If you’re a defense contractor or part of the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain, you’ve likely heard of CMMC 2.0 but what does it truly mean for your business? The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is more than a regulation. It’s a necessary framework designed to protect sensitive government information and keep your organization eligible for defense contracts.
At MAD Security, we simplify cybersecurity and compliance. As a CMMC Level 2 Certified Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) and Registered Provider Organization (RPO), we help DoD contractors confidently navigate the path to compliance.
The initial version of CMMC had five maturity levels. In response to industry feedback, CMMC 2.0 introduced a more streamlined model with just three certification levels. These levels align closely with NIST SP 800-171 and existing federal acquisition regulations, making the path to compliance clearer and more practical.
For defense contractors and subcontractors aiming to win DoD contracts, understanding and preparing for CMMC 2.0 compliance is essential.
If your company handles, processes, or stores CUI or FCI, the answer is YES.
CMMC 2.0 applies to all contractors and subcontractors in the DoD supply chain, regardless of size or scope. Whether you are a prime contractor bidding on a large defense program or a subcontractor providing a niche service, you are expected to meet the appropriate CMMC level based on the sensitivity of the data you manage.
Without certification, you may be disqualified from future opportunities.
CMMC 2.0 organizes requirements into three levels. Each level reflects a different degree of cybersecurity maturity and implementation.
This level applies to companies that only handle Federal Contract Information (FCI). It focuses on basic cybersecurity hygiene and includes 17 security controls from FAR 52.204-21. These involve access control, data protection, and user authentication.
| Assessment requirement: Third-party audit every 3 years, with annual self-attestations in between. |
Level 2 is the most common requirement across the DIB. It applies to organizations managing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and requires full alignment with NIST SP 800-171, a total of 110 security practices.
Depending on contract sensitivity, some companies may self-assess. However, third-party assessments by a Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) are mandatory for most.
| Assessment requirement: Third-party audit every 3 years, with annual self-attestations in between. |
This level is reserved for companies handling the most sensitive DoD information. It incorporates NIST SP 800-172 controls, which go beyond the foundational and advanced requirements to include enhanced threat detection and cyber resilience practices.
Assessment requirement: Government-led audits every 3 years.
CMMC also signals that your organization takes security seriously, which can set you apart from competitors in the federal space.
At MAD Security, we guide you through the entire CMMC process from readiness assessments to audit support with a deep understanding of what’s at stake.
We’re more than just consultants. As a CMMC Level 2 Certified External Service Provider (ESP) with a perfect SPRS score of 110, we’ve helped numerous defense contractors complete their CMMC Level 2 assessments successfully and supported C3PAOs in meeting their accreditation requirements.
Our integrated approach includes:
| Gap Assessments and Pre-Audits: We identify exactly where you stand and what needs to be done to achieve compliance. | |
| Virtual Compliance Management (VCM): We manage your compliance program year-round, keeping your audit ready. | |
| Security Operations Center (SOC) Services: Our 24/7 monitoring, detection, and response services help fulfill technical and procedural requirements. | |
| Audit-Ready Documentation: We help you create and maintain essential artifacts like your System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M). | |
| Training and Support: From staff awareness to technical configuration, we provide the guidance your team needs to succeed. |
Whether you're preparing for Level 1, Level 2, or supporting a future Level 3 goal, our team is with you every step of the way.
CMMC 2.0 is being implemented in phases under the proposed rule tied to DFARS Clause 252.204-7021. Phase 1 begins in late 2025, at which point select Department of Defense contracts will begin requiring CMMC Level 1 self-assessments or Level 2 certifications as a condition for award.
Delaying your preparation could lead to serious setbacks, such as:
Long delays due to a limited number of Certified Third-Party Assessor Organizations (C3PAOs)
Ineligibility for new contract awards or option periods
Being passed over by prime contractors who already expect CMMC readiness from their partners
Getting started now positions your business ahead of the curve and ensures you are fully prepared when these requirements become standard across most DoD contracts during the rollout.