CMMC Certification Requirements: Steps Involved

With the roll out of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 framework, there is a scramble for meeting the new cybersecurity standards by organizations connected with the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). If not met, organizations will be ineligible to win and maintain DoD contracts. In simple words, CMMC Level 2 compliance is a necessity requirement for all contractors tasked with storing, processing, or transmitting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

CMMC Level 2 is a big upgrade for cybersecurity maturity. Organizations should implement cutting-edge protections under Level 2. This means undergoing third-party assessments to confirm their approach to managing cybersecurity risks. There is a lot of work to do when it comes to meeting the CMCC certification requirements

CMMC Level 2 Certification

CMMC Level 2 is made tougher, especially when dealing with CUI. This level features intermediate cyber hygiene, with additional controls formed on NIST SP 800-171. Protection of CUI is paramount through the implementation of access control, failure safety, and malware analysis safeguards, etc.

To endorse compliance, you must go through assessments once in 3 years or as required.

Achieving Compliance

The key to being compliant with CMMC certification requirements is through breaking the process into precise, actionable steps. Refer to this checklist to easily navigate the different stages.

Perform a Gap Analysis

A gap analysis is done to identify your current standing of cybersecurity practices in relation to CMCC requirements. It also involves the evaluation of the controls specified in NIST SP 800-171 and your deficiencies. By performing this step, you get a direction on the weak areas that should be worked on.

Create A Plan for Rectification

When you know the deficiencies, the second step is to make a plan for their rectification. In this plan, you define the actions to improve, plot a timeline, and delegate responsibilities.

Putting Plan Into Action

After a gap analysis and creating a plan, the next step is implementing the required security controls. This means calibrating systems, upgrading access control measures and making your infrastructure up to date with the CMMC Level 2 standards. It involves working on both technical measures and administrative policies

Doing Timely Security Checks

Timely security checks are the crux of maintaining superior cybersecurity preparedness. By doing security checks, you can understand how well your implemented security controls are working. You can also invite a third party to get their unbiased opinion on the way to a formal C3PAO assessment.

Build a System Security Plan

It is a detail of your security practices, tools, and procedures. This document is reviewed by Assessors to check whether you are complying with the requirements.

Employee Training and Education

A trained and aware team keeps your organization’s security posture robust. The team, including IT staff and general employees, should know what their responsibilities are with regard to protecting CUI. Training should be focused on cybersecurity specifications, threat awareness, and the specifics of your internal policies.