What is a CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification)?
Also known as: Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
CMMC is the Department of Defense's framework for verifying that contractors meet required cybersecurity standards before handling sensitive defense information. Depending on the data involved, contractors must demonstrate a specific CMMC level — sometimes verified by a third-party assessment.
Why CMMC exists
CMMC builds on DFARS cybersecurity clauses and NIST SP 800-171 to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) across the defense supply chain.
As CMMC requirements roll into DoD solicitations, achieving the required level becomes a precondition for award — so defense contractors must plan compliance well in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Do all DoD contractors need CMMC certification?
The required level depends on the type of information you handle. Firms handling only FCI face lower requirements than those handling CUI, which may require a third-party CMMC assessment. The level is specified in the solicitation.
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