Top 10 ISO 27001 Certification Companies Leading Global Security

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ISO/IEC 27001 stands out as the most trusted standard for managing information security risks in cybersecurity. Whether you’re a startup protecting user data or a large enterprise managing sensitive assets, ISO 27001 certification shows clients, regulators, and partners that you take security seriously.

In this guide, we’ll explore why ISO 27001 certification matters, top ISO 27001 certification companies, and get expert advice on selecting the right certification partner to fit your goals.

Why Get ISO 27001 Certification?

ISO 27001 certification is a strategic move, not just a compliance checkbox, demonstrating serious commitment to information security. Thousands of businesses invest in it for key benefits:

Enhanced Data Protection

It forces you to identify assets, assess risks, and implement controls, drastically reducing chances of data breaches, ransomware, or internal leaks.

Regulatory and Legal Compliance

ISO 27001 principles align with global privacy regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and NIS2. Certification shows commitment to data protection, lowering legal risk.

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Competitive Advantage

It acts as a trust signal for clients, partners, and investors. This sets you apart in procurement, especially in tech, finance, healthcare, and legal sectors.

Operational Efficiency

The standard’s structured approach improves documentation, reduces security incidents, and strengthens risk management.

Top 10 Global ISO 27001 Certification Companies

Securing your information assets with ISO 27001 involves partnering with the right experts. Understanding the roles of certification companies(who audit and certify your ISMS) and accreditation bodies (who validate the competence of certification firms) is essential.

To simplify your search for a reputable provider, we present a curated list of the top 10 global certification companies and their overseeing accreditation bodies.

For assured credibility and international recognition, always confirm that your chosen certification body holds valid accreditation from a recognized national accreditation authority.

The world’s leading ISO 27001 certification companies are distinguished by their extensive auditing expertise, global reach, and comprehensive portfolio of information security standards.

Here’s an expanded, moderate-length description for each of the top ISO 27001 Certification Companies and Accreditation Bodies:

1. BSI (British Standards Institution)

As one of the foundational creators of ISO standards, BSI holds a preeminent position in the certification world, synonymous with stringent quality and professionalism. Their ISO 27001 audits are renowned for their rigor, ensuring comprehensive adherence to information security best practices.

Opting for BSI means choosing a globally recognized and highly respected certifier, making them a top contender for organizations seeking a gold-standard certification.

Pros:

• UKAS-Accredited and Globally Trusted: Their accreditation from the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) underscores their commitment to the highest standards, making their certifications widely accepted worldwide.
• Decades of Experience Across Industries: BSI brings unparalleled experience, having worked with diverse organizations across virtually every sector, which translates into a deep understanding of varied operational contexts.
• Deep Documentation and Training Support: They provide extensive resources, including detailed guidance and training programs, to help organizations prepare for and maintain their ISO 27001 certification.
• Ideal for Large Enterprises: Their robust processes and global footprint make them perfectly suited for complex, multinational corporations requiring comprehensive and consistent certification across their operations.

Cons:

• May be Overkill for Startups or SMBs: The depth and formality of BSI’s processes might be more extensive than necessary for smaller, less complex organizations.
• Pricing is on the Higher End: Reflecting their premium service and global standing, BSI’s certification costs are generally at the higher end of the spectrum.

2. TÜV SÜD

TÜV SÜD is a highly respected European certification body with a strong reputation for technical audits and an engineering-oriented approach. While rooted in Germany, their global expansion makes them a compelling choice for companies operating with intricate systems or a multi-country presence. Their audits are known for being thorough, leveraging deep technical expertise to ensure robust information security.

Pros:

• Highly Technical and Thorough Auditors: TÜV SÜD’s auditors are distinguished by their strong technical backgrounds, leading to meticulous and in-depth assessments of your ISMS.
• DAkkS-Accredited (Germany’s Top Accreditation Body): Accreditation from DAkkS, Germany’s national accreditation body, signifies their adherence to rigorous quality and impartiality standards, reinforcing global trust.
• Fast Audit Timelines: Despite their thoroughness, TÜV SÜD is often praised for efficient audit scheduling and turnaround times, helping organizations achieve certification promptly.
• Strong Presence in Key Sectors: They possess a particularly strong foothold and specialized knowledge in the manufacturing, automotive, and IT sectors, making them ideal for companies in these industries.
• Offers Integrated Certifications: Beyond ISO 27001, TÜV SÜD frequently offers integrated audits for other crucial standards like ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), streamlining the certification process for multi-standard compliance.

