The Domain Name System (DNS) is the internet’s backbone, critical to the smooth operation of the online functions performed by millions of people and businesses every day. And as cyberthreats become more sophisticated, ensuring the security and reliability of DNS services has never been more important than it is now.

Enter SOC 2, a compliance framework developed by one of the organizations working to maintain digital trust and keep client data secure.

What is SOC 2?

SOC 2 stands for System and Organization Controls 2. It’s a rigorous auditing procedure created by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).

You might be wondering what CPAs have to do with cybersecurity. But it all makes sense if you think about the massive amounts of personal data that pass through accountants’ hands. The framework the AICPA has developed ensures service providers adhere to high standards when managing and securing client data, and it’s crucial for any business that prioritizes data security.

In fact, it’s becoming increasingly common for SaaS providers, cloud services, FinTech, HealthTech, and legal services organizations to earn a SOC 2 report to demonstrate their commitment to managing data security.

That’s not to say that an organization without a SOC 2 report has poor or insecure data management. But having the report gives clients the peace of mind that their sensitive data is being managed in a way that meets or exceeds one of the highest standards for data management. 

Why SOC 2 matters to DNS

Security shouldn’t be taken for granted in any industry, but it’s especially important when you think about how much data DNS providers transfer and host. A SOC 2 report is a powerful testament to the provider's dedication to security and operational integrity.

Here’s why it’s so important.

• Demonstrates trustworthiness: A SOC 2 report provides independent verification that a DNS provider has implemented robust controls to protect user data and maintain the availability of their services.
• Mitigates risk: By adhering to SOC 2's stringent requirements, DNS providers can proactively identify and address potential security vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of data breaches and service disruptions.
• Meets regulatory compliance: In some industries, a SOC 2 report is a prerequisite for doing business, especially when handling sensitive data.

The 5 criteria for SOC 2

Achieving a SOC 2 compliance shows that the provider passed a thorough evaluation of their systems and processes in these five areas:

1. Security: Implementing robust security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls, to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches.

2. Availability: Ensuring the DNS services provided are available and resilient, with disaster recovery and business continuity plans in place to minimize downtime.

3. Processing integrity: Maintaining the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of DNS data processing.

4. Confidentiality: Protecting confidential information, such as customer data and proprietary DNS records, from unauthorized disclosure.

5. Privacy: Safeguarding personal information collected and processed by the DNS provider.

It’s important to note that there are two different types of SOC 2 assessment: Type 1 and Type 2. The key difference lies in the “when” and “how long” of the evaluation.

Type 1 is a snapshot that shows a provider’s controls are designed appropriately as of a specific date. Type 2 looks at both the design and operational effectiveness of those controls, providing a more dynamic and continuous view of compliance and security performance.

How partnering with a trusted DNS provider helps your organization

If you’re a services provider or any other organization that values data security, working with a SOC 2-compliant DNS provider is a smart move. You'll know your data—and your customers’—is being managed and secured at the highest level, and your organization will have an easier time securing a successful SOC 2 assessment of its own.

Here’s how a DNS provider’s SOC 2 report can help your business—especially if the report is SOC 2 Type 2.

Trust and assurance

A SOC 2 Type 2 report offers detailed insights into the DNS provider’s security practices and operational excellence. In a world where DNS services underpin a company’s internet presence and security, this assurance is valuable beyond measure.

Risk management

By partnering with a SOC 2 Type 2-assessed provider like DigiCert, you're taking a proactive step in mitigating risks, particularly from DDoS attacks. A Type 2 report indicates a provider’s ability to ensure the reliability and availability of your online assets.

Compliance synergy

If your organization operates under stringent regulatory standards like HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS, engaging with a compliant DNS provider is a must. This partnership not only helps you align with regulations but also reinforces your commitment to data protection and privacy.

Competitive edge

When you’re trying to stand out in a competitive market, demonstrating a commitment to security can make or break your chances of winning new business. Using a SOC 2 Type 2-assessed DNS service shows your customers and partners that you value the integrity and reliability of your operations.

Simplified vendor due diligence

A successful SOC 2 assessment serves as a strong indicator of the provider’s commitment to high-level service and security standards, streamlining the vendor selection process.

Enhancing data security with DigiCert DNS Trust Manager

If you’ve guessed that we wouldn’t tout an audit that we hadn’t passed ourselves, you’re right—DigiCert is proud to offer authoritative DNS services through our SOC 2 Type 2-assessed solution, DigiCert DNS Trust Manager. Our globally recognized SOC 2 report undergoes annual audits to ensure we’re securely managing data to protect our clients and the people who trust them to keep their information safe.

If you’ve already partnered with DigiCert for your organization’s DNS and need a letter of our successful completion of the SOC 2 assessment, contact our vendor team at vendorforms@digicert.com. You can also request the full report, which is available under NDA.


The latest developments in digital trust

For a full list of the independent audits and certifications undergone by DigiCert’s suite of digital trust solutions, check out our infrastructure security datasheet. And if you want to learn more about topics like DNS, data security, and digital trust, subscribe to the DigiCert blog to ensure you never miss a story.