How to Select the Right Partner for CMMC 2.0 Compliance

As the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 becomes a mandatory requirement for defense contractors, organizations must not only strengthen their cybersecurity posture but also navigate new regulations that mandate collaboration with Certified Third-Party Assessor Organizations (C3PAOs).

Furthermore, companies with intricate global IT networks, such as Active Directory (AD) environments, and foreign nationals abroad encounter unique compliance challenges. Choosing the right partner for CMMC compliance has never been more essential.

As the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 becomes a mandatory requirement for defense contractors, organizations must not only strengthen their cybersecurity posture but also navigate new regulations that mandate collaboration with Certified Third-Party Assessor Organizations (C3PAOs).

Furthermore, companies with intricate global IT networks, such as Active Directory (AD) environments, and foreign nationals abroad encounter unique compliance challenges. Choosing the right partner for CMMC compliance has never been more essential.

Understand the New C3PAO Requirement

A significant change in CMMC 2.0 is the requirement for companies seeking compliance at specific levels to engage with a Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO). A C3PAO’s role is to audit and verify that an organization meets the necessary CMMC standards, particularly for Level 2 and Level 3 certifications. This introduces an added layer of complexity to achieving compliance.

Key Challenges:

• Limited Availability: As CMMC regulations develop, certified C3PAOs are limited, making it difficult to secure their services in time.

• Mandatory Certification for Higher Levels: Companies handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) need certified assessors for Levels 2 and 3.

• Integration with Existing Partners: Non-C3PAO partners add complexity to vendormanagement.

What to Look For:

• C3PAO Certification: Ensure the partner is certified or collaborates with a certified C3PAO.

• Proven Track Record: Select a partner experienced in audits and compliance within similar frameworks.

Challenges of Global Teams & Active Directory in Achieving CMMC Compliance

Managing Active Directory (AD) in a CMMC 2.0 framework is challenging. Effective management of identity access, privileged roles, and multi-domain environments is crucial to comply with CMMC requirements.

Key Challenges with Active Directory (AD):

• Complex Permission Structures: CMMC demands stringent user access controls, which can be difficult to manage in AD.

• Monitoring and Logging: CMMC requires robust tracking of access to Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

• Configuration Management: AD misconfigurations, such as weak passwords or excessive privileges, create vulnerabilities.

What to Look For:

• AD Expertise: A partner with in-depth knowledge of AD security and compliance is essential.

• Comprehensive Logging Solutions: Ensure your partner provides logging solutions that meet CMMC standards.

Managing Foreign Nationals in Foreign Countries

Employing foreign nationals abroad introduces unique challenges for CMMC compliance, particularly concerning Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Key Challenges:

• Data Sovereignty: Compliance with both U.S. and local laws is essential when CUI is involved.

• Access Restrictions: Network segmentation and detailed access controls are necessary.

• International Laws: Adherence to international regulations is crucial.

What to Look For:

• Experience with Global Operations: A partner skilled in managing international teams and data access restrictions.

• Granular Access Control: Partners must implement precise access controls for compliance.

Evaluating Risk Assessments with C3PAO Involvement

A thorough risk assessment is critical for compliance. Collaborating with a C3PAO ensures a streamlined process and addresses compliance gaps proactively.

What to Look For:

• Collaborative Approach with C3PAOs: The partner should work closely with certified assessors.

• Tailored Risk Assessments: Conduct assessments that address unique organizational challenges.

Long-Term Support and Compliance Maintenance

CMMC 2.0 compliance requires ongoing efforts, including monitoring, audits, and scalability as your organization grows.

What to Look For:

• Ongoing Monitoring: Continuous monitoring ensures compliance is maintained.

• C3PAO Reassessments: Ensure partners provide support for periodic audits and updates.

• Scalability: Partners must adapt their services to support organizational growth.

Conclusion

Achieving CMMC 2.0 compliance requires addressing challenges like Active Directory management, foreign nationals, and certified assessments. The right partner will guide you through compliance while enhancing cybersecurity resilience.

Need help with CMMC 2.0 compliance for a global team? Contact Akkodis to learn how our global expertise and U.S.-based FOCI mitigation can assist your organization.