solutions
- Log retention policies aligned with compliance requirements
- Defining critical events: policy violations, breach indicators
- Setting up real-time alerts for anomalous behavior
- Log integrity: preventing tampering and deletion
- Regular log reviews and audit trail maintenance
- Time synchronization across systems (NTP implementation)
- Using logs as evidence during auditor requests
- Integrating monitoring with incident response
Module 8: Change Management and Configuration Control - Establishing a formal change management process
- Standard, normal, and emergency change classification
- Creating a change advisory board (CAB)
- Documentation requirements for each change
- Testing and rollback procedures
- Version control for system configurations
- Automated change detection and drift monitoring
- Integrating change control with DevOps pipelines
- Ensuring segregation of duties in deployment
- Aligning change logs with auditor expectations
Module 9: Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing - Conducting regular vulnerability scans (internal and external)
- Prioritizing vulnerabilities using CVSS scoring
- Patching cadence: critical, high, medium, low severity
- Remediation tracking and closure evidence
- Engaging third-party penetration testers
- Reviewing penetration test reports for findings
- Addressing false positives and environmental constraints
- Integrating findings into risk register and action plans
- Reporting remediation efforts to management
- Using pen test results as SOC 2 evidence
Module 10: Incident Response and Breach Handling - Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- What makes a control “effective” and auditor-acceptable
- Differentiating preventive, detective, and corrective controls
- Designing controls that are scalable and sustainable
- Documenting controls using standardized templates
- Writing control descriptions that avoid ambiguity
- Linking controls directly to Trust Services Criteria
- Using control matrices for centralized management
- Version control for policy and control documentation
- Creating a system narrative: architecture, processes, and workflows
- Best practices for organizing and storing control evidence
Module 5: Policy Development and Implementation - Required SOC 2 policies and their scope
- Acceptable Use Policy (AUP): Structure and enforcement
- Password Policy: Complexity, rotation, and MFA requirements
- Access Control Policy: Role-based permissions and least privilege
- Data Classification Policy: Labeling and handling protocols
- Incident Response Policy: Activation, escalation, and communication
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Planning
- Remote Work and BYOD Policies in a hybrid environment
- Vendor Risk Management Policy: Third-party due diligence
- Retention and Archival Policy for logs and records
- Privacy Notice and Consent Management Policy
- Change Management Policy: Approval, testing, rollback
- Physical Security Policy: Data center and office access
- Monitoring and Logging Policy: Collection, retention, review
- Employee Onboarding and Offboarding Procedures
Module 6: Access Management and Identity Controls - Defining user access lifecycle: provision, review, revoke
- Implementing role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) rollout strategies
- Centralizing identity with SSO and directory services
- Privileged access management (PAM) and just-in-time access
- Conducting regular access reviews and attestation
- Handling shared and emergency accounts
- Logging and monitoring failed login attempts
- Automating access provisioning and deprovisioning
- Integrating access controls with HR systems
Module 7: System Monitoring, Logging, and Alerting - Selecting systems to monitor: servers, networks, cloud services
- Centralized logging with SIEM solutions
- Log retention policies aligned with compliance requirements
- Defining critical events: policy violations, breach indicators
- Setting up real-time alerts for anomalous behavior
- Log integrity: preventing tampering and deletion
- Regular log reviews and audit trail maintenance
- Time synchronization across systems (NTP implementation)
- Using logs as evidence during auditor requests
- Integrating monitoring with incident response
Module 8: Change Management and Configuration Control - Establishing a formal change management process
- Standard, normal, and emergency change classification
- Creating a change advisory board (CAB)
- Documentation requirements for each change
- Testing and rollback procedures
- Version control for system configurations
- Automated change detection and drift monitoring
- Integrating change control with DevOps pipelines
- Ensuring segregation of duties in deployment
- Aligning change logs with auditor expectations
Module 9: Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing - Conducting regular vulnerability scans (internal and external)
- Prioritizing vulnerabilities using CVSS scoring
- Patching cadence: critical, high, medium, low severity
- Remediation tracking and closure evidence
- Engaging third-party penetration testers
- Reviewing penetration test reports for findings
- Addressing false positives and environmental constraints
- Integrating findings into risk register and action plans
- Reporting remediation efforts to management
- Using pen test results as SOC 2 evidence
Module 10: Incident Response and Breach Handling - Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Defining user access lifecycle: provision, review, revoke
- Implementing role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) rollout strategies
- Centralizing identity with SSO and directory services
- Privileged access management (PAM) and just-in-time access
- Conducting regular access reviews and attestation
- Handling shared and emergency accounts
- Logging and monitoring failed login attempts
- Automating access provisioning and deprovisioning
- Integrating access controls with HR systems
Module 7: System Monitoring, Logging, and Alerting - Selecting systems to monitor: servers, networks, cloud services
- Centralized logging with SIEM solutions
- Log retention policies aligned with compliance requirements
- Defining critical events: policy violations, breach indicators
- Setting up real-time alerts for anomalous behavior
- Log integrity: preventing tampering and deletion
- Regular log reviews and audit trail maintenance
- Time synchronization across systems (NTP implementation)
- Using logs as evidence during auditor requests
- Integrating monitoring with incident response
Module 8: Change Management and Configuration Control - Establishing a formal change management process
- Standard, normal, and emergency change classification
- Creating a change advisory board (CAB)
- Documentation requirements for each change
- Testing and rollback procedures
- Version control for system configurations
- Automated change detection and drift monitoring
- Integrating change control with DevOps pipelines
- Ensuring segregation of duties in deployment
