SOC 2 Type 1 vs Type 2: Which One Does Your Startup Need?
When a customer asks "are you SOC 2?", they usually mean "do you have a SOC 2 report?" There are two kinds, and choosing the right one first can save months.
The short version
- Type 1 evaluates whether your controls are suitably designed at a single point in time.
- Type 2 evaluates whether your controls operated effectively over a period, typically three to twelve months.
Type 1 says "we have good controls today." Type 2 says "our controls have actually worked, consistently, for months."
Comparison
| Type 1 | Type 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| What it tests | Design of controls | Design and operating effectiveness |
| Time frame | A single date | An observation period, often 3 to 12 months |
| Time to first report | Faster | Slower, includes the observation window |
| Evidence required | Policies, configurations, screenshots | Samples of evidence across the whole period |
| Customer perception | A good start | The standard most enterprises want |
Which should you start with?
Many startups get a Type 1 first because it is faster, and it unblocks deals with customers who accept it. They then start the Type 2 observation period immediately and deliver a Type 2 report later. Others go straight to Type 2 with a short initial period, such as three months, if their customers will not accept Type 1.
Ask your largest prospects which they require. That answer usually decides it.
How penetration testing fits each type
For Type 1, the auditor wants to see that a vulnerability management and testing control exists. A recent pentest, findings and remediation tickets demonstrate the design.
For Type 2, the auditor samples evidence across the observation period. They may want to see:
- Testing that occurred within the period.
- Findings tracked to remediation according to your policy timelines.
- Ongoing vulnerability scanning or continuous testing.
A single test months before the period starts is weak evidence for Type 2. Continuous testing produces evidence throughout the period automatically.
Common mistakes
- Writing policies you do not follow. Type 2 will catch it. Write policies that match what you actually do.
- Leaving testing to the last minute. Run the pentest early, so there is time to fix findings and retest within the period.
- Scoping too much. Include the systems that deliver your service to customers, not every internal tool.
- Ignoring the report's audience. Customers read SOC 2 reports. Clear system descriptions and clean exceptions matter.
Getting testing evidence early
The fastest way to strengthen either type is to test now. SecurityInfinity produces a verified pentest report in about ten minutes, and you can rerun it throughout your observation period to show continuous testing and remediation. Start free.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a SOC 2 Type 2 observation period?
It can range from three to twelve months. First-time reports often use a shorter period, with later reports covering twelve months.
Is SOC 2 a certification?
Not technically. SOC 2 is an attestation report issued by a CPA firm. People commonly say "certified," but the accurate term is a SOC 2 report.
Do we need a new report every year?
Yes. Customers typically expect a Type 2 report covering a recent period, renewed annually.