AICPA SOC 3 vs SOC 2
What is the difference between AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2?
AICPA SOC 3 is a other framework applying in the United States, with 22 controls across 13 domains. SOC 2 is a other framework applying in the United States, with 61 controls across 5 domains. Both govern the same subject, so their requirements overlap; the mapping below shows which controls carry across and which are asked for by only one of them.
AICPA SOC 322 controls
SOC 261 controls
Questions people ask about AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2
What is the difference between AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2?
AICPA SOC 3 has 22 controls while SOC 2 has 61 controls. Both frameworks address compliance requirements but differ in scope, focus, and applicability. Use our platform to explore the exact control-to-control mappings.
Do I need both AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2?
Whether you need both depends on your industry, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. Many organizations implement multiple frameworks simultaneously. Our compliance platform helps you map controls between AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2 so you can identify shared requirements and avoid duplicate effort.
How do AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2 controls map to each other?
Our platform maps controls between AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2 at a granular level. Each mapping shows whether controls are fully aligned, partially aligned, or represent gaps. This helps you prioritize implementation when pursuing both frameworks.
Which framework should I implement first, AICPA SOC 3 or SOC 2?
The best starting point depends on your specific regulatory requirements, industry, and customer demands. Consider which framework is most urgently required by your stakeholders or regulators. Use our free compliance platform to run a gap analysis and determine the optimal implementation sequence.
Each framework on its own
Comparisons people read next
Each of these compares one of the two standards above against another it shares controls with.
See all control mappings with interactive gap analysis
Explore the complete mapping between AICPA SOC 3 and SOC 2 on our compliance platform.
Written and maintained by Gerard Blokdyk, The Art of Service.