What is Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)?
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) framework that sets mandatory cybersecurity standards for defense contractors and their supply chains. Its goal is to ensure that sensitive government data—such as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI)—is properly protected from cyber threats.
CMMC defines different maturity levels, ranging from basic cyber hygiene to advanced proactive practices. To bid on or maintain certain DoD contracts, companies must be certified at the appropriate level. This requirement extends to prime contractors and subcontractors, making CMMC a critical factor across the entire defense ecosystem.
Key Points
- Purpose: To safeguard DoD information from cyber threats by holding contractors accountable for their cybersecurity posture.
- Levels: CMMC uses multiple maturity levels (from foundational to advanced) that measure both technical controls and organizational processes.
- Mandatory for Contracts: Without the required CMMC certification level, companies cannot bid for or maintain specific DoD contracts.
- Scope: Applies not only to prime contractors but also to subcontractors and supply chain partners, ensuring protection across the defense ecosystem.
Why CMMC Matters
CMMC was introduced in response to growing risks from data breaches, supply chain vulnerabilities, and nation-state cyberattacks. By requiring contractors to demonstrate their security readiness, the framework strengthens the overall resilience of the defense industrial base and ensures that sensitive military and government data remains protected.
CMMC vs. Other Frameworks
While frameworks like NIST Cybersecurity Framework or ISO/IEC 27001 provide best practices, CMMC is unique because:
- It is mandatory for defense contractors.
- It incorporates maturity processes (not just technical controls).
- Certification must be validated by a third-party assessment, not self-attestation.
Example in Practice
A defense subcontractor handling CAD files for aircraft parts must prove it can control access, monitor usage, and respond to incidents involving sensitive data. Depending on the type of information handled, the contractor might be required to meet a higher CMMC level (e.g., Level 2 or 3). Without certification, they would be excluded from bidding on future DoD projects.
How Fasoo Helps with CMMC Readiness
CMMC emphasizes persistent protection of sensitive data even beyond corporate networks. Fasoo solutions align with this principle:
- Fasoo Enterprise DRM (FED): Protects CAD files and technical documentation with persistent encryption and dynamic access control. Organizations can track every file action (open, edit, print, share), ensuring visibility across internal teams and external suppliers. If suspicious activity is detected, access can be revoked immediately, enabling rapid incident containment.
- Wrapsody eCo: Provides a secure collaboration platform that protects files shared across suppliers, contractors, and government partners. Every file is tracked with comprehensive audit logs, making it easier to detect abnormal behavior and trigger incident response workflows. Access rights can be adjusted or revoked in real time, which supports CMMC’s requirements for safeguarding CUI while enabling seamless collaboration.
Together, these solutions give organizations the visibility, control, and response capabilities that CMMC demands—helping defense contractors not only meet certification requirements but also build stronger resilience against insider threats and supply chain risks.