The Cybersecurity maturity model certification (CMMC) is a security model that was created by the Department of Defense (DOD) to help ensure the protection and integrity of controlled unclassified information (CUI) across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). CMMC compliance is required for any private contractor working within the DIB or supplies services to an organization that does. This means that CMMC compliance is not a choice, but rather a requirement if your company wants to do business with the DIB. Becoming CMMC compliant can be difficult however, but an MSP can help you reach all of your compliance goals.
CMMC 2.0
As cyber threats evolve and mature the security frameworks and models we use also change to combat new threats. CMMC has recently undergone some changes that resulted in the creation of CMMC 2.0. The original CMMC model includes 5 levels of security with different levels of controls and processes that must be implemented. CMMC 2.0 has consolidated the previous 5 levels in 3 levels of security that are based on the controls found in NIST 800-171.
CMMC 2.0 Levels
Level 1 - Foundational
The first level of the new CMMC model covers the most foundational level of cyber hygiene and includes practices such as password policies, MFA, and security awareness training. There are 17 controls within level 1 and usually applies to smaller businesses who have minimal risk to their CUI.
Level 2 - Advanced
Level 2 of CMMC is for organization that are responsible for more CUI and are part of maintaining critical infrastructure. Level 2 organizations must implement all 110 controls of the NIST 800-171 framework.
Level 3 - Expert
The highest level of compliance for CMMC, the advanced level requires contractors to implement all 110 NIST 800-171 controls alongside other more advanced practices to account for the higher risk of the CUI present.
Why Use an MSP - know as ESP, External Service Provider, for CMMC Compliance?
Most organization have some form of internal IT staff that are responsible for software, hardware, and general IT problems that crop up now and again. Usually made up of 1-3 employees in smaller organizations, these teams often aren't enough to keep up with the increasing security and compliance demands for contractors. This is where a managed service provider (MSP), know as ESP, External Service Provider, with a focus in cybersecurity and compliance can help.
A qualified MSP/ESP can handle the IT requirements and security policies that an internal IT staff wouldn't be able to on their own. This takes the pressure off of your company and lets your employees focus on what's important -- making money.
MSP/ESP's can also save your organization money in the long run. Becoming and staying compliant is an expensive affair, one most small businesses will have trouble working into their yearly budget. An MSP/ESP has access to all of the tools necessary to secure your business and get you compliant without breaking the bank. CorpInfoTech specializes in providing enterprise level security tools to SMB's that have the desire to stay secure and compliant.
CMMC is based off of NIST 800-171, a security framework that requires contractors to implement over 100 different security controls. This takes time and expertise that a small internal IT staff couldn't handle alone. An effective MSP/ESP has the technical expertise and resources available to implement the most advanced security controls for contractors. One of the benefits of using CorpInfoTech managed service offering is that we can work in a fully or co managed capacity. We aren't seeking to replace your hard-working IT staff, but rather to come alongside them and give them the tools and help they need to protect your business.
Note that in order for an MSP/ESP to offer their services to a contractor, they must be CMMC compliant at the same level. CorpInfoTech is a registered provider organization (RPO) with the CyberAB, allowing us to offer out IT and cybersecurity services to DoD contractors.
The Importance of Compliance
As previously mentioned, CMMC is required for companies contracted by to DOD or working within the DIB. If your organization wants to keep its existing contracts or pursue new ones, then compliance must be a priority. Unfortunately, becoming CMMC compliant isn't fast or easy. Commitment to securing your organization takes time and effort, you can't afford to take half measures.
A qualified MSP/ESP can help you reach your compliance goals, contact CorpInfoTech today to make sure you're doing compliance the right way!
CorpInfoTech is committed to become CMMC level 2 (C3PAO) compliant to better serve your organization. Our audit is aligned early in the programs roll out, making us likely among the first MSPs to achieve certification.
Update 10/15: The final CMMC 2.0 rule is here The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification has been officially published into the federal register as a final rule on October 15th. What does this mean for your organization? With this final rule, contractors must take immediate action to protect CUI and align with regulatory requirements! If your business needs guidance on navigating the complexities of CMMC 2.0, CorpInfoTech is here to help.
CorpInfoTech (Corporate Information Technologies) provides small to mid-market organizations with expert I.T. services including compliance assessment, cybersecurity penetration tests, and comprehensive business continuity planning services. CorpInfoTech can help organizations, quantify, create, refine, and mitigate the risks presented by business threatening disasters in whatever form they may be disguised.
