CMMC
DoD certification framework verifying DIB cybersecurity maturity
ISO 30301
International standard for management systems for records
Quick Verdict
CMMC mandates cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI via tiered assessments, while ISO 30301 provides voluntary records management systems for any organization ensuring auditable evidence lifecycles. DoD firms adopt CMMC for contracts; others use ISO 30301 for governance.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)
Key Features
- Tiered levels aligning FAR and NIST controls for FCI/CUI
- C3PAO third-party certifications with SPRS annual affirmations
- DIBCAC assessments for Level 3 APT protections
- Enclave scoping for targeted DIB supply chain compliance
- POA&Ms limited to 180-day closure mandates
ISO 30301
ISO 30301:2019 Management systems for records Requirements
Key Features
- High-Level Structure for MSS integration
- Normative Annex A operational records controls
- Explicit records requirements (Clause 4.1.2)
- Top management accountability and policy
- Flexible conformity pathways including certification
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) is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) certification program ensuring cybersecurity protections in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It verifies compliance with FAR 52.204-21 and NIST SP 800-171/172 via three tiered levels using risk-based scoping for FCI and CUI safeguarding.
Key Components
- Cumulative levels: Level 1 (17 FAR practices), Level 2 (110 NIST 800-171 controls), Level 3 (+24 NIST 800-172 enhancements)
- 14 domains including Access Control, Incident Response, Risk Assessment
- Assessment models: annual self-assessments (SPRS), C3PAO certifications (eMASS), DIBCAC for Level 3
- Core elements: SSPs, limited POA&Ms, flow-down requirements
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for DoD contract eligibility, preventing disqualification
- Mitigates supply chain risks, reduces breach costs, enhances resilience
- Builds competitive advantage, primes prefer certified subs
- Fosters trust, aligns with NIST frameworks for broader value
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance, scoping/gap analysis, remediation, assessment preparation, certification, sustainment. Targets DIB contractors/subcontractors; involves evidence collection, training, continuous monitoring. 3-year validity with annual affirmations; complex for SMEs, scalable via enclaves.
ISO 30301 Details
What It Is
ISO 30301:2019 (Information and documentation — Management systems for records — Requirements) is a certifiable international standard specifying requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving a Management System for Records (MSR). It applies to any organization, using a risk-based management system approach aligned with the High-Level Structure (HLS) for integration with other ISO standards.
Key Components
- **HLS clauses 4–10Context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
- **Clause 8 and Annex A (normative)Records lifecycle controls (creation, capture, access, retention, disposition).
- Core principles: Authenticity, reliability, integrity, usability.
- Conformity pathways: Self-declaration, external confirmation, third-party certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Ensures reliable evidence for governance, compliance, audits.
- Mitigates risks (loss, alteration, noncompliance); boosts efficiency, transparency.
- Builds stakeholder trust; integrates with ISO 9001, 27001.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: Gap analysis, policy design, operational controls, audits.
- Scalable for any size/sector; 9–18 months typical; certification optional.
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | ISO 30301 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cybersecurity for FCI/CUI protection | Records management lifecycle controls |
| Industry | DoD contractors/supply chain | All organizations/sectors worldwide |
| Nature | Mandatory certification for contracts | Voluntary management system standard |
| Testing | Self/C3PAO/DIBCAC assessments triennially | Self/external/third-party certification |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility/debarment | No legal penalties/loss of certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and ISO 30301
CMMC FAQ
ISO 30301 FAQ
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