If your company works with the Department of Defense (DoD) or contracts within the defense supply chain, you’ve likely heard about the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). But what does it really mean for your business? And why should executives and decision-makers care?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is CMMC?
CMMC is a cybersecurity certification required by the DoD to ensure contractors and subcontractors meet strict security standards. The goal? To protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and strengthen the overall security of the defense supply chain.
Before CMMC, companies were required to follow cybersecurity guidelines under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-171, but compliance was mostly self-reported – leading to inconsistencies. CMMC changes that by requiring third-party assessments to verify compliance.
The Three Levels of CMMC
CMMC is divided into three levels, each with increasing cybersecurity requirements:
- Level 1: A basic self-assessment with a small set of controls that most companies can meet with minimal effort.
- Level 2: A more comprehensive assessment based on full compliance with NIST 800-171, requiring a certified third-party assessment.
- Level 3: The most rigorous level, designed for organizations handling highly sensitive government data.
Most companies will focus on Level 2 compliance, which involves meeting 110 security controls covering areas like access management, data protection, and continuous security monitoring.
How to Prepare for CMMC Compliance
Navigating the complexities of CMMC can be overwhelming for many organizations. That’s where readiness partners come in. These experts help businesses identify security gaps, align technical measures, and prepare for the official assessment.
For example, our team has worked with clients, guiding them through a structured three-phase process:
- Consulting & Readiness Planning – Identifying gaps and building a roadmap to compliance.
- Implementation – Deploying necessary security controls and policies.
- Assessment & Certification – Completing the official CMMC evaluation.
The Cost of Compliance
CMMC is a significant investment. Costs vary depending on company size and the level of compliance required. For example, a recent project we supported had an estimated total cost of $200,000, with ongoing compliance maintenance expenses of about $15,000 per month. This fits the projects by Cyber-AB and DoD estimates.
While the upfront costs can seem high, compliance is often a business necessity, especially for companies that want to continue securing government contracts. Failing to meet these standards could mean losing valuable opportunities.
What’s Next for CMMC Compliance?
Currently, CMMC applies only to DoD contractors, but it may expand to other government agencies in the future. Even if your company isn’t required to comply yet, investing in cybersecurity best practices now can give you a competitive advantage and ensure you’re prepared for future regulations.
Final Thoughts on Preparing for CMMC
CMMC isn’t just another government requirement – it’s a crucial step toward protecting sensitive data and securing the defense supply chain. At its most aspirational, it’s seen as a way of securing our country’s security interests. Business leaders should take a proactive approach by working with trusted readiness partners, budgeting for compliance costs, and staying informed about evolving regulations.
If your organization needs guidance on preparing for CMMC, now is the time to start. The sooner you begin, the better positioned you’ll be to meet compliance deadlines and maintain your place in the defense industry.
Need help with CMMC compliance? Contact us to discuss your next steps and how we can support your journey toward certification.
