CMMC 2.0 Requirements
Cybersecurity is an essential priority for any organization actively working with the Department of Defense (DoD). The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 builds on the original framework, streamlining compliance and making sure that contractors meet stringent security standards to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
CMMC 2.0 introduces a simplified three-level model and aligns closely with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) cybersecurity standards. With its revised structure, the program becomes more effective and less complex for organizations actively preparing for certification.
CMMC 2.0 Requirements
CMMC 2.0 requirements focus on maintaining consistent implementation of cybersecurity standards across contractors and subcontractors in the defense supply chain. The model outlines 14 domains that form the foundation of its framework, including:
Access Control (AC)
Defines mechanisms to restrict access to information systems based on user roles allowing only authorized individuals to access sensitive data.
Awareness & Training (AT)
Mandates regular cybersecurity training to keep personnel aware of potential threats and understand how to mitigate them effectively.
Audit & Accountability (AU)
Requires systems to track and record user activities, enabling detection and investigation of unauthorized access or misuse of information.
Configuration Management (CM)
Emphasizes establishing and maintaining secure configurations for information systems to prevent unauthorized changes.
Identification & Authentication (IA)
Directed at verifying the identity of users and devices to prevent unauthorized access through robust authentication methods.
Incident Response (IR)
Requires organizations to develop and maintain plans for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cybersecurity incidents.
Maintenance (MA)
Addresses secure maintenance practices to make sure systems are serviced without introducing vulnerabilities.
Media Protection (MP)
Outlines the handling, transport, and disposal of digital and physical media containing sensitive information.
Personnel Security (PS)
Focuses on screening individuals with access to sensitive data to reduce insider threats.
Physical Protection (PE)
Makes sure physical barriers and security measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access to facilities and equipment.
Risk Assessment (RA)
Mandates regular evaluations of cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities to best prioritize possible mitigation efforts.
Security Assessment (CA)
Requires regular assessments of security controls to verify their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
System and Communications Protection (SC)
Focuses on securing communications and protecting any data in transit against potential interception or tampering.
System and Information Integrity (SI)
Requires mechanisms to detect, report, and correct vulnerabilities or errors in information systems promptly.
CMMC 2.0 Levels
The three levels of CMMC 2.0 are designed to reflect varying degrees of cybersecurity maturity and compliance requirements.
Level 1: Foundational
Covers basic safeguarding practices required to protect FCI, focusing on the 17 primary practices aligned with NIST SP 800-171.
Level 2: Advanced
Expands on Level 1 by including 110 practices from NIST SP 800-171, requiring triennial third-party assessments for any organizations handling CUI.
Level 3: Expert
Incorporates additional controls from NIST SP 800-172 to defend against advanced persistent threats, requiring heightened security measures and annual government-led assessments.
How to Prepare for CMMC 2.0 Certification
Any organizations that are preparing for CMMC 2.0 certification should follow these steps:
Determine Your CMMC Level
Identify the level of certification required based on the type of information your organization handles and your current role in the DoD supply chain.
Review the Assessment Guide
Carefully examine the official CMMC 2.0 assessment guide to understand the specific practices and controls applicable to your certification level.
Secure Your Data
Implement all appropriate safeguards to protect sensitive information, including encryption, access controls, reporting, and incident response protocols.
Select a C3PAO for Readiness Assessment
Engage a certified third-party assessment organization (C3PAO) to evaluate your readiness for certification and provide guidance on meeting requirements.
Sign a CMMC Certification Contract
Complete the necessary contracts to formalize your participation in the certification process and schedule your official assessment.
Strengthen Your Organization’s Current Cybersecurity Stance
Achieving CMMC 2.0 compliance is a significant step toward securing your organization and maintaining eligibility for DoD contracts. Contact the team at Advantage Technology today to schedule a consultation, ask questions, or learn more about how we can support your path toward certification.