- Aligning change logs with auditor expectations
Module 9: Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing - Conducting regular vulnerability scans (internal and external)
- Prioritizing vulnerabilities using CVSS scoring
- Patching cadence: critical, high, medium, low severity
- Remediation tracking and closure evidence
- Engaging third-party penetration testers
- Reviewing penetration test reports for findings
- Addressing false positives and environmental constraints
- Integrating findings into risk register and action plans
- Reporting remediation efforts to management
- Using pen test results as SOC 2 evidence
Module 10: Incident Response and Breach Handling - Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Establishing a formal change management process
- Standard, normal, and emergency change classification
- Creating a change advisory board (CAB)
- Documentation requirements for each change
- Testing and rollback procedures
- Version control for system configurations
- Automated change detection and drift monitoring
- Integrating change control with DevOps pipelines
- Ensuring segregation of duties in deployment
- Aligning change logs with auditor expectations
Module 9: Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing - Conducting regular vulnerability scans (internal and external)
- Prioritizing vulnerabilities using CVSS scoring
- Patching cadence: critical, high, medium, low severity
- Remediation tracking and closure evidence
- Engaging third-party penetration testers
- Reviewing penetration test reports for findings
- Addressing false positives and environmental constraints
- Integrating findings into risk register and action plans
- Reporting remediation efforts to management
- Using pen test results as SOC 2 evidence
Module 10: Incident Response and Breach Handling - Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Defining what constitutes a security incident
- Creating an incident response team (IRT)
- Incident classification and severity levels
- Step-by-step incident handling process
- Containment strategies: isolation, suspension, blocking
- Eradication and recovery procedures
- Forensic data collection and preservation
- Reporting incidents to regulators and clients
- Post-incident reviews and lessons learned
- Testing incident response with tabletop exercises
- Maintaining an incident log for auditor review
Module 11: Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - Conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
- Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO)
- Creating and maintaining a disaster recovery plan (DRP)
- Backup strategies: full, incremental, differential
- Cloud-native backup solutions and redundancy
- Testing backups regularly for integrity and restoration
- Failover and failback procedures
- Maintaining offsite data storage
- Communication plans during outages
- Conducting disaster recovery drills and documentation
Module 12: Physical and Environmental Security - Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Securing physical access to data centers and server rooms
- Using keycards, biometrics, and visitor logs
- Surveillance systems and monitoring protocols
- Environmental controls: fire suppression, HVAC, power
- UPS and generator backup systems
- Securing mobile devices and laptops
- Handling hardware disposal and data destruction
- Secure storage of backup media
- Vendor access to physical facilities
- Documenting physical security in system descriptions
Module 13: Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management - Identifying vendors in scope for SOC 2
- Conducting vendor risk assessments
- Implementing vendor due diligence questionnaires
- Reviewing vendor SOC 2 reports and other attestations
- Establishing contractual obligations for security
- Monitoring vendor compliance status continuously
- Handling subprocessors and fourth-party relationships
- Creating a vendor risk register
- Terminating relationships securely
- Documenting vendor oversight for auditors
Module 14: Data Encryption and Protection - Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Encrypting data at rest: AES-256 implementation
- Encrypting data in transit: TLS 1.2+ configurations
- Key management best practices and rotation schedules
- Using HSMs and cloud key management services (KMS)
- Securing encryption keys and certificates
- Handling data in memory and temporary storage
- Masking and tokenization of sensitive data
- Securing databases and configuration files
- Implementing secure deletion and wiping
- Aligning encryption practices with auditor expectations
Module 15: Audit Preparation and Evidence Collection - Understanding the auditor’s evidence requirements
- Creating an evidence checklist by control objective
- Gathering policy documents, logs, and screenshots
- Preparing system configuration reports
- Conducting internal control testing
- Interview preparation: what auditors will ask
- Organizing evidence in a secure, searchable repository
- Redacting sensitive information appropriately
- Using timestamps and digital signatures for integrity
- Avoiding common evidence pitfalls and auditor pushback
Module 16: Working with SOC 2 Auditors - Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Selecting a qualified CPA firm for SOC 2 audits
- Understanding auditor independence and scope
- Preparing for entrance and exit meetings
- Responding to auditor inquiries professionally
- Negotiating scope and evidence presentation
- Handling auditor findings and suggested improvements
- Reviewing draft SOC 2 reports for accuracy
- Finalizing the report and distribution controls
- Maintaining auditor documentation for future cycles
- Building long-term relationships with audit firms
Module 17: Advanced Topics in SOC 2 and Continuous Compliance - Maintaining compliance between audit cycles
- Automating control monitoring with GRC platforms
- Integrating SOC 2 with ISO 27001, HITRUST, or NIST
- Handling organizational changes: M&A, cloud migration
- Updating system narratives for new services
- Managing scope creep in SOC 2 reporting
- Implementing continuous improvement loops
- Training new employees on SOC 2 responsibilities
- Conducting annual risk assessments
- Preparing for surprise auditor follow-ups
Module 18: Certification, Next Steps, and Career Advancement - Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education
- Finalizing your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Adding your certification to LinkedIn and professional profiles
- Highlighting SOC 2 expertise in resumes and job interviews
- Using certification to negotiate promotions or higher fees
- Pursuing advanced roles: Compliance Officer, GRC Lead, CISO
- Transitioning from technical roles to governance and risk
- Speaking confidently about SOC 2 with executives and clients
- Becoming an internal trainer or compliance champion
- Staying updated with AICPA guidance and changes
- Joining professional communities and continuing education