CMMC
DoD framework certifying cybersecurity maturity for defense contractors
FedRAMP
U.S. program standardizing federal cloud security authorization
Quick Verdict
CMMC certifies DoD contractors' cybersecurity for FCI/CUI protection via tiered assessments, while FedRAMP authorizes federal cloud providers through NIST baselines and continuous monitoring. Organizations adopt them for contract eligibility and secure government cloud access.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0
Key Features
- Three cumulative levels protecting FCI, CUI, APT threats
- Third-party C3PAO and DIBCAC verification assessments
- Mandatory supply chain flow-down via DFARS clauses
- Enclave scoping for targeted system compliance
- POA&Ms limited to 180-day closure timelines
FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Key Features
- Assess once, use many times reuse model
- NIST 800-53 baselines at Low/Moderate/High levels
- Independent 3PAO security assessments required
- Continuous monitoring with monthly deliverables
- FedRAMP Marketplace for authorized CSP listings
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 protections 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 drawn from FAR 52.204-21, NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 (110 controls), and NIST SP 800-172 (24 enhancements).
Key Components
- 14 domains (e.g., Access Control, Incident Response) spanning 17 Level 1, 110 Level 2, and 134 Level 3 practices.
- Assessments via self-assessment (Level 1/2), C3PAO (Level 2), or DIBCAC (Level 3), reported to SPRS/eMASS.
- POA&Ms allowed with 180-day closures; enclave scoping for boundaries.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandated for DoD contracts, ensuring eligibility and flow-down compliance. Reduces breach risks, enhances resilience, builds supply-chain trust, and provides competitive procurement advantages amid $57B+ annual cyber losses.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: scoping/gap analysis, remediation, assessment preparation, certification, sustainment. Targets DIB primes/subcontractors (300K+ firms); 12-18 months typical, high complexity/cost ($100K+), annual affirmations required.
FedRAMP Details
What It Is
FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) is a U.S. government-wide framework standardizing security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud services used by federal agencies. Its primary purpose is enabling "assess once, use many times" to reduce duplication, based on a risk-based approach using NIST SP 800-53 controls mapped to FIPS 199 impact levels (Low, Moderate, High).
Key Components
- Baselines with ~156 (Low), ~323 (Moderate), ~410 (High) controls, plus LI-SaaS variant.
- Core artifacts: SSP, SAR, POA&M, continuous monitoring plans.
- Built on NIST standards; involves 3PAOs for independent assessments.
- Compliance model: Agency or Program Authorization, listed on FedRAMP Marketplace.
Why Organizations Use It
- Unlocks federal contracts (e.g., $20M+ opportunities).
- Mandatory for CMMC-compliant federal cloud use; enhances risk management.
- Builds trust as security badge for commercial clients; competitive edge.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: preparation, assessment, authorization, monitoring (12-18 months typical).
- Gap analysis, documentation, 3PAO audits; suits CSPs targeting U.S. government.
- High resource needs; OSCAL for automation. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | FedRAMP |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI | Federal cloud services security assessment |
| Industry | Defense Industrial Base (DIB) | Cloud service providers (CSPs) for agencies |
| Nature | Mandatory DoD contract certification | Mandatory federal cloud authorization |
| Testing | Self/C3PAO/DIBCAC every 3 years | 3PAO assessment + continuous monitoring |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility/debarment | Revocation of authorization/market exclusion |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and FedRAMP
CMMC FAQ
FedRAMP FAQ
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