How to Secure Your Google Workspace for ISO 27001

Learn essential tips to secure your Google Workspace environment and meet ISO 27001 compliance standards effectively and confidently.

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Reviewed by Content Team

Daniel Goren, Head of Content

Updated June, 19

Guide

How to Secure Your Google Workspace for ISO 27001

 

How to Secure Your Google Workspace for ISO 27001 and Achieve the ISO 27001 Badge/Seal

 

To secure Google Workspace for ISO 27001 and earn the ISO 27001 compliance badge, you need a combination of technical security measures, documented processes, and internal controls. ISO 27001 is an international standard for managing information security, and it requires you to protect your data, manage risks, and show auditors that your organization follows strict security policies—especially with cloud tools like Google Workspace.

  • Understand What ISO 27001 Is: ISO 27001 sets requirements for protecting sensitive company information using an Information Security Management System (ISMS). This means you need to prove how you secure data, handle risks, review access, and respond to incidents.
  • Control Who Accesses Your Data: In Google Workspace, turn on 2-step verification for all users and use strong passwords. Restrict sensitive document access through Google Drive’s sharing settings and use groups/roles to limit permissions.
  • Set Up Device Management: Configure Google Workspace’s endpoint management to enforce device screen locks, remote wipe, and app whitelisting so only secure devices can access your data.
  • Protect Data With Encryption: Google Workspace encrypts your data at rest and in transit by default. For extra layers, use Google Vault to control email and chat retention, and deploy DLP (data loss prevention) rules to block sensitive data sharing.
  • Manage User Lifecycles: Disable accounts immediately for people who leave the company. Review users and shared files regularly. Audit admin activity using Google Workspace’s audit logs.
  • Monitor and Respond to Threats: Enable alerts in the security center for suspicious logins and sharing events. Set up regular security reviews and share policies with your staff.
  • Document Security Policies: Write and maintain clear, up-to-date policies about how you secure information, train staff, and handle incidents. Auditors will check these documents!
  • Risk Management: Regularly identify and assess risks to information in Google Workspace. Document how you mitigate them—this is a key ISO 27001 requirement.
  • Regular Internal Audits and Improvements: Audit your own security setup—look for weaknesses and improve. Keep records, as you’ll need to show auditors these activities.
  • Prepare for the Official ISO 27001 Audit: Hire an accredited ISO auditor or work with readiness consultants like OCD Tech who can guide you and perform a thorough readiness assessment before your formal audit. They specialize in helping organizations secure Google Workspace and prepare all needed documentation and controls for ISO 27001.
  • Get the Badge/Seal: After passing your audit, your organization gets an ISO 27001 certificate—the recognized "seal" or "badge" that proves you meet global information security standards.

What’s Most Important to Pass the ISO 27001 Google Workspace Audit?

  • Document everything: Written security policies and evidence of following them are essential.
  • Show technical controls working: Auditors will check that your Google Workspace is configured securely and that controls like 2FA and DLP are enforced.
  • Demonstrate regular risk assessment, reviews, and improvements: Prove that you don’t just "set and forget" your controls.
  • Involve expert advice where needed: Firms like OCD Tech can make a huge difference in passing your first audit smoothly.

How to get How to Secure Your Google Workspace for ISO 27001 badge/seal?

  • Secure your Google Workspace as above.
  • Document all policies, controls, and procedures.
  • Work with experienced consultants like OCD Tech for a readiness assessment.
  • Schedule an external ISO 27001 audit.
  • Pass the audit and receive your official ISO 27001 certification—for your organization, not just Google Workspace.

Achieve ISO 27001 on Google Workspace—Fast & Secure

Don’t let security gaps slow you down. Partner with OCD Tech’s seasoned cybersecurity experts to tailor a robust, framework-aligned protection plan for your Google Workspace. From uncovering hidden vulnerabilities to mapping controls against ISO 27001, we’ll streamline your path to certification—and fortify your reputation.

What is...

What is ISO 27001? ISO 27001 is an international security standard outlining best practices for information security management, ensuring data protection. What is Google Workspace? Google Workspace is a suite of cloud-based productivity tools by Google, including Gmail, Docs, Drive, Calendar, and collaboration apps.

What is Google Workspace

 

What is Google Workspace?

 

Google Workspace is a cloud-based productivity suite designed for businesses of all sizes, providing secure collaboration and communication tools. It combines Gmail, Drive, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more with centralized administration and advanced security features. Google Workspace security and compliance settings are crucial for achieving ISO 27001 controls within organizations. Key features include:

  • Integrated identity and access management for secure user authentication
  • Robust data protection measures, including encryption and Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
  • Granular administrative controls for account, device, and app management
  • Comprehensive audit logs and activity monitoring for compliance oversight

What is ISO 27001

 

What is ISO 27001?

 

ISO 27001 is a globally recognized information security management standard designed to help organizations safeguard sensitive data. It sets out requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). Attaining ISO 27001 compliance demonstrates a commitment to risk management, robust access controls, and regulatory data protection. Key benefits include:

  • Identifying and mitigating security risks proactively
  • Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks
  • Protecting customer data within cloud platforms like Google Workspace
  • Building trust with clients by proving organizational security maturity

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