CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification)
The DoD's mandatory cybersecurity framework for defense contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
Definition
What is CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification)?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a mandatory cybersecurity framework established by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to ensure that defense industrial base (DIB) contractors adequately protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI). CMMC 2.0 defines three certification levels: Level 1 (Foundational — 17 practices, annual self-assessment), Level 2 (Advanced — 110 practices based on NIST SP 800-171, third-party C3PAO assessment required for most contracts), and Level 3 (Expert — 110+ practices plus additional DIBCAC assessment, reserved for highest-priority programs).
Why It Matters
Without CMMC certification at the required level, defense contractors cannot bid on DoD contracts. The final CMMC rule became effective December 2024, with contract clauses beginning to appear in solicitations. Defense contractors and subcontractors handling CUI — which covers most sensitive technical data, export-controlled information, and operational data — must achieve certification before contract award or risk program exclusion. The compliance window has opened; organizations that delay face compressed timelines and higher remediation costs.
How It Works
CMMC compliance requires implementing all 110 security requirements from NIST SP 800-171 across 14 domains: Access Control, Awareness and Training, Audit and Accountability, Configuration Management, Identification and Authentication, Incident Response, Maintenance, Media Protection, Personnel Security, Physical Protection, Risk Assessment, Security Assessment, System and Communications Protection, and System and Information Integrity. A System Security Plan (SSP) documents implementation, and a Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&M) tracks gaps.
Our Approach
Paxanimi's Approach to CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification)
Paxanimi's CMMC practice is Level 3 certified and has supported 40+ defense contractors through CMMC readiness. We provide gap assessments against NIST SP 800-171, remediation planning, SSP development, evidence collection, and readiness preparation for C3PAO assessments. Our cleared consultants can work on classified program requirements where applicable.
Quick Reference
- Category
- Compliance
- Related Services
- Cybersecurity Services
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