If your organization works with the Department of Defense (DoD) – either directly or through the supply chain – Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is no longer something you can treat as a future problem.
CMMC enforcement has changed. What was once largely self-attested is now moving into an era of validation, audits, and real consequences for organizations that claim compliance without evidence.
This article breaks down what’s changed, what CMMC Level 1 and Level 2 really mean in practice, and how organizations can prepare without taking on unnecessary risk.
What Is CMMC? And Why Does It Matter Now?
CMMC was created to protect sensitive government information across the defense industrial base. The updated regulations require organizations providing products or services to the DoD to demonstrate cybersecurity practices aligned with defined maturity levels.
The key shift is enforcement.
Organizations can no longer simply say they are compliant. Audits are beginning, and organizations that misrepresent their compliance status may face serious consequences, including contract loss, penalties, or exposure under the False Claims Act.
For many businesses, the risk isn’t malicious intent; it’s assumption. Many organizations believe they are compliant without having formally assessed their controls, documentation, or processes.
CMMC Level 1 vs. Level 2 (High-Level Overview)
While CMMC includes multiple maturity levels, most organizations will fall into one of these categories:
CMMC Level 1
- Focuses on basic cyber hygiene
- Protects Federal Contract Information (FCI)
- Requires foundational security practices
- Involves a self-assessment
CMMC Level 2
- Applies to organizations handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
- Requires alignment with NIST 800-171 controls
- More detailed documentation and evidence
- Can involve a self-assessment or certification process
In most cases, your required CMMC level is already defined in a contract, solicitation, or purchase order. If CMMC is referenced, the obligation exists, whether readiness work has begun or not.
The Common Mistake: Assuming Compliance
A common scenario we see:
“We already have security tools in place, so we’re probably compliant.”
Unfortunately, CMMC readiness isn’t just about having tools; it also includes:
- Documented policies
- Consistent processes
- Evidence that controls are operating as required
- Alignment between technical and administrative safeguards
In instances where an organization has not achieved readiness, it risks discovering gaps during an audit – when it’s