The need for strong cybersecurity measures has never been more evident. If your business contracts with the Department of Defense (DoD) or plans to, meeting the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements is not optional—it’s a necessity. CMMC Level 2 compliance is particularly critical for organizations handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). 

This article will guide you through the process of preparing for CMMC Level 2 compliance, provide insight into its requirements, and offer practical steps to ensure your business is ready for an official CMMC audit. 

Who Needs CMMC Level 2 Compliance? 

If your business is a contractor or subcontractor for the DoD and deals with sensitive information vital to national security, you need CMMC Level 2 compliance. Level 2 is specifically required for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), Controlled Technical Information (CTI), ITAR export-controlled data, or Federal Contract Information (FCI) shared in unclassified but protected channels. 

Why does this matter? Without CMMC Level 2 certification, your business cannot bid on or retain DoD contracts involving CUI. Non-compliance not only risks losing contracts but can also result in penalties if your organization misrepresents its security posture. 

How to Know if You Have CUI 

CUI encompasses a wide variety of sensitive data deemed unclassified but requiring safeguarding due to its importance. Examples include:

  • Personally Identifiable Information (PII) 
  • Confidential Business Information 
  • Protected Health Information (PHI) 
  • Critical Infrastructure Data 
  • Law Enforcement Information (CJIS) 

If your contracts include clauses such as DFARS 252.204-7012, 252.204-7019, 252.204-7020, or 252.204-7021, your organization is expected to protect DoD-specified CUI. You can consult with your contracting officer for clarity on whether you manage CUI. 

Understanding CMMC Level 2 Compliance 

CMMC Level 2 is built on the foundation of NIST 800-171 requirements and encompasses 110 cybersecurity controls across 15 domains. These controls are designed to establish intermediate cyber hygiene practices and secure sensitive DoD-related information. 

Key domains include:

  1. Access Control (AC): Ensures only authorized users can access systems or data. 
  2. Audit and Accountability (AU): Tracks activities in your systems and ensures logs are protected. 
  3. Incident Response (IR): Requires a plan for detecting and managing security incidents. 
  4. System and Communications Protection (SC): Implements encryption to safeguard transmitted information. 
  5. Awareness and Training (AT): Educates employees on security risks and best practices. 

These domains enforce baseline security measures, including monitoring access events, auditing configurations, training staff on cybersecurity, and promptly addressing breaches or threats. 

Steps to Achieve CMMC Level 2 Compliance 

Preparing for CMMC Level 2 compliance is a thorough process that requires planning, resources, and time. Here’s how to get started: 

1. Familiarize Yourself with CMMC Level 2 Requirements 

Study the full list of 110 controls and 320 assessment objectives for CMMC Level 2 and understand how they apply to your operations and IT systems. 

2. Conduct a Gap Analysis 

Evaluate your existing cybersecurity practices against the CMMC requirements. Identify gaps in compliance and areas for improvement. 

3. Develop a Remediation Plan 

Create an action plan to address the gaps identified in your assessment. Break this plan into achievable milestones to make progress manageable. 

4. Create a System Security Plan (SSP) 

Document your security measures, covering how your organization handles and protects CUI. Include policies, systems, and users in your documentation. 

5. Set Up Technical Controls 

Implement tools and techniques to meet CMMC level 2 requirements, such as:

  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Secures access to systems. 
  • Patch Management Systems: Ensures the latest updates are installed to reduce vulnerabilities. 
  • Encryption Mechanisms: Protects sensitive data during storage and transmission. 

6. Educate and Train Your Team 

Train employees handling CUI on cybersecurity protocols, phishing prevention, and secure communication practices. Educating your workforce reduces internal threats. 

7. Conduct Regular Self-Assessments 

Use NIST scoring methods to evaluate your CMMC readiness. Identify any remaining issues and resolve them well before the official assessment. 

8. Engage a Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) 

Schedule an audit with a certified C3PAO to certify your company’s compliance with CMMC Level 2. 

Level 2 Compliance Requirements Checklist 

To summarize, here’s a quick CMMC Level 2 requirements checklist to ensure your organization stays on track:

  • Review contracts for DFARS clauses indicating CMMC compliance obligations. 
  • Perform a robust gap analysis of current security measures. 
  • Address compliance gaps through remediation and resource allocation. 
  • Implement technical controls across all 15 domains. 
  • Train personnel and document policies to meet process maturity standards. 
  • Conduct internal audits and adjust strategies based on findings. 
  • Schedule a third-party assessment for final certification. 

Tips for Successful CMMC Audit Readiness 

Failing CMMC inspections often comes down to poor preparation. Here are some tips to ensure you pass your CMMC audit on the first attempt:

  • No Documentation, No Audit: CMMC auditors cannot proceed unless all required documents (e.g., SSPs, patch records, training logs) are meticulously organized. 
  • Eliminate Last-Minute Scrambles: Begin your compliance efforts far in advance. It can take 6–18 months to prepare effectively. 
  • Understand Auditors’ Criteria: Demonstrating process maturity is just as critical as technical controls. Be ready to showcase sustainability and implementation success. 

The Importance of Compliance for DoD Contractors 

Securing CMMC Level 2 certification doesn’t just open doors to DoD contracts—it positions your business as a trusted partner that prioritizes cybersecurity. By meeting these enhanced standards, you protect sensitive information, reduce exposure to cyber threats, and ensure long-term viability in a competitive industry. 

Partner with Axiom for CMMC Level 2 Success 

Do you need help navigating the complexities of CMMC Level 2 requirements and preparing for your audit? Axiom specializes in guiding businesses like yours through compliance, from gap assessments to final certification. Take the first step toward cybersecurity readiness by booking a consultation with our experts.