Cons:

• May be Too Formal for Small or Non-Technical Startups: Their structured and technical approach might feel less flexible or overly formal for agile small businesses or those without an engineering focus.
• Documentation Requirements Can Feel Rigid: Organizations may find TÜV SÜD’s requirements for documentation to be quite stringent and prescriptive, demanding meticulous preparation.

3. NQA (National Quality Assurance)

NQA has emerged as a favored choice among small and mid-sized businesses, particularly within the UK and North America. Their approach is characterized by transparency in pricing and a process that is widely regarded as business-friendly and less daunting compared to some larger, more traditional certifiers. NQA aims to make the certification journey accessible and straightforward, focusing on practical application.

Pros:

• UKAS- and ANAB-Accredited: Holding accreditation from both UKAS (UK) and ANAB (US) ensures broad international acceptance and adherence to high-quality standards.
• Strong in Cloud, Software, and Services: NQA has developed particular expertise and a strong client base within the dynamic cloud, software development, and services industries, understanding their unique security challenges.
• Faster Onboarding and Certification: They are known for an efficient onboarding process and typically quicker certification timelines, which is beneficial for businesses with urgent compliance needs.
• Offers Helpful Readiness Assessments and Templates: NQA often provides valuable pre-audit support, including readiness assessments and practical templates, to help organizations prepare effectively.
• Cost-Effective for Small Teams: Their pricing structure and streamlined processes make them a more budget-friendly option, especially for smaller organizations or those with limited resources.

Cons:

• May Lack Depth in Highly Regulated Industries: While competent, NQA might not possess the specialized, in-depth experience required by organizations operating in exceptionally complex or highly regulated sectors.
• Smaller Global Footprint Compared to SGS or BSI: While growing, their international presence is not as extensive as some of the larger global players, which could be a consideration for multinational corporations.

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4. Intertek

Intertek stands as a global powerhouse in the realm of testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services. With a reputation for rigorous quality checks across various industries, their ISO 27001 audit process is highly structured and places a significant emphasis on thorough documentation. This methodical approach makes Intertek an excellent choice for organizations operating within strictly regulated environments where meticulous compliance is paramount.

Pros:

• Trusted by Fortune 500 Companies: Their extensive client list includes major global corporations, attesting to their reliability and the high regard in which their certifications are held.
• Offers Full-Service Certification Across Many ISO Standards: Intertek provides a comprehensive suite of certification services for numerous ISO standards, enabling organizations to manage multiple certifications with a single provider.
• Strong Focus on Compliance and Risk: Their auditing methodology heavily emphasizes regulatory compliance and robust risk management, aligning well with organizations that face complex compliance landscapes.
• Available Worldwide: With a vast network of offices and laboratories globally, Intertek offers consistent service delivery across different geographical regions.

Cons:

• Less Suited for Fast-Moving SaaS or Startups: The highly structured and documentation-heavy nature of their audits might be less agile or flexible for rapidly evolving SaaS companies or lean startups.
• Can Feel Bureaucratic for Smaller Firms: Smaller organizations might perceive Intertek’s processes as somewhat bureaucratic or overly formal, potentially leading to a less personalized experience.

5. SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance)

SGS is unequivocally one of the world’s foremost inspection, verification, testing, and certification companies. With an expansive operational presence in over 100 countries, SGS is particularly popular among large enterprises and multinational corporations that require globally accepted ISO certificates for their diverse operations. Their reputation is built on consistency, process discipline, and wide recognition.

Pros:

• UKAS- and ANAB-Accredited: Holding dual accreditation from UKAS (UK) and ANAB (US) signifies their commitment to international quality standards and ensures broad acceptance of their certifications.
• Lightning-Fast Certification in Some Cases: While not guaranteed for all audits, SGS is sometimes noted for their efficiency and ability to expedite the certification process for well-prepared organizations.
• Widely Accepted Worldwide: Due to their extensive global network and long-standing reputation, an SGS certification is highly recognized and respected across international markets.
• Known for Process Discipline: SGS’s auditors are celebrated for their methodical and disciplined approach, ensuring a thorough and consistent audit experience.

Cons:

• Limited Hand-Holding for First-Timers: Organizations new to ISO 27001 or certification processes might find SGS’s approach less hands-on or supportive, assuming a certain level of preparedness.
• May Feel Transactional if You’re Looking for Consultative Support: If an organization desires a more collaborative or consultative relationship with their certifier, SGS’s streamlined, process-driven approach might feel more like a transactional service.

