IT Services That Comply with CMMC for the Manufacturing Industry

Do you work in manufacturing? If so, you may have heard about CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance. In simple terms, companies that work with the Department of Defense (DoD) and handle sensitive information will need to comply with CMMC cybersecurity protocols. In this blog, we’ll review the following information about CMMC compliance:

• Understanding CMMC compliance
• Requirements of CMMC
• Why CMMC compliance is important when working with DoD
• How to stay in compliance with CMMC

At 46Solutions, we offer specialized IT services to fortify your cybersecurity systems. Keep reading to learn more about CMMC and how we can help you meet compliance requirements.

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If you need to improve your cybersecurity to meet CMMC compliance, 46Solutions has you covered. Along with extensive security knowledge, we offer high-quality technology systems and unique local expertise. Schedule a FREE consultation to learn more!

What is CMMC Compliance?

As mentioned above, CMMC compliance is designed for contractors (including manufacturing companies) that work with the DoD. More specifically, it outlines requirements for IT infrastructures. It can be divided into three levels:

• Level 1: This level requires meeting 15 requirements from SP 800-171. Generally, it’s used for companies that handle federal contact information (FCI).
• Level 2: This “advanced” level requires meeting Level 1 requirements, as well as 110 requirements that are determined by a third-party assessment. It’s usually used for companies that handle controlled unclassified information (CUI).
• Level 3: Most companies will need Level 1 or 2 CMMC compliance. However, a small portion may require Level 3 compliance (the most advanced level). In addition to fulfilling Level 1 and 2 requirements, these companies must exceed 110 SP 800-171 requirements (as determined by a government-led assessment).

CMMC Requirements

Now that you know what CMMC compliance is, you might be wondering: What exactly are the requirements? While they vary depending on the level, they often include the following types of measures:

• Access Control Systems: These systems prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your data by implementing methods such as multifactor authentication (MFA) and mobile access control.
• Risk Assessment: Risk assessments involve thoroughly evaluating your security system to identify any vulnerabilities.
• Data Encryption: Data encryption protects sensitive information by converting it into a code that can only be decrypted with an authorized key.
• Incident Response Plans: An incident response plan outlines the procedures that an organization should follow in the event of a cybersecurity breach.
• Penetration Testing: Penetration testing involves simulating a cyber attack to test your system’s strength.

You can find a more thorough CMMC compliance checklist on the DoD website.

Why CMMC Compliance is Important When Working with DoD

For manufacturing companies that work with the DoD, CMMC compliance is absolutely critical. Here are just a few reasons why it’s so important:

• Data Protection: Manufacturing companies regularly handle CUI and FCI. If this information leaks, it could pose national security risks. CMMC compliance ensures that companies use dependable safeguards to prevent sensitive data from falling into the wrong hands.
• Better Supply Chain Security: A breach within a single contractor can disrupt the DoD’s entire supply chain. Maintaining stringent security standards contributes to a more secure defense supply network.
• DoD Contract Eligibility: Compliance with CMMC is required if you want to bid on or retain DoD contracts. Not only could non-compliance result in disqualification, but it could also negatively impact revenue.
• Federal Compliance: CMMC aligns with existing frameworks such as NIST SP 800-171. This helps ensure that companies meet both DoD and federal cybersecurity standards.
• Improved Reputation: Establishing compliance with CMMC builds trust with the DoD and establishes credibility, which can lead to better business relationships and a stronger reputation.

It’s one thing to be familiar with CMMC compliance; it’s another thing to actually fulfill the requirements. If you’re unsure how to meet your cybersecurity needs, 46Solutions is here to help.

How to Stay in Compliance with CMMC

Staying in compliance with CMMC is easier said than done (especially when you have a whole business to handle). At 46Solutions, we take that burden off your hands. Our team includes IT and cybersecurity experts who are not only familiar with CMMC compliance, but also know how to achieve it.

We’ll start by conducting a CMMC compliance questionnaire to help determine your manufacturing company’s unique requirements. Then, we’ll evaluate your current system to pinpoint any gaps or vulnerabilities. Once we understand what you need, we’ll design a personalized system that fortifies your security and aligns with the DoD’s expectations.

Meet CMMC Compliance Requirements With 46Solutions

Worried about CMMC compliance? After analyzing your current security system, our team can help strengthen it and ensure you meet all compliance requirements. Schedule a FREE consultation today!