CMMC Level 1 Demystified: A Practical Guide to Compliance
CMMC Level 1 Simplified
If you’re in the defense contracting world, understanding the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is non-negotiable, it’s your ticket to securing government contracts. At its core, CMMC Level 1 lays the foundation for companies handling Federal Contract Information (FCI). This guide and webinar walk you through everything you need to know including what information you’re protecting, what’s required, and how to meet compliance standards.
What Is CMMC?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is the Department of Defense’s (DoD) initiative to beef up cybersecurity across the Defense Industrial Base. Think of it as a playbook for protecting sensitive government information. While the final framework is still in development, getting a head start on compliance ensures you stay eligible for DoD contracts when it rolls out fully.
What’s Federal Contract Information (FCI)?
FCI refers to non-public information provided by or developed for the government under a contract. If your company handles FCI—even if it’s just a small part of your work—you’ll need to achieve CMMC Level 1. This level focuses on essential cybersecurity hygiene to safeguard this information.
Who Needs CMMC Level 1?
If your business touches FCI, you need CMMC Level 1 certification. It doesn’t matter if you’re a small shop or a big player in the industry—compliance is mandatory. Even if your work doesn’t involve Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), Level 1 applies if FCI is in your scope.
CMMC Level 1 Explained Webinar
Description: CMMC Level 1 will be required by the majority of companies in the defense industrial base (DIB). For companies needing higher CMMC Levels (2 or 3), Level 1 is the place to start.
Why CMMC Level 1 Matters
CMMC Level 1 outlines 17 critical controls designed to protect FCI. These controls form the backbone of your cybersecurity practices, helping you secure sensitive data and setting you up for success with future, more advanced certifications.
The 17 CMMC Level 1 Controls—What Do They Cover?
Here’s a snapshot of the 17 controls that make up CMMC Level 1:
-
- Access Control: Limit access to FCI to authorized personnel.
- Awareness and Training: Educate your team about their role in protecting sensitive data.
- Audit and Accountability: Implement tracking systems to monitor access and activity.
- Configuration Management: Maintain secure setups for all systems handling FCI.
- Identification and Authentication: Use unique identifiers for anyone accessing sensitive data.
- Incident Response: Have a plan for tackling security breaches.
- Maintenance: Keep systems updated and well-maintained.
- Media Protection: Secure physical and digital media containing FCI.
- Physical Protection: Lock down spaces where FCI is stored or processed.
- System and Communications Protection: Safeguard data during storage and transmission.
- System and Information Integrity: Monitor systems for potential threats or weaknesses.
- Risk Assessment: Regularly assess and address risks.
- Security Planning: Develop and maintain a clear security plan.
- Personnel Security: Vet individuals handling FCI.
- Contingency Planning: Prepare for unexpected disruptions.
- Program Management: Oversee compliance efforts.
- Subcontractor Management: Ensure subcontractors meet CMMC standards too.
How to Prepare for CMMC Level 1
Compliance doesn’t happen overnight, but breaking it down into manageable steps helps:
-
- Assess Current Cybersecurity Measures: Identify where your practices fall short.
- Implement the Controls: Address gaps by adopting the 17 controls.
- Train Your Team: Educate employees on their role in protecting FCI.
- Document Everything: Keep clear records of policies and procedures.
- Conduct Self-Assessments: Regularly check your compliance progress.
- Engage Experts: Work with CMMC consultants if needed.
What Does CMMC Level 1 Compliance Cost?
CMMC Level 1 compliance costs can vary depending on:
-
- The state of your existing cybersecurity setup.
- Employee training expenses.
- Consultant fees (if you bring in outside help).
- Time and resources spent on documentation and assessments.
While Level 1 is simpler than higher levels, it’s worth budgeting for these expenses upfront.
Why It Pays to Stay Ahead
CMMC Level 1 isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a way to future-proof your business. By meeting these standards, you protect sensitive government data and open doors to lucrative defense contracts. As the DoD refines the CMMC framework, staying proactive and informed will keep you in the game.
Ready to Start?
Whether you’re new to cybersecurity compliance or looking to refine your processes, resources like cybersecurity webinars, training programs, and expert consultations can guide you every step of the way. Need more help? Reach out to industry experts or explore official CMMC materials to ensure you’re on the right track.
By prioritizing compliance today, you’re not just meeting requirements—you’re building a stronger, more secure future for your business.
About CORE Vault for NIST CMMC
Everything you need for NIST/CMMC in one cloud-based solution. The CORE Vault CUI Enclave and Consulting Services.
If you contract with the Department of Defense, you require advanced cybersecurity protections. To comply with DFARS, you need to meet the requirements of NIST SP 800-171. Soon, DoD contractors will also need to meet the requirements of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC 2.0). However most contractors don’t have the resources to overhaul their entire network for compliance. With CORE Vault, you don’t have to.
With CORE Vault, you can separate government data from your network and access it through a secure, cloud-based environment managed by our cyber experts.
CORE Vault also includes the support needed to reach full compliance with the non-technical cybersecurity requirements, such as your system security plan and required policies.
We’ve seen contractors achieve their maximum DoD-required SPRS score in 30 days.
Core Business Solutions, established in 2000, is a Registered Practitioner Organization through the Cyber AB and has been providing consulting and technical solutions for NIST/CMMC for over 5 years. Rick Krick is the Director of Security Solutions for Core Business Solutions and directs our Cybersecurity Services solutions including CMMC. Rick has over 25 years of experience in Management System implementations, software development, IT services, and certifications.
