SOC 2 Audit Pentest Requirements for MSPs

SOC 2 Audit Pentest Requirements title card with a shield icon in the MSP Pentesting brand style.

SOC 2 audits are one of the most important compliance requirements for service organizations. If your clients provide cloud services, manage customer data, or operate online platforms, they likely need a SOC 2 audit.

For MSPs and vCISOs, helping clients understand the role of penetration testing in SOC 2 compliance is critical. Auditors expect to see evidence of security testing, and a penetration test is one of the most compelling pieces of evidence you can provide.

This guide covers what auditors are looking for when they review your client's penetration testing, how to scope a SOC 2 pentest, and what makes a pentest audit-ready.

Why Penetration Testing Matters for SOC 2

SOC 2 auditors are looking for evidence that your client has implemented controls that actually work. A penetration test provides that evidence.

A SOC 2 audit requires your clients to demonstrate:

  • Security controls are designed and implemented
  • Security controls are tested regularly
  • Vulnerabilities are tracked and remediated
  • Security testing is documented

A penetration test checks all four of these boxes.

Author

Connor Cady

Founder

Connor founded MSP Pentesting after working in the pentest industry and seeing a massive gap in the market. MSPs were being forced to choose between overpriced corporate firms and shady, automated scanners that auditors hate. He built this company to solve that "sticker shock" and give the channel a partner that prioritizes their margins and client relationships.

Join our MSP Partner Program

Want reseller pricing, sample reports, and partner resources?
Book a call with our team to get access.