Companies that want to work with the Department of Defense (DoD) must meet high cybersecurity standards to safeguard sensitive government data. As part of the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), these companies are subject to rigorous compliance frameworks—including the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) —and must prioritize CMMC readiness early in the process.
A readiness assessment is often the first step in preparing for official CMMC certification. It evaluates existing controls, identifies gaps, and guides organizations toward full compliance.
This blog outlines how to conduct a CMMC readiness assessment in three critical steps:
- Gauge existing controls against CMMC standards
- Execute a mock CMMC audit based on Practices and Levels
- Augment your security architecture to close any gaps
Step 1: Gauge Existing Cybersecurity Controls
Before diving into CMMC-specific requirements, your organization should evaluate its current cybersecurity posture. Many companies already comply with other frameworks—like PCI DSS, HIPAA, or ISO 27001—which may overlap with CMMC requirements.
If your organization uses a unified framework such as the HITRUST CSF, mapping to CMMC becomes more straightforward. The HITRUST CSF has published mappings to NIST SP 800-171, which informs most of CMMC’s Level 2 requirements.
Start by:
- Reviewing current policies, controls, and procedures
- Mapping existing frameworks to CMMC practices
- Identifying overlaps and unique CMMC gaps
For contractors with limited overlap, focus directly on DoD-specific standards like DFARS and NIST SP 800-171.
Understanding DFARS Requirements
The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) outlines cybersecurity obligations for DoD contractors. Several clauses directly support the implementation of CMMC:
- 252.204-7012: Requires safeguarding of Covered Defense Information (CDI) and reporting cyber incidents
- 252.204-7019 & 7020: Require self-assessments and submission of NIST SP 800-171 scores to the DoD’s Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS)
- 252.204-7021: Formally mandates CMMC certification for applicable contracts
Organizations that already meet NIST SP 800-171 requirements are well-positioned for CMMC Level 2 readiness. However, a readiness assessment ensures that every required control is properly implemented.
Step 2: Execute a Mock CMMC Audit
With existing controls documented, the next phase is simulating a full CMMC assessment. This includes:
- Testing against the 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls (for Level 2)
- Verifying implementation of security Practices across Domains
- Reviewing the maturity of Processes based on the required Level
CMMC Levels Overview
- Level 1 – Foundational
- 17 basic practices
- Focused on safeguarding Federal Contract Information (FCI)
- Annual self-assessment required
- Level 2 – Advanced
- 110 controls from NIST SP 800-171
- Applies to Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
- Requires third-party assessment by a Certified Third Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) for organizations handling CUI tied to national security programs; some may self-assess
- Level 3 – Expert
- Includes enhanced controls from NIST SP 800-172
- Applies to organizations facing Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
- Requires government-led assessments
During your mock audit, use NIST SP 800-171A to verify if your implementation meets assessment objectives for each control.
Step 3: Close Gaps and Augment Security
Once your gaps are identified, the final step is remediation:
- Update controls that fall short of CMMC standards
- Document policies and procedures to support implementation
- Train staff to institutionalize security practices
- Validate fixes through repeat mock audits or internal testing
If you’re pursuing CMMC Level 2 or higher, you’ll need a Certified Third Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) to conduct the official audit. RSI Security is an authorized C3PAO, ready to guide you through this entire process.
Why CMMC Readiness Matters Now
As of August 2025, the CMMC rule is in effect and official assessments are well underway. Certification requirements are now appearing in new DoD contracts, with full implementation slated for 2028.
A thorough CMMC readiness assessment positions your organization for success—helping you meet DoD standards, avoid disqualification, and secure sensitive government data.
Prepare for CMMC Certification with Confidence
CMMC readiness isn’t just a box to check—it’s a commitment to national security and long-term business growth.
Whether you’re at the starting line or need help refining your controls, RSI Security can support your journey from gap assessment to certification. As an authorized C3PAO with deep NIST and DFARS expertise, we deliver cost-effective, tailored support for every step of the process.
Contact RSI Security today to schedule your CMMC readiness assessment.
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