Comparison of CMMC with Other Cybersecurity Frameworks
Key Takeaways
- CMMC builds upon NIST SP 800-171 and 800-172, introducing a structured certification process for DoD contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
- Unlike self-attestation models, CMMC enforces third-party or government-led assessments, ensuring verifiable compliance.
- Compared to other cybersecurity frameworks like ISO 27001 and FedRAMP, CMMC is tailored specifically for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), focusing on supply chain security.
Introduction
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was introduced to strengthen cybersecurity standards within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB); for a full overview of what CMMC entails. While CMMC aligns closely with existing frameworks like NIST SP 800-171 and NIST SP 800-172, it differs by requiring formal certification rather than self-attestation. This article explores how CMMC compares to these standards and other cybersecurity frameworks.
Alignment with NIST SP 800-171
If you need deeper insights on these requirements and certification levels, visit What is CMMC.
1. Foundational Basis
CMMC is built upon NIST SP 800-171, which outlines 110 security controls for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in non-federal systems. Previously, the Department of Defense (DoD) mandated self-attestation for compliance, but CMMC introduces a structured certification process to ensure adherence.
2. Security Requirements
- NIST SP 800-171 specifies 110 security requirements across 14 categories, including Access Control, Incident Response, and System and Communications Protection.
- CMMC Level 2 fully incorporates these 110 requirements, ensuring alignment with NIST SP 800-171.
- Organizations seeking certification must demonstrate compliance via self-assessment or third-party assessment by a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO).
3. Assessment and Compliance
- NIST SP 800-171 compliance is typically self-assessed, with scores submitted to the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS).
- CMMC replaces self-attestation with mandatory third-party assessments for many organizations, making compliance more enforceable.
- Companies achieving at least 80% compliance under CMMC Level 2 may receive Conditional Certification, allowing them to address remaining gaps within 180 days using a Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M).
Alignment with NIST SP 800-172
1. Advanced Cybersecurity Protections
- NIST SP 800-172 enhances NIST SP 800-171 by adding 24 advanced security controls for organizations handling highly sensitive CUI.
- CMMC Level 3 incorporates these additional requirements, further emphasizing cyber resilience, threat mitigation, and enhanced monitoring.
2. Government Assessment
- Unlike CMMC Level 2, which permits third-party assessments, Level 3 requires evaluations by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC).
- This government-led assessment ensures that organizations involved in critical defense programs meet the highest security standards.
See CMMC Certification Levels for more details.
Comparison with Other Cybersecurity Frameworks
CMMC enhances cybersecurity within the Defense Industrial Base by enforcing compliance with NIST SP 800-171 and incorporating advanced protections from NIST SP 800-172. Unlike frameworks relying on self-attestation, CMMC mandates third-party or government assessments, ensuring a more rigorous and enforceable compliance process. As cybersecurity threats evolve, CMMC remains a vital component of the DoD’s efforts to secure the defense supply chain.
Conclusion
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