Which cloud giant helps get you there faster?
As more and more defense contractors move toward CMMC compliance, the cloud platform they choose isn’t just about productivity anymore. It’s also about survival. If you’re handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), your chosen cloud system could make or break your compliance climb. So, when it comes to Microsoft vs. Google, who’s really set up to help you meet the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) security requirements?
Microsoft vs. Google: Microsoft Built for Defense-Grade Compliance
Microsoft has spent years aligning its platforms (especially Microsoft 365 Government (GCC High) and Azure Government) with federal and defense standards. Some of the features include:
- FedRAMP High authorized
- DFARS 7012, NIST 800-171, and CMMC alignment
- US-based data centers and personnel (GCC High)
GCC High is a necessity for contractors handling sensitive CUI. It’s designed specifically for compliance with DFARS and CMMC. While the licensing and migration can be complex (and expensive), Microsoft is the clear leader when it comes to adhering to compliance standards.
What are the Features of Azure Government?
- FedRAMP High authorization
- Attestation of compliance with the DFARS Clause 252.204-7012
- DoD Cloud Computing Security Requirements Guide (SRG)
- Contractual commitments regarding storage of customer data in the U.S.
- Limiting potential access to systems processing customer data to screened US persons
- NIST SP 800-171 Azure regulatory compliance built-in initiative
*Most DIB contractors are best aligned with Azure government due to the extra layer of protection*
Microsoft vs. Google: Google Playing Catch-Up in the Defense Space
Google Workspace has made significant strides in government and education markets, but it’s still trying to catch-up in the area of defense compliance.
- FedRAMP Moderate for Google Workspace
- FedRAMP High Authority
- GCC High Equivalent
- Limited support for DFARS/CMMC
- Often require third-party tools or overlay solutions
With that being said, Google is still viable for organizations handling non-CUI workloads or operating early stages of CMMC Level 1. But when you need airtight boundaries and verified compliance with NIST 800-171 across all 110 controls, Google’s ecosystem requires more custom effort. “CMMC Level 1 compliance, all Google Cloud products can support your compliance needs. To achieve CMMC Level 2 and/or Level 3 compliance, DoD contractors managing CUI must leverage cloud solutions that offer a minimum of FedRAMP Moderate authorized cloud services” (GC).
But isn’t Google Workspace more cost effective? It’s true that choosing Google Workspace may appear to be the most cost-effective (at $30 per user/month) when looking at their standard services. But additional security tools and compliance add-ons tend to make it more expensive later on. And to fill in the gaps that Google Workspace doesn’t grant in their base option, many organizations have to end up purchasing third-party tools.
Microsoft vs. Google Final Verdict: Microsoft Wins for CMMC-Ready Infrastructure
Another critical factor is inherited controls. Both Microsoft and Google offer some shared responsibility, but Microsoft goes further in helping you map those controls to SSPs and POA&Ms.
Microsoft 365 the only platform that provides solutions for organizations requiring compliance with DFARS 7012, CMMC, and ITAR. Unlike Google Workspace, which depends on third-party tools and manual configurations, Microsoft delivers native security, automation, and dedicated government cloud environments that meet and exceed regulatory requirements.
For those who are serious about compliance, security, and efficiency, Microsoft 365 Government is the clear choice.
If you’re serious about reaching CMMC Level 2 or higher, Microsoft offers the most defense-grade solutions and provides a platform that speaks the language of CMMC.
Need help navigating GCC High or understanding more about CMMC? Reach out to us.