CMMC
DoD certification for DIB cybersecurity maturity levels
TOGAF
Vendor-neutral framework for enterprise architecture methodology
Quick Verdict
CMMC mandates cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI via tiered assessments, while TOGAF provides voluntary enterprise architecture methodology for aligning business strategy with IT. DoD firms adopt CMMC for contracts; enterprises use TOGAF for transformation governance.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification 2.0
Key Features
- Three cumulative levels protecting FCI, CUI, APT threats
- C3PAO third-party assessments for Level 2 certification
- Limited POA&Ms with strict 180-day closure rules
- DFARS flow-down mandates to subcontractors
- Phased rollout with annual SPRS affirmations
TOGAF
The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF)
Key Features
- Iterative Architecture Development Method (ADM)
- Content Framework and Metamodel for artifacts
- Enterprise Continuum for asset reuse
- Reference Models (TRM, SIB, III-RM)
- Architecture Capability Framework governance
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 program verifying cybersecurity protections for Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It uses a tiered, cumulative model with three levels, drawing from FAR 52.204-21, NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2, and NIST SP 800-172, emphasizing evidence-based assessments.
Key Components
- 14 domains (e.g., Access Control, Incident Response) with Level 1: 15 FAR practices; Level 2: 110 NIST 800-171 controls; Level 3: +24 NIST 800-172 enhancements.
- Assessment paths: self-assessments (Level 1/2), C3PAO (Level 2), DIBCAC (Level 3).
- Core elements: System Security Plan (SSP), limited POA&Ms (180-day closure), reporting via SPRS/eMASS.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandatory for DoD contractors/subcontractors handling FCI/CUI to secure contracts and avoid disqualification. Reduces cyber risks, enhances supply chain trust, lowers incident costs, and provides competitive bidding advantages through verified maturity.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: scoping/gap analysis, remediation, assessment preparation, certification, sustainment. Applies to all DIB organizations (primes/SMEs); triennial certifications with annual affirmations. Requires cross-functional teams, evidence collection, and continuous monitoring.
TOGAF Details
What It Is
TOGAF® Standard, or The Open Group Architecture Framework, is a vendor-neutral enterprise architecture framework. It enables designing, planning, implementing, and governing enterprise-wide change across business and IT via the iterative Architecture Development Method (ADM).
Key Components
- **ADM phasesPreliminary, A-H (Vision to Change Management), plus ongoing Requirements Management.
- **Content FrameworkDeliverables, artifacts (catalogs/matrices/diagrams), building blocks; Content Metamodel for entities/relationships.
- **Enterprise Continuum/RepositoryAsset classification/reuse.
- **Reference ModelsTRM, SIB, III-RM.
- **Capability FrameworkGovernance, board, compliance, skills. Open Group certification portfolio.
Why Organizations Use It
- Aligns strategy-IT for efficiency, ROI, reduced duplication.
- Supports governance, risk management, interoperability.
- Avoids vendor lock-in; builds reusable capabilities.
- Enhances stakeholder communication, transformation success.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: maturity assessment, pilot, scale; tailor ADM.
- Training, repository/tools, Architecture Board setup.
- Large enterprises, all industries; voluntary certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | TOGAF |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cybersecurity for FCI/CUI in DoD supply chain | Enterprise architecture across business/IT domains |
| Industry | Defense Industrial Base contractors | All industries, large enterprises globally |
| Nature | Mandatory DoD certification program | Voluntary EA methodology/framework |
| Testing | Self-assess/C3PAO/DIBCAC every 3 years | Architecture Board compliance reviews |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility/debarment | No penalties, internal governance only |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and TOGAF
CMMC FAQ
TOGAF FAQ
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