The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) puts important cybersecurity standards and best practices in place for contractors within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It was created by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) in 2020 to help strengthen compliance and improve security efforts.
Contractors working with the DoD handle sensitive information ranging from Federal Contract Information (FCI) to Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), requiring stringent protective measures. Compliance with CMMC levels directly impacts eligibility for DoD contracts, influencing the security posture organizations must adopt.
What is CMMC Level 1?
CMMC Level 1 represents the foundational certification within the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification framework, specifically designed to establish basic cybersecurity hygiene among DoD contractors. This initial level includes 17 fundamental cybersecurity practices that are outlined in FAR Clause 52.204-21, such as basic access control, identification and authentication, and physical protection.
These foundational controls primarily protect FCI, a type of information not intended for public release but essential for contract fulfillment, such as contract specifications, project timelines, or pricing details. Level 1 typically applies to smaller contractors or subcontractors with limited cybersecurity risks who handle less sensitive data.
Contractors operating at this level conduct self-assessments to demonstrate compliance rather than requiring third-party verification, simplifying the certification process and making it suitable for organizations beginning their cybersecurity compliance journey.
What is CMMC Level 2?
CMMC Level 2 serves as an intermediate certification, bridging foundational cybersecurity practices and the more advanced measures required for handling highly sensitive information. Contractors at Level 2 are responsible for implementing a set of 110 comprehensive security controls aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-171.
These controls specifically address the protection of CUI, encompassing more sensitive data than the information managed at Level 1. Some examples of the required security practices include detailed access controls to limit user privileges, incident response procedures to effectively manage security breaches, and media protection protocols to securely handle and store sensitive data.
Due to the increased sensitivity of CUI, Level 2 demands formal assessments every three years, conducted by accredited CMMC Third Party Assessor Organizations (C3PAOs). Such assessments help validate that contractors maintain an adequate cybersecurity posture consistent with federal standards for protecting sensitive government-related information.
Key Differences Between Level 1 and Level 2
Several notable distinctions separate CMMC Level 1 from Level 2, particularly in terms of complexity, data sensitivity, compliance standards, and assessment requirements.
At Level 1, contractors follow 17 fundamental cybersecurity practices designed to protect FCI, which involves basic, contract-specific data not intended for public distribution. In contrast, Level 2 significantly expands cybersecurity measures, requiring the implementation of 110 comprehensive security controls aimed explicitly at protecting the more sensitive CUI.
Another clear difference relates to alignment with federal standards. Level 1 corresponds closely to the FAR Clause 52.204-21, reflecting a basic security framework suitable for smaller or lower-risk contractors.
Level 2, however, fully aligns with the comprehensive cybersecurity standards defined in NIST Special Publication 800-171. This alignment means contractors must integrate detailed practices such as advanced access controls, incident response procedures, and strict media protection measures.
Assessment methods further differentiate these two levels. Contractors certified at Level 1 conduct simpler self-assessments, making compliance relatively straightforward and manageable internally. Conversely, Level 2 demands rigorous third-party assessments conducted triennially by accredited C3PAOs.
The shift from basic cybersecurity hygiene to a significantly more regulated posture underscores the increased responsibility and accountability expected of contractors handling sensitive government information at Level 2.
Why These Differences Matter
Understanding the distinctions between CMMC Level 1 and Level 2 carries practical implications for contractors aiming to secure or maintain their DoD contracts. Contractors must achieve the appropriate certification level to qualify for these contracts, making accurate identification and classification of sensitive information essential.
Incorrectly classifying FCI as CUI, or vice versa, can lead to inadequate protections, exposing contractors to serious financial losses, reputational damage, and significant legal penalties.
The DoD has already begun a phased implementation of CMMC 2.0, targeting full compliance across the DIB by late 2025. Contractors should begin preparations now, as failing to meet the specified requirements in time could mean losing contract eligibility altogether. Early adoption of the correct security practices is fundamental for organizations to maintain their competitive position and fulfill their contractual obligations to the DoD.
Take the Next Step to CMMC Compliance
Accurately understanding and achieving the correct CMMC certification level directly impacts a contractor’s ability to win and maintain Department of Defense contracts.
Advantage.Tech’s experienced cybersecurity team simplifies the complex compliance process, leveraging extensive knowledge of CMMC standards and relevant regulatory frameworks. Our welcoming team, strong regional experience, and SOC2 certification provide contractors with reliable support and peace of mind.
If your organization is ready to confidently achieve CMMC compliance, Advantage.Tech’s experts are available to help. Call toll-free at 1-(866)-497-8060 or schedule your consultation online today to get started.
