In a digital age of security threats and cyberattacks, being compliant has become something of a necessity for businesses. In fact, according to Tech Jury, “Globally, 30,000 websites are hacked daily.” That’s why the CMMC certification process exists—Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification is a certification program created by the Department of Defense (DoD) to ensure that contractors comply with the DFARS cybersecurity standards and protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
However, it can be a lengthy and even complex process for many businesses to obtain the CMMC certification. The following is an overview of the CMMC timeline and the steps involved for those who must get CMMC compliant:
All You Need to Know About The CMMC Certification Process
The CMMC certification process is broken down into four key stages:
1. Gap Analysis
This stage involves assessing the current security infrastructure and identifying any areas of weakness, then creating a plan to address them.
2. Implementation
The next step is implementing the measures outlined in the gap analysis and ensuring that all systems comply with CMMC standards such as NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, and other relevant standards.
3. Pre-Assessment
The pre-assessment stage focuses on making sure that the implementation of the security measures is properly documented and that all related processes are followed correctly.
4. Assessment
Finally, once the above steps have been completed, the organization will be assessed to make sure they meet CMMC standards.
Factors That Influence the CMMC Timeline
The CMMC timeline for getting certified will vary depending on a few factors, including:
- The CMMC level you are seeking
- Your existing cybersecurity infrastructure
- The number of locations you have
- When the C3PAO is available to perform the Certification Assessment
Keep in mind that the higher the level you are seeking and the fewer security measures you currently have in place, the longer the CMMC timeline for certification may be. For example, if you only have basic security infrastructure in place and are aiming for a CMMC Level 5 certification, you could be looking at up to 6 months before the process is complete.
Ultimately, the CMMC timeline will depend on your starting point, but regardless of how long it takes, it’s important to remember that the CMMC certification process is worth the effort. By ensuring that your organization is compliant, you’ll be able to protect your data and avoid potential penalties from the DoD.
Your Expert Compliance Partner is Ready to Help at Full Send Networks
The CMMC certification process is not something to be taken lightly. At Full Send Networks, we are experts in helping companies achieve their CMMC compliance goals. We can guide you through the entire process, from gap analysis to certification, and make sure that you have all of the necessary tools in place for success.
Staying compliant can mean the difference between success and failure, so don’t hesitate to take that step toward cybersecurity! Contact us today and get started on your compliance journey.
