Starting in Q1 2025, software providers in the DoD supply chain must align their security with CMMC 2.0 standards. While many enterprise customers have been spending that past year getting ready, the reality is that most businesses don’t share this level of preparedness–specifically, small businesses. Meeting the challenges of a complex framework like CMMC can… Read More
Controlled Unclassified Information: A Basic Introduction to CUI
We’ve written extensively about CMMC and NIST Special Publication 800-171, which cover the handling and protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). But what is CUI? How is it created, and why is it so important to protect? Here, we’re digging into CUI and why it’s integral to significant cybersecurity frameworks in the federal marketplace.
What Is NIST 800-172 and Advanced Security Structures
The ongoing rise of state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) has increased scrutiny of federal and state IT systems security systems. The latest version of CMMC includes a high-maturity level specifically designed to address these threats, which relies primarily on advanced security controls listed in NIST Special Publication 800-172.
Leveraging Managed Security Service Providers for NIST 800-171 and CMMC Compliance in the Defense Supply Chain
The complex relationships between government agencies, third-party vendors, and managed service providers form a challenging web of connections that comprise the DoD digital supply chain. Both NIST 800-171 and CMMC address these at various points, expecting providers to adhere to complex security requirements. These requirements can become so complex that they may turn to Managed… Read More
CMMC, NIST 800-172, and Advanced Persistent Threats
As organizations move up the CMMC maturity model, they do so for one reason: to prepare themselves better to protect against Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). These threats are a significant problem in the defense supply chain, and as such, CMMC leans heavily on NIST 800-171 and 800-172 to address them. This article introduces how these… Read More
CMMC 2.0 Updates: More Contractors Expected to Require Full CMMC Certification
With the Department of Defense unveiling CMMC version 2.0 last November, many contractors breathed a sigh of relief. The relaxed assessment requirements and streamlined structure signaled a willingness from the DoD to work with assessors and contractors to find a way to promote security over Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) without making the process harder than… Read More
What is the Difference Between DFARS and CMMC?
Security and compliance are paramount in the defense industry–even for unclassified information, like Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The operations of these particular industries call for the utmost discretion, and all stakeholders must be on the same page. As modern digital infrastructure makes its way into the defense supply chain, it’s equally crucial for contractors and… Read More
NIST SP 800-171 vs. 800-172: What’s the Difference?
The unveiling of CMMC 2.0 last November raised a lot of questions, but also brought a lot of relief. The streamlining of security around Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) will help defense agencies and contractors better secure their systems without burdening them with operational overhead. This is crucial for organizations who want to support these agencies… Read More