The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a cybersecurity standard developed by the United States Department of Defense to ensure that companies working with defense contracts properly protect sensitive information. CMMC focuses on safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and requires contractors to implement specific cybersecurity controls before they can be awarded certain DoD contracts.

CMMC is structured into three levels based on the type of information your organization handles and the level of cybersecurity required.

Level 1 – Foundational

• Designed for companies handling Federal Contract Information (FCI)

• Requires basic cybersecurity practices

• Typically involves self-assessment

Level 2 – Advanced

• Applies to companies handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

• Aligns with NIST SP 800-171

• May require a third-party assessment

Level 3 – Expert

• Designed for companies supporting high-priority or critical national security programs

• Includes additional security controls beyond Level 2

• Requires government-led assessments

A C3PAO is an authorized third-party organization that conducts official CMMC assessments.

Whether you need one depends on your required level:

• Level 1 → Self-assessment only

• Level 2 → May require C3PAO certification for certain contracts

• Level 3 → Requires government assessment

If your contracts involve handling CUI, you will likely need a C3PAO assessment at some point.

A CMMC gap assessment is an evaluation of your current cybersecurity posture compared to required CMMC standards.

It helps identify:

• Missing security controls

• Areas of non-compliance

• Risks in your current systems

A gap assessment is typically the first step in preparing for certification and helps create a roadmap for achieving compliance.

Preparing for a DoD contract with CMMC requirements involves several key steps:

1. Determine your required CMMC level based on the contract

2. Assess your current cybersecurity posture

3. Implement required controls, especially those aligned with NIST SP 800-171

4. Develop documentation, including policies and a System Security Plan (SSP)

5. Conduct a gap assessment to identify deficiencies

6. Work with a qualified advisor to prepare for certification

Many defense contractors partner with cybersecurity and compliance experts to streamline this process and reduce risk.

Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving.

We connect defense contractors with advisors who perform
CMMC readiness assessments and guide organizations through
the certification process.

Schedule a consultation to get started through our Contact Us page.