CMMC
DoD certification for DIB cybersecurity maturity levels
COBIT
Global framework for enterprise I&T governance and management.
Quick Verdict
CMMC mandates cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI via tiered assessments, while COBIT provides voluntary IT governance framework for enterprises aligning strategy with value. DoD firms adopt CMMC for contracts; others use COBIT for risk management.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0
Key Features
- Three cumulative levels aligned to FAR/NIST controls
- Third-party C3PAO assessments for Level 2 assurance
- Enclave scoping for targeted FCI/CUI protection
- Annual SPRS affirmations with 3-year certifications
- Limited POA&Ms requiring 180-day closures
COBIT
COBIT 2019 Governance and Management Objectives
Key Features
- 40 objectives across 5 domains (EDM, APO, BAI, DSS, MEA)
- 11 design factors for tailored governance systems
- CMMI-based capability levels 0-5 for performance management
- Goals cascade linking stakeholder needs to IT outcomes
- Separation of governance from management responsibilities
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
CMMC Details
What It Is
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 is a DoD certification framework verifying cybersecurity for Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It uses a tiered, risk-based model with three cumulative levels.
Key Components
- 14 domains (e.g., Access Control, Incident Response) with 17 practices at Level 1 (FAR 52.204-21), 110 at Level 2 (NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2), plus 24 at Level 3 (NIST SP 800-172).
- Built on NIST controls; certification via self-assessments (Level 1/2), C3PAO (Level 2), or DIBCAC (Level 3).
- SPRS/eMASS reporting, annual affirmations, limited POA&Ms (180-day closure).
Why Organizations Use It
Mandated for DoD contractors/subcontractors; ensures contract eligibility, reduces supply-chain risks, enhances resilience against APTs. Provides competitive advantage, operational maturity, and trust.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: scoping/gap analysis, remediation, assessment preparation. Applies to all DIB sizes; complex for multi-tier chains. Requires SSP, evidence collection, triennial recertification.
COBIT Details
What It Is
COBIT 2019 (Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies) is a comprehensive governance and management framework developed by ISACA for enterprise information and technology (I&T). Its primary purpose is to help organizations create value from I&T, manage risks, and optimize resources by aligning stakeholder needs with actionable objectives. It employs a tailored, design-factor-driven approach with 40 objectives across five domains.
Key Components
- **Five domainsEDM (governance), APO (align/plan/organize), BAI (build/acquire/implement), DSS (deliver/service/support), MEA (monitor/evaluate/assess).
- 40 governance and management objectives in the core model.
- Six governance system principles and seven components (processes, structures, etc.).
- CMMI-based performance management (levels 0-5); no formal certification, but capability assessments.
Why Organizations Use It
- Drives strategic alignment, risk optimization, and compliance (e.g., SOX, GDPR mappings).
- Enhances auditability via MEA04 Managed Assurance.
- Builds stakeholder trust through measurable outcomes and interoperability with ITIL, NIST.
Implementation Overview
- **Phased design workflowAssess gaps, tailor via 11 design factors, pilot objectives, measure capabilities.
- Suited for medium-large enterprises across industries; involves training (COBIT certifications), RACI, pilots.
- No mandatory certification; focuses on internal assurance and continuous improvement. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | COBIT |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cybersecurity for DoD FCI/CUI protection | Enterprise IT governance and management |
| Industry | Defense Industrial Base contractors | All industries, global enterprises |
| Nature | Mandatory DoD certification program | Voluntary governance framework |
| Testing | Self-assess/C3PAO/DIBCAC every 3 years | Capability assessments (0-5 levels) |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility, debarment | No formal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and COBIT
CMMC FAQ
COBIT FAQ
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