CMMC
DoD certification framework for DIB cybersecurity maturity levels
IEC 62443
International standard for IACS cybersecurity frameworks
Quick Verdict
CMMC mandates NIST-aligned cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI via tiered assessments, ensuring supply chain compliance. IEC 62443 provides voluntary OT/IACS standards with zones, security levels, and supplier lifecycle requirements for industrial resilience worldwide.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0
Key Features
- Three cumulative levels for FCI, CUI, APT protection
- Self, C3PAO, DIBCAC assessment paths by level
- Direct NIST 800-171/172 and FAR control mapping
- Mandatory subcontractor flow-down via DFARS clauses
- 180-day POA&M closure with SPRS affirmations
IEC 62443
IEC 62443: Security for industrial automation systems
Key Features
- Zones and conduits for risk-based segmentation
- Security Levels SL-T, SL-C, SL-A triad
- Shared responsibility across stakeholders model
- Seven Foundational Requirements FR1-FR7
- ISASecure modular certification schemes
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 U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) certification program ensuring 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, and NIST SP 800-172.
Key Components
- **LevelsLevel 1 (17 basic FAR controls for FCI); Level 2 (110 NIST 800-171 controls for CUI); Level 3 (+24 NIST 800-172 for APTs).
- 14 domains (e.g., Access Control, Incident Response, Risk Assessment).
- Assessment via self, C3PAO, or DIBCAC; SSP, POA&Ms (180-day limit), SPRS/eMASS reporting.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for DoD contracts/solicitations to avoid disqualification.
- Mitigates supply chain risks, reduces breaches, lowers insurance costs.
- Builds competitive edge, primes prefer certified subs; enhances resilience/reputation.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: governance, scoping/gaps, remediation, assessment, sustainment (6-18 months).
- Targets all DIB primes/subs handling FCI/CUI; high costs for SMEs ($100K+).
- Requires evidence collection, training, continuous monitoring.
IEC 62443 Details
What It Is
IEC 62443 is the international consensus-based series of standards for securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). It provides a comprehensive, risk-based framework spanning governance, risk assessment, system architecture, and component requirements tailored to OT environments with unique constraints like safety and availability.
Key Components
- Four groupings: General (-1), Policies (-2), System (-3), Components (-4)
- Seven Foundational Requirements (FR1-7) like authentication, integrity, and availability
- Zones/conduits model and Security Levels (SL0-4) with SL-T/C/A
- ~140 component requirements; maturity levels (ML1-4); ISASecure certifications (SDLA, CSA, SSA)
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates OT cyber risks impacting safety/production
- Meets regulatory references (e.g., NIS-2, NERC CIP)
- Enables supplier assurance, procurement specs, insurance benefits
- Builds stakeholder trust via certified compliance
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance (2-1), risk/segmentation (3-2), controls (3-3/4-2). Applies to critical infrastructure globally; requires OT expertise, audits, certifications for high-maturity.
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | IEC 62443 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | NIST-based cybersecurity for FCI/CUI protection | IACS/OT lifecycle security with zones/conduits |
| Industry | DoD contractors and subcontractors | Industrial automation across sectors globally |
| Nature | Mandatory DoD certification program | Voluntary international consensus standards |
| Testing | Self/C3PAO/DIBCAC assessments every 3 years | ISASecure modular certifications for components/systems |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility and debarment | No legal penalties, market/reputational risks |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and IEC 62443
CMMC FAQ
IEC 62443 FAQ
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