6. DNV (Det Norske Veritas)

DNV is a highly respected certifier, particularly noted for its strong focus on sustainability and its risk-based auditing model. While historically prominent in the maritime and energy sectors, DNV has successfully expanded its expertise to encompass tech, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their audits are characterized by a strategic approach, often providing deep insights into an organization’s risk landscape and opportunities for improvement beyond mere compliance.

Pros:

• Sustainability-First Approach: DNV integrates sustainability principles into its auditing philosophy, appealing to organizations with a strong commitment to environmental and social governance.
• Excellent for Regulated Sectors: Their deep understanding of risk and compliance makes them an ideal partner for businesses operating in highly regulated industries.
• Strong ISO Integration: DNV excels at offering integrated management system certifications, allowing organizations to combine audits for ISO 27001, ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 22301 (Business Continuity), and other standards efficiently.
• Global Presence with Nordic Precision: Their worldwide reach, combined with a reputation for meticulousness and high standards often associated with Nordic approaches, ensures consistent quality.

Cons:

• Not the Cheapest: DNV’s specialized expertise and comprehensive approach typically come with a higher price tag compared to some other certifiers.
• Their Risk-Based Audit Model May Not Appeal to All Organizations: While beneficial for many, organizations seeking a more prescriptive or checklist-driven audit might find DNV’s strategic, risk-focused methodology less straightforward.

7. Bureau Veritas

Bureau Veritas, with its origins in France, brings a formidable legacy of technical audit strength to the certification arena. While they’ve established a robust reputation across sectors like logistics, energy, construction, and maritime, they also proficiently cater to the evolving needs of SaaS companies and enterprise IT divisions. Their audits are known for their technical depth and rigorous adherence to procedural integrity.

Pros:

• UKAS-Accredited: Their accreditation by UKAS ensures international recognition and confidence in their certification services.
• Covers 140+ Countries: With an extensive global footprint, Bureau Veritas can provide consistent certification services to multinational organizations across a wide range of territories.
• Technical and Procedural Audit Depth: Their auditors possess strong technical knowledge and meticulously review an organization’s processes and controls, ensuring robust compliance.
• Consistent Certification Timelines: Organizations often report predictable and consistent timelines for the audit and certification process, aiding in planning.

Cons:

• Heavier Documentation Burden: Similar to some other large certifiers, Bureau Veritas may have more extensive documentation requirements, which can demand considerable preparation from the client.
• Their Style May Not Suit Informal or Agile Startups: The formal and structured audit approach might feel less adaptable or comfortable for very informal or rapidly agile startup environments.

8. Schellman

Schellman is rapidly gaining prominence in the US market, particularly favored by SaaS and cloud-first companies. They stand out for their specialization in highly relevant certifications for the tech industry, including ISO 27001, SOC 2, FedRAMP, and PCI. A significant advantage is their ability to conduct combo audits, streamlining the compliance process for organizations needing multiple attestations.

Pros:

• ANAB-Accredited: Their accreditation by ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board) ensures their certifications are recognized and trusted within North America and internationally.
• Ideal for Fast-Growing SaaS and Tech Startups: Schellman’s deep understanding of cloud environments and agile development methodologies makes them a perfect fit for dynamic tech companies.
• Offers ISO + SOC 2 Combo Audits: This is a major benefit, allowing companies to achieve multiple critical compliance certifications efficiently through a single audit process.
• Deep Cloud Security Experience: Their auditors possess specialized expertise in cloud security challenges and best practices, crucial for modern tech businesses.
• One of the Fastest ISO Certifiers: Schellman is often cited for its efficiency and relatively quick turnaround times in delivering ISO 27001 certifications.

Cons:

• US-Focused, with Limited Offices Outside North America: While they serve global clients, their physical presence and primary focus remain strong in the North American market, which might be a consideration for truly global companies seeking local support elsewhere.
• Premium Pricing: Reflecting their specialized expertise and efficient services for the tech sector, Schellman’s pricing is generally at the higher end of the spectrum.

9. EY CertifyPoint

EY CertifyPoint operates as a specialized division under the global professional services giant Ernst & Young, providing dedicated ISO certification services primarily to large enterprises. Their client roster typically includes multinational financial institutions and significant cloud vendors, underscoring their expertise in highly regulated and complex corporate environments. They are known for tailoring their audit processes to meet the specific demands of such large-scale operations.

Pros:

• Ideal for Highly Regulated and Complex Firms: Their extensive experience with large-scale, intricate, and heavily regulated organizations makes them an excellent fit for similar businesses.
• Dutch-Accredited and Internationally Accepted: Holding accreditation from the Dutch Accreditation Council (RvA) ensures their certifications are robust and widely recognized globally.
• Tailored Audit Process for Large Enterprises: They are adept at customizing their audit methodologies to accommodate the unique structures, systems, and requirements of very large organizations.
• Strong Focus on Quality and Depth: Their audits are characterized by a meticulous focus on quality assurance and a deep dive into an organization’s information security posture.

Cons:

• Slower Certification Timelines: Given the complexity of their typical clientele and their thorough approach, certification timelines with EY CertifyPoint can sometimes be longer.
• Expensive for Smaller Companies: Their services are designed and priced for large enterprises, making them prohibitively expensive for small and medium-sized businesses.
• More Suitable for Fortune 500-Type Clients: Their operational model and pricing are predominantly aligned with the needs and budgets of very large corporations.

10. PECB (Professional Evaluation and Certification Board)

PECB offers a distinct approach to ISO certification, uniquely blending training with certification services. While they may not always be the first name that comes to mind for large-scale ISO 27001 certifications, they present an attractive, affordable, and educational pathway, particularly beneficial for small teams, individual consultants, or organizations looking to build internal expertise alongside certification.

Pros:

• Offers Training + Certification Bundles: A key differentiator is their ability to provide integrated packages that combine ISO 27001 training courses with the certification audit, streamlining the learning and compliance process.
• Affordable Pricing: PECB is generally considered a more budget-friendly option, making ISO 27001 certification more accessible to a wider range of organizations.
• Flexible Audit Timelines: They are often noted for their flexibility in scheduling and adapting audit timelines to the client’s needs, which can be advantageous for smaller, agile teams.
• Recognized in Many Countries: While perhaps not as universally known as the very largest global players, PECB certifications are recognized and accepted in numerous countries worldwide.

Cons:

• Not Always Accepted by Enterprise Clients: In some cases, very large enterprise clients or specific tenders might prefer certifications from more traditionally established or globally recognized certification bodies.
• May Require Additional Validation for Tenders: For competitive tenders or specific contractual requirements, an organization holding a PECB certification might occasionally need to provide additional details or validation to demonstrate its credibility compared to a BSI or SGS certification.

Choosing Your ISO 27001 Certifier: Key Factors

Choosing the right ISO 27001 certification company is vital. Consider these factors:

• Accreditation Status: Ensure the certifier is accredited by a reputable body (e.g., UKAS, ANAB). Look for their accreditation mark.
• ISO 27001 Expertise: Choose a certifier with a proven track record in ISO 27001 audits , ideally in your size and industry (e.g., cloud security for tech).
• Reputation & Reviews: Research their industry reputation and read testimonials or feedback from other companies.
• Industry Expertise & Scope: Confirm auditors understand your sector (e.g., healthcare, finance) and relevant regulations (e.g., HIPAA, PCI-DSS) alongside ISO 27001.
• Pricing: Request detailed quotes. Compare total costs and pricing structures (fixed fee vs. daily rates), ensuring transparency based on IAF guidelines.

What About Automated Platform, SecureSlate?

Certifying directly with a body can be time-consuming. That’s where automated compliance platforms like SecureSlate come in. While SecureSlate doesn’t issue certificates themselves, they prepare your organization for a successful audit through:

• Gap analysis
• Automated control mapping
• Policy libraries
• Risk assessment templates
• Audit readiness dashboards

Why it matters : You’ll save time, reduce cost, and avoid surprises during your audit. Many companies pair SecureSlate with a certifier like BSI or Schellman to streamline the process.

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Conclusion

ISO 27001 certification is a strategic investment in trust, security, and operational resilience. But that investment only pays off when paired with the right certification partner.

Whether you’re a lean startup aiming for fast-track compliance or a global enterprise managing complex risks, the companies featured in this guide offer credible, accredited pathways to certification. From industry giants like BSI and SGS to tech-focused players like Schellman, there’s a certifier that fits your scale, sector, and budget.

The key is to match your organization’s needs; speed, support, sector knowledge, with the right level of auditing rigor and global recognition. And if you’re new to the process, platforms like SecureSlate can smooth the road ahead by making your audit prep faster, easier, and audit-ready.

Choose wisely, get certified confidently, and prove to the world that your information security is anything but an afterthought.

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