CMMC Consulting Services

What is CMMC Compliance? 

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a framework developed by the Department of Defense (DoD) to enhance cybersecurity across the defense industrial base (DIB). It establishes a tiered certification model to ensure that contractors handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) implement appropriate cybersecurity controls. 

CMMC integrates with existing standards, including NIST SP 800-171 and FAR 52.204-21, to provide a structured approach to safeguarding sensitive data. Compliance is crucial for organizations participating in DoD contracts, as failure to meet the required level of certification can result in lost contract opportunities. 

Levels of CMMC Compliance 

CMMC 2.0 Levels 

Level 1: Foundational (Basic Safeguards for FCI) 

Level 1 focuses on implementing 17 basic cybersecurity controls to protect FCI. It requires organizations to perform an annual self-assessment. 

Level 2: Advanced (Rigorous Protections for CUI) 

This level aligns with NIST SP 800-171 and requires organizations to implement 110 cybersecurity practices to protect CUI. Depending on contract requirements, companies may need to undergo a third-party assessment or conduct self-assessments. 

Level 3: Expert (Highest Level of Cybersecurity) 

Level 3 is designed for organizations handling highly sensitive CUI. It builds upon Level 2 by incorporating additional cybersecurity requirements based on NIST SP 800-172. Assessments for this level are government-led. 

Key Differences Between CMMC 1.0 and 2.0 

• CMMC 2.0 reduces the number of compliance levels from five to three. 

• Level 2 organizations may have the option for self-assessment instead of mandatory third-party audits. 

• CMMC 2.0 introduces greater alignment with NIST SP 800-171 requirements, streamlining the certification process. 

DoD Contractor Requirements 

Any organization that wants to bid on any DoD contracts must meet specific CMMC requirements. The necessary certification level is determined by the type of information handled. Contractors must: 

• Identify if they process, store, or transmit FCI or CUI. 

• Determine their required CMMC level based on contract requirements. 

• Obtain certification from an accredited third-party assessment organization (C3PAO) or through a government-led audit. 

CMMC Certification Process 

Gap Analysis: Identifying Compliance Gaps 

A thorough assessment of current cybersecurity measures to identify areas that need improvement. 

Implementation: Addressing Gaps with Controls and Documentation 

Organizations implement necessary controls, update policies, and establish documentation required for compliance. 

Pre-Assessment: Mock Audits to Verify Readiness 

Before the official audit, organizations conduct internal or consultant-led mock assessments to ensure compliance readiness. 

Certification Audit: Official Third-Party or Government-Led Assessment 

Organizations undergo a formal assessment conducted by a C3PAO or government agency to receive CMMC certification. 

Role of a CMMC Consultant 

What Does a CMMC Consultant Do? 

A CMMC consultant guides organizations through the certification process by: 

• Assisting in developing security policies and procedures. 

• Collaborating with internal teams to ensure compliance readiness. 

• Supporting self-assessments and official CMMC audits. 

Benefits of Working with a Tevora CMMC Consultant 

• Expertise in NIST and DFARS Frameworks: Consultants bring specialized knowledge to help organizations navigate compliance. 

• Tailored Strategies: Solutions are customized to fit the specific needs and size of the business. 

• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Consultants help organizations prevent costly mistakes in their compliance efforts. 

Specialized Consultant Services 

• Development of System Security Plans (SSP) to document security controls. 

• Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) Preparation to outline remediation efforts. 

• Cybersecurity Training and Awareness Programs to educate employees on best practices. 

Why Choose Tevora for CMMC Consulting? 

Credentials and Expertise 

Tevora’s consultants are experts in NIST, DFARS, and CMMC frameworks, providing in-depth guidance to help organizations achieve compliance efficiently. 

Comprehensive Services 

• Customized Compliance Programs: Tailored solutions to meet specific contract requirements. 

• Continuous Monitoring and Post-Certification Support: Ensuring long-term cybersecurity resilience. 

• Managed Services: Ongoing expert support to maintain compliance status. 

Additional Resources 

Tevora has helped businesses of all sizes successfully navigate CMMC certification, reducing compliance costs and improving cybersecurity posture. Read through some of our blogs on how we are guiding our clients to prepare for CMMC Go-Live and details on CMMC Final Rule being published.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What is the timeline for achieving CMMC certification? 

The timeline varies based on the organization’s existing cybersecurity posture, but most companies can expect a 6–12-month process, including gap analysis, implementation, and certification assessment. 

How much does CMMC compliance cost? 

Costs depend on the required certification level and the organization’s cybersecurity maturity. Organizations can reach out to our experienced sales team for exact quotes. 

What are the differences between NIST and CMMC? 

NIST SP 800-171 provides security requirements, while CMMC enforces those requirements through a certification process, ensuring compliance with DoD contracts. 

Who performs third-party CMMC assessments? 

Assessments are conducted by CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs) accredited by the Cyber AB, or for Level 3, government-led audits.