C3PAO Assessment for DoD Contractors
If you’re a defense contractor pursuing certification in CMMC, you’re likely aware that selecting a Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) is a critical step in securing your business’s future. With the Department of Defense (DoD) rolling out mandatory cybersecurity standards in Q1 2025, the demand for C3PAO services is skyrocketing. Acting now to engage a qualified C3PAO such as KLC Consulting can significantly enhance your competitive edge by securing CMMC certification promptly. This will enable you to win more government contracts and demonstrate your commitment to cybersecurity.
Why Reserve Your Spot Today?
- Limited Access: With under 70 authorized C3PAOs and approximately 77,000 DIB companies needing CMMC Level 2 certification, the demand for assessments is spiking.
- Avoid Delays: By reserving your spot now with KLC Consulting, you can avoid potential scheduling conflicts and ensure a timely assessment process.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your assessment is scheduled will give you peace of mind, allow you to focus on other priorities and stay ahead of the competition.
C3PAO CMMC Assessment 4 Step Process
Cost of a C3PAO CMMC Assessment
While we have set pricing structures, the cost of your CMMC assessment can vary based on several factors including:
Number of SSPs, Systems, and Physical Sites (US or foreign locations): and The degree of vertical integration among IT and shared resources will impact the price.
Type of Business: The complexity of your business operations, such as manufacturing, IT services, or defense contracting, can influence the scope and cost of the assessment.
IT System Infrastructure: The nature of your IT systems, whether they are on-premises, cloud-based, or hybrid, can impact the assessment complexity.
Number of Endpoints: The number of devices connected to your network, including computers, laptops, servers, and mobile devices, can affect the assessment scope.
Why Choose KLC Consulting For Your Assessment
KLC Consulting is a DoD-authorized CMMC C3PAO with a team of Certified CMMC Assessors and over two decades of cybersecurity consulting experience. We’re your best choice for achieving CMMC Level 2 compliance because we’re 100% dedicated to solving the unique challenges faced by DIB companies.
Our assessors advocate for you while maintaining impartiality, ensuring a thorough yet supportive assessment process. With KLC Consulting, you’re not just getting an assessment; you’re gaining a committed ally in your CMMC journey.
Benefits:
- Remote Assessments: We conduct assessments remotely whenever possible, minimizing disruption to your operations.
- Onsite Expertise: If you handle physical CUI, our lead assessor will visit your location for a hands-on evaluation.
- Commitment to Client Success: We are committed to your success. Our goal is not just to complete your CMMC Level 2 Assessment, but also to ensure you have a robust cybersecurity posture that meets the ever-evolving needs of the defense industry.
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Key Insights and Preparing for Your CMMC Level 2 Assessment
CMMC compliance is urgent. Understanding the assessment process is crucial. Kyle Lai, President and CISO of KLC Consulting, breaks down Level 2 assessments, requirements, challenges, and preparation.
Key takeaways include understanding the timeline for CMMC 2.0 implementation and its impact on your business, addressing the challenges of finding qualified assessors due to a shortage of C3PAOs and Certified Assessors, and utilizing a template to identify your in-scope systems and data. KLC Consulting offers a free Assessor’s Playbook to guide you through the assessment process and ensure your success.
Our CMMC Level 2 Certification Assessments Video features: Misconceptions about CMMC, Four Phases of a CMMC Assessment, and challenges plus recommendations. Read transcript of our CMMC Level 2 Certification Assessments video.
Introduction to KLC Consulting
Kelly McDermott: Hello! My name is Kelly McDermot, and I work with KLC Consulting. We were founded in 2002, and we bring over two decades of experience and the expertise of a C3PAO (CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization) to help organizations navigate the CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) landscape. Our mission is to demystify CMMC, assist you in understanding its requirements, and work collaboratively to achieve certification quickly and efficiently.
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Kyle Lai, our president and chief security officer. With over 25 years in cybersecurity, Kyle is a leading expert in CMMC compliance. He’s a certified CMMC assessor and a key player in the C3PAO community. Kyle is uniquely qualified to guide you through the CMMC certification process.
The CMMC 2.0 Final Rule Timeline
Kelly: Hi, Kyle. Thanks for joining us today. When can we expect the final CMMC rule to drop, and what does that mean for DoD (Department of Defense) contractors?
Kyle: The DoD has submitted the CMMC 2.0 final rule to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) for review. We expect the CMMC rule to be finalized around Q4 2024 or Q1 2025.
Once the rule is finalized, DoD contractors should expect to see CMMC requirements in DoD contracts. Both prime and subcontractors are responsible for meeting the CMMC assessment and certification criteria by the contract award date.
DoD’s Four-Phase Rollout Plan for CMMC
Kyle: The DoD has a four-phase rollout plan:
- Phase 1 (Months 1-6): Level 1 and 2 self-assessment requirements in new contracts.
- Phase 2 (Months 7-18): Level 2 certification requirements for new contracts.
- Phase 3 (Months 19-30): Level 2 certification requirements for existing contracts and some Level 3 certifications.
- Phase 4 (After Month 30): No exceptions; all DoD contracts will have CMMC requirements.
The Shortage of CMMC Assessors
Kelly: Everyone knows CMMC compliance is coming, but is there a shortage of assessors? How will that impact the timeline for getting certified?
Kyle: There is currently a shortage of CMMC-certified assessors and C3PAOs. With only 54 authorized C3PAOs and approximately 77,000 DIB (Defense Industrial Base) companies requiring CMMC Level 2 certification, there will be a huge demand. It’s crucial to act now and get in line for a CMMC Level 2 certification assessment.
Why Start the CMMC Certification Process Now?
Kelly: Why should companies start the process now? What do they need to know?
Kyle: If you’re a prime contractor, you’ll want to look for subcontractors that are certified or are in line to be certified when the CMMC rule is finalized. It’s mandatory for subcontractors to have CMMC Level 2 certification by the contract award date. If you’re a subcontractor handling CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information), you need to find an authorized C3PAO and sign up for a CMMC Level 2 certification.
KLC’s “Reserve Your Spot” Offer
Kelly: KLC offers a “Reserve Your Spot” program. Can you explain what that entails?
Kyle: We guarantee two things:
- We’ll reserve a spot for your CMMC Level 2 certification assessment.
- We offer the “Best Price Guarantee,” provided we have the same terms and conditions.
You’ll need to make a $5,000 deposit to reserve your spot.
Understanding CMMC Level 2
Kelly: Can you break down what CMMC Level 2 means? What does it protect, and why is it so important?
Kyle: CMMC Level 2 is the minimum requirement for companies to handle CUI. CUI is sensitive information that is required to be protected by laws, regulations, and government-wide policies. DoD will not award contracts that handle CUI to companies without CMMC Level 2 certification.
NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC Level 2
Kelly: How does NIST SP 800-171 fit into the framework of CMMC Level 2?
Kyle: CMMC Level 2 certification is based on NIST SP 800-171 revision 2. It has 110 controls, which consist of 320 assessment objectives. The DoD NIST SP 800-171 assessment methodology, also called the SPRS (Supplier Performance Risk System) scoring methodology, is used to generate the summary level score. The perfect score is 110.
Benefits of CMMC Level 2 Certification
Kelly: What are the benefits of getting CMMC Level 2 certified? Is it worth the effort?
Kyle: The benefits include:
- Increased opportunities to work with DoD or prime contractors
- Demonstration of your company’s cybersecurity capabilities and compliance
- Ability to market yourself to handle contracts that involve CUI
- Boosted competitive edge
- Recognized commitment to protecting CUI
Common Misconceptions about CMMC
Kelly: What are the most common misconceptions about CMMC?
Kyle: One common myth is that if you have any gaps, you’ll fail the certification assessment. This is false. If you have a few POA&M (Plan of Action and Milestones) items or gaps that are allowed under CMMC, you can still get a conditional certification, provided you have a score of 88 points or 80% or above. You’ll have 180 days to remediate these gaps.
Four Phases of a CMMC Level 2 Assessment
Kelly: What is the typical journey like for a CMMC Level 2 assessment? How do you ensure it won’t be a painful process?
Kyle: There are typically four phases:
- Pre-assessment: We review your documentation, such as your CUI scope diagram, asset inventory, and System Security Plan (SSP), to ensure you’re ready for the assessment.
- Assessment: We conduct the actual assessment, typically over five days. We provide daily briefings to keep you informed of our progress.
- Results and Reporting: We document the results and any POA&M items. We submit the report to DIBCAC, which updates the SPRS system.
- POA&M Close-Out Assessment (Optional): If you have POA&M items, we can conduct a close-out assessment within 180 days to convert your conditional certification to a final certification.
Assessor’s Playbook
Kyle: Would you like to see the “Assessor’s Playbook” we follow during a CMMC Level 2 certification assessment? It’s #5 on this list of free tools we provide here.
How KLC Consulting Checks for NIST SP 800-171 Compliance
Kelly: How do you go about checking if someone is meeting all those NIST SP 800-171 requirements?
Kyle: Our CMMC-certified assessors conduct the assessment based on the CMMC Assessment Guide against 110 requirements and 320 assessment objectives. We’ll expect to see supporting documents, policies and procedures, screenshots, configuration settings, and more. We’ll interview the people responsible for the controls and requirements, review your processes and technologies, and assess your physical security.
What to Expect During a CMMC Assessment
Kelly: What happens if a company finds security gaps during the assessment? Can you help them fix those issues?
Kyle: As a C3PAO, we maintain independence and cannot provide consulting services. We’ll identify the issues but cannot tell you how to remediate them.
Kelly: I’ve heard horror stories about some audits that have gone wrong. How do you ensure the process is collaborative and not just about finding problems?
Kyle: Our assessors have many years of experience conducting various assessments. We focus on collaboration and understanding the intent of your controls. We provide a playbook for CMMC assessors to help you prepare and understand the expectations. Clear communication is key to a smooth and successful assessment.
A CMMC Success Story
Kelly: Can you share a success story where you helped a company get CMMC certified?
Kyle: We helped a small manufacturing company prepare for and pass their CMMC Level 2 assessment. We worked closely with them and their managed service provider to ensure they were ready. There were a few minor gaps, but they were able to remediate them and achieve a final certification.
Biggest Challenges and Recommendations
Kelly: What are the biggest challenges to overcome in the CMMC certification process? What would you suggest that a contractor look for when seeking help?
Kyle: The biggest challenge is often underestimating the level of effort required. It’s crucial to get senior management buy-in, secure the necessary funding and staffing, and choose a C3PAO with experienced assessors. A mock assessment is also highly recommended to ensure a smooth and successful final assessment.
Conclusion
Kelly: Thank you, Kyle, for sharing your expertise. CMMC Level 2 is coming soon, and securing your assessment spot is crucial. KLC is here to help you navigate the CMMC landscape and achieve certification. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation or a quote.Kyle: Thank you, Kelly
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Frequently Asked Questions About a C3PAO Assessment
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we get regarding a C3PAO CMMC Assessment.
If you have any other questions, we’d love to hear them [Really!] Please contact us.
How do you know when you are ready for an assessment? +
A: Determining your readiness for a CMMC assessment involves a comprehensive evaluation of your organization’s cybersecurity posture. Here are some key indicators:
- Understanding of CMMC Requirements: You should have a thorough understanding of the specific CMMC requirements applicable to your organization’s size, industry, and data handling practices.
- Implementation of Security Controls: You should have implemented the necessary security controls to meet the CMMC requirements, including access control, incident response, and data protection measures.
- Documentation and Evidence: You should have the necessary documentation and evidence to demonstrate compliance with CMMC standards. This includes policies, procedures, and system configurations.
If you’re unsure about your readiness, consider conducting a gap analysis with a certified C3PAO to identify areas for improvement.
What if I don’t pass my assessment the first time? +
A: Failing a CMMC assessment doesn’t mean your organization is doomed. It’s a common occurrence, and many organizations require multiple attempts to achieve compliance. Here’s what you should do if you don’t pass:
- Analyze the Results: Carefully review the assessment report to identify the specific areas where you fell short.
- Develop a Remediation Plan: Create a detailed plan to address the identified gaps and implement the necessary corrective actions.
- Reschedule the Assessment: Once you’ve implemented the necessary changes, you can schedule a follow-up assessment to demonstrate compliance.
Why reserve your spot today? +
A: There are several reasons to reserve your spot for a CMMC assessment:
- Limited C3PAO Availability: The demand for CMMC assessments is high, and C3PAO availability can be limited. Reserving your spot early ensures you have access to a qualified assessor.
- Proactive Compliance: By starting the assessment process sooner, you can identify potential gaps and address them proactively, avoiding costly delays.
- Demonstrate Commitment: Reserving your spot shows your commitment to cybersecurity and can enhance your reputation among customers and partners.
Can you do an assessment remotely? +
A: Yes, many C3PAOs offer remote assessment services. Remote assessments can be conducted using virtual tools and technologies, reducing the need for on-site visits. However, some aspects of the assessment, such as physical infrastructure reviews, may require on-site presence.
How does a C3PAO determine if I pass? +
A: C3PAOs use a rigorous evaluation process to determine if an organization passes a CMMC assessment. This process typically involves:
- Document Review: Examining relevant documentation, such as policies, procedures, and system configurations.
- Interviews: Conducting interviews with key personnel to gather information about your organization’s cybersecurity practices.
- Testing: Conducting tests and assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of your security controls.
Based on these evaluations, the C3PAO will assess your organization’s compliance with the CMMC requirements and determine whether you pass or fail.
In addition to these methods, C3PAOs often rely on an objective evidence list to support their assessment. This list outlines the specific types of evidence required to demonstrate compliance with the CMMC requirements. This evidence can include:
- System configurations: Documentation of system settings and configurations.
- Security controls: Evidence of implemented security controls, such as access control measures, incident response plans, and data protection policies.
- Risk assessments: Documentation of risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
- Training records: Evidence of employee training on cybersecurity best practices.
By reviewing this objective evidence, C3PAOs can verify your organization’s compliance with the CMMC requirements and make an informed determination about your assessment status. Check out our assessors playbook to guide you.
The Importance of Re-Assessments
CMMC compliance is an ongoing process. To maintain your certification, you’ll need to undergo re-assessments every three years. These re-assessments help ensure that your organization continues to meet the evolving requirements of the CMMC framewor
Why Choose KLC Consulting for Your Re-Assessment?
- Cost Savings: By returning to KLC Consulting for your re-assessment, you can potentially save on costs due to our familiarity with your organization and its systems.
- Continuity: Our team will have a deep understanding of your organization’s cybersecurity landscape, allowing for a more efficient and effective assessment.
- Expert Guidance: We can provide valuable insights and recommendations to help you maintain compliance and address any emerging cybersecurity threats.
Conquer Your Assessment with Our Free Playbook
Demystify your CMMC Level 2 Assessment! Our free playbook simplifies the official “Objective Evidence List” from the DCMA DIBCAC. Get clear insights into C3PAO expectations for each security practice and what evidence they’ll require. Be fully prepared to ace your assessment.
