CMMC 2.0 Compliance Guide for DoD Contractors
In 2023, the CMMC 2.0 program was released and reshaped the compliance landscape. In this guide to CMMC compliance, we’ll review how PCG helps boost your cybersecurity and protect your IT.
The CMMC 2.0 program is a significant improvement over the original CMMC framework. It is more flexible, streamlined, aligned with NIST standards, and is designed to be more collaborative and adaptable to evolving cyber threats.
CMMC 2.0 is required for all Department of Defense (DoD) prime contractors and subcontractors that handle controlled unclassified information (CUI) by 2025. This means that organizations in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) need to start preparing for CMMC 2.0 now.
CMMC 2.0 is a cybersecurity framework that helps organizations implement cybersecurity practices that align with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171. CMMC 2.0 is divided into three levels of cybersecurity maturity:
- Level 1: Foundational
- Level 2: Advanced
- Level 3: Expert
CMMC certification levels required for particular contracts are specified by the DoD in the solicitation and request for information (RFI).
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CMMC 2.0 Update – Why it Matters
In 2012 the Department of Defense created a list of security requirements for contractors holding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). But this requirement compliance was self-attested, so contractors were responsible for assessing their own compliance and reporting findings to the DoD. This system was ineffective since many contractors simply ignored the requirements or failed to adequately assess compliance.
The DoD announced a program for third-party assessment of the security framework, which was delayed multiple times further eroding CMMC program credibility.
In 2023, the DoD officially started the lawmaking process to make CMMC 2.0 mandatory for all DoD contractors that handle CUI so that organizations in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) will need to comply with CMMC 2.0 requirements to do business with the DoD.
The CMMC 2.0 update is important because it:
- Improves cybersecurity for the DoD supply chain because it’s based on cybersecurity best practices designed to protect systems and data from cyberattacks
- Levels the playing field for DIB contractors. They’re all held to the same cybersecurity standards and requirements regardless of their size or budget.
- Demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity. As one of the largest targets of cyberattacks in the world, the DoD’s move to make CMMC 2.0 mandatory underscored its commitment to protecting its systems and data from cyberattacks.
To comply with CMMC 2.0, DIB contractors need to make significant changes to their IT systems and practices. This may include implementing new cybersecurity controls, training employees on cybersecurity best practices, and updating cybersecurity policies and procedures.
How PCG Helps You Achieve Compliance
PCG is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions for DoD contractors. PCG has years of combined experience in cybersecurity, compliance, and managed IT services. We can help you achieve CMMC 2.0 compliance with our comprehensive suite of cybersecurity services.
- Industry-leading tools: Our industry-leading tools have been carefully selected to support NIST 800-171 compliance
- Round-the-clock monitoring and support: We offer 24/7 monitoring and support to help you respond to cyberattacks quickly and effectively.
- Full suite of policies and procedures for NIST 800-171 compliance
Making the CMMC 2.0 Transition Easy for Government Contractors
PCG understands that the transition to CMMC 2.0 can be a challenge for government contractors. That’s why we offer a suite of services to make the process as easy and seamless as possible.
PCG sets itself apart from the competition by offering a white glove installation of all required software, taking care of everything from procurement to installation, so you can focus on your core business.
Starting a relationship with PCG is easy due to our collaborative onboarding process: We’ll work with you one-on-one to understand your unique needs and develop a customized CMMC 2.0 compliance plan.
We will provide a full CMMC/NIST SP 800-171 compliance gap assessment and Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) score.
Achieving CMMC compliance can be a challenging task that touches many different parts of your organization. PCG’s compliance plan will assist in the following areas:
- Defining policies and practices that meet all of the requirements for the targeted CMMC levels
- Assisting with mandatory documentation including a System Security Plan, a Plan of Actions and Milestones (POA&M), and individual policy documents
- Configuring your existing infrastructure, including PCs, servers, databases and tools such as Microsoft domains and 365 services to meet CMMC requirements
- Delivering required security monitoring and management services such as Managed Detection and Response (MDR), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Vulnerability Management, Software Whitelisting, Patching and others
- Designing and installing physical security solutions including video monitoring and building access control
Every government contractor is different, so we work with internal stakeholders to balance compliance requirements against your unique business needs. PCG is committed to helping our DoD clients achieve CMMC 2.0 compliance and protecting their sensitive information.
Get a high-quality DoD cybersecurity solution from PCG. Reach out today!
