In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 has emerged as a crucial framework for companies working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Meeting these standards is not only about safeguarding sensitive information but also a contractual requirement for doing business with the DoD. Achieving Level 2 of CMMC 2.0, which focuses on protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), is a significant milestone for organizations. However, many companies overlook one critical factor: your Managed Service Provider (MSP) must also be certified.
Here’s why having a non-certified MSP means your efforts to achieve CMMC 2.0 Level 2 might be doomed from the start.
The Importance of CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Certification
Before diving into the role of MSPs, it’s important to understand the relevance of CMMC 2.0 Level 2 certification. The DoD developed this framework to ensure that its contractors maintain a minimum level of cybersecurity hygiene. Level 2, in particular, is critical for organizations handling CUI, as it requires implementation of advanced security controls drawn from NIST SP 800-171.
Achieving Level 2 certification demonstrates that your organization can properly safeguard sensitive defense information, which is a key requirement for contracting with the DoD. But it’s not just your internal cybersecurity practices that matter—your entire supply chain, including your MSP, must comply with CMMC standards.
The Role of MSPs in Achieving CMMC 2.0 Compliance
An MSP typically handles a company’s IT infrastructure, cybersecurity monitoring, patch management, and sometimes even risk assessments. If your organization relies on an MSP to manage key aspects of your cybersecurity posture, they play an integral role in your CMMC 2.0 compliance journey.
Since CMMC 2.0 Level 2 requires adherence to stringent security controls, any third-party vendor that handles or manages your CUI must meet those same standards. If your MSP is not certified under CMMC, there’s a significant gap in your security chain, making it impossible for your organization to fully meet the certification requirements.
Risks of Partnering with a Non-Certified MSP
Here are several risks your organization faces if your MSP is not CMMC-certified:
1. Non-compliance with Key CMMC 2.0 Practices
CMMC 2.0 Level 2 involves 110 practices based on NIST SP 800-171 standards, including Access Control, Incident Response, and Audit Accountability. If your MSP isn’t certified, there is no guarantee they are implementing these necessary controls. This could lead to failed audits and ultimately disqualification from DoD contracts.
For example, one key practice involves ensuring secure and authorized access to CUI, which would be severely compromised if your MSP isn’t following the same rigorous security protocols.
2. Supply Chain Vulnerability
Cybersecurity is as strong as its weakest link, and if your MSP is not certified, they represent a weak point in your supply chain. Hackers and adversaries often look for the easiest way in, and if your MSP lacks the required controls, they could be the entry point for a cyberattack. Once breached, an attacker could gain access to sensitive CUI, leading to catastrophic data leaks, legal consequences, and loss of business.
3. Potential Fines and Legal Repercussions
The DoD has made it clear that non-compliance with CMMC can lead to serious legal repercussions. If your organization cannot meet the CMMC standards, not only will you be ineligible for new contracts, but existing contracts could also be terminated. In addition, false claims of compliance could open you up to lawsuits under the False Claims Act.
An MSP that isn’t certified may also be unfamiliar with these legal risks, leaving you vulnerable to actions that could harm your reputation and financial standing.
4. Misalignment with DoD Contractual Requirements
CMMC 2.0 isn’t just about protecting your company—it’s about meeting contractual obligations with the DoD. If your MSP is not certified, you are not in full alignment with the requirements of your contracts. The DoD expects all parts of the supply chain, including third-party vendors like MSPs, to meet these cybersecurity standards. Failure to do so can result in lost contracts and strained business relationships with the government.
Benefits of Partnering with a CMMC 2.0 Certified MSP
A certified MSP will ensure that your company can meet the necessary compliance requirements. But the benefits go beyond simply passing an audit. Here are some reasons why working with a certified MSP is critical:
1. Guaranteed Compliance
A certified MSP is well-versed in the specific requirements of CMMC 2.0 and can guarantee that they are implementing the necessary controls to protect CUI. This takes a huge burden off your internal teams, as you can trust that your IT infrastructure is in good hands.
2. Proactive Risk Management
Certified MSPs are more likely to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity, helping you manage risks before they turn into serious issues. They will continuously monitor your systems, apply timely patches, and conduct regular security assessments, ensuring that your business stays ahead of threats and in compliance with the latest CMMC guidelines.
3. Seamless Audits and Documentation
Achieving CMMC 2.0 Level 2 requires extensive documentation of your cybersecurity practices. A certified MSP will already have these processes in place and can provide the necessary documentation for auditors. This reduces the stress and workload on your in-house teams and ensures a smooth audit process.
4. Reduced Cybersecurity Breaches
MSPs certified under CMMC 2.0 Level 2 are required to implement the latest best practices for cybersecurity. This dramatically reduces the risk of breaches, ransomware attacks, and other threats that could compromise your systems and sensitive data.
The Future of CMMC and Third-Party Vendors
As CMMC 2.0 continues to evolve, the need for certified third-party vendors will only increase. The DoD is expected to require all vendors within the supply chain, including MSPs, to meet the necessary certification level, regardless of their direct involvement in handling CUI. If your MSP is not prepared for this shift, your business could face serious challenges in maintaining contracts and achieving future compliance milestones.
How Gray Beard Cyber Can Help
At Gray Beard Cybersecurity, we specialize in helping businesses navigate the complexities of CMMC 2.0 compliance. Whether you need a trusted CMMC-certified MSP or assistance in preparing your own systems for Level 2 certification, we provide tailored solutions that meet the highest cybersecurity standards.
We offer:
- Certified MSP Services: While nobody can be certified prior to the final rule being released, our team has undergone a CMMC 2.0 pre-assessment and will be certified in Q1 of 2025, ensuring your IT operations are fully compliant with DoD requirements.
- Risk Assessments and Gap Analysis: Identify where your current cybersecurity practices fall short and get actionable recommendations to close gaps.
- CMMC Audit Preparation: We guide you through the audit process, from initial readiness assessments to final certification.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Certify Wisely
Achieving CMMC 2.0 Level 2 is not just a checkbox—it’s a demonstration of your company’s commitment to security and compliance. However, your organization can’t do it alone. A non-certified MSP introduces risks that could derail your certification efforts. By partnering with a CMMC-certified MSP, you not only protect your business but also position yourself for long-term success in the defense contracting industry.
At Gray Beard Cyber, we make sure your entire cybersecurity ecosystem is up to the task. Don’t let your MSP be the weak link in your compliance journey. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve and maintain CMMC 2.0 Level 2 certification.
Gray Beard Cybersecurity
Gray Beard Cybersecurity is an award-winning cybersecurity firm and managed IT provider with offices in Nashville, TN, Plano, TX, and Tucson, AZ. They specialize in assessing and reducing cyber risk for small and mid-sized businesses. They can reduce complex technical problems and solutions down to the simplest of terms that any business owner can understand, regardless of technology literacy.