ISO 27001 vs NIS2: Mapping Compliance for Stronger Cybersecurity
As cybersecurity threats grow in scale and complexity, regulatory frameworks are evolving to keep pace. The Directive (EU) 2022/2555 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, commonly known as the NIS2 Directive, is the European Union’s latest effort to strengthen cyber resilience across critical sectors.
At Teamwork IMS, we help organisations bridge the gap between international standards like ISO 27001 and regulatory mandates like NIS2. Here’s how the two frameworks align and where additional measures are needed.
What is the NIS2 Directive?
The NIS2 Directive, which was officially adopted on 16 January 2023 (with member states being required to transpose it into national law by the 17 October 2024) replaces the original NIS Directive and significantly expands its scope. It applies to a broader range of sectors including energy, transport, health, digital infrastructure and manufacturing. It also introduces stricter requirements for:
- Risk management
- Incident reporting
- Governance and Corporate accountability
- Supply chain security
- Business continuity and crisis response
Failure to comply can result in fines of up to €10 million or 2% of global annual turnover, public disclosure of violations and even personal liability for senior management.
How ISO 27001 Supports NIS2 Compliance
ISO 27001 is a globally recognised standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It provides a strong foundation for NIS2 compliance through:
- Risk-based security controls
- Asset and access management
- Incident response planning
- Security awareness training
- Supplier risk management
Organisations already certified to ISO 27001 are well-positioned to meet many of NIS2’s core requirements.
Gaps between ISO 27001 and NIS 2 requirements
Despite the overlap, ISO 27001 does not fully cover all NIS2 obligations. Key gaps include:
- Governance and Corporate Accountability: NIS2 mandates board-level responsibility and personal liability for non-compliance – areas not explicitly addressed in ISO 27001
- Incident Reporting Timelines: NIS2 requires reporting within 24 hours, while ISO 27001 does not specify timeframes
- Sector-Specific Requirements: NIS2 includes obligations tailored to specific industries, which ISO 27001 does not
- Legal and Regulatory Oversight: NIS2 introduces national supervisory authorities and enforcement mechanisms that go beyond ISO 27001’s voluntary certification model
Mapping Tools and Guidance
To support organisations in aligning ISO 27001 with NIS2, the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) has published a suite of resources, including:
- NIS2 Awareness Toolkit: A comprehensive set of materials explaining the directive’s scope, obligations, and sector-specific impacts: https://www.enisa.europa.eu/topics/awareness-and-cyber-hygiene/raising-awareness-campaigns/network-and-information-systems-directive-2-nis2
- Mapping of NIS2 Obligations to European Cybersecurity Skills Framework (ECSF) Roles: A detailed guide that links NIS2 requirements to specific cybersecurity roles and responsibilities, helping organisations assign accountability and build internal capability: https://www.enisa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-06/Mapping%20NIS%202%20obligations%20with%20ECSF%20role%20profiles.pdf
- Risk Management and Incident Reporting Guidance: Practical advice on how to meet NIS2’s technical and organisational measures: https://www.enisa.europa.eu/publications/nis2-technical-implementation-guidance
These tools are designed to help organisations translate ISO 27001 controls into NIS2-compliant practices and identify where additional measures are needed.
How Teamwork IMS Can Help
At Teamwork IMS, we offer tailored services to help you:
- Map your ISO 27001 controls to NIS2 requirements
- Identify compliance gaps and remediation strategies
- Develop governance frameworks and board-level reporting
- Prepare for audits and regulatory inspections
Whether you’re already ISO 27001 certified or just starting your compliance journey, we can help you navigate the complexities of NIS2 with confidence.
Conclusion
ISO 27001 provides a strong foundation for NIS2 compliance but is not a complete solution. With the directive now enforceable across the EU, organisations must take a proactive approach to cybersecurity governance, risk management and regulatory alignment.
Need help mapping ISO 27001 to NIS2?
Contact us today to start your compliance journey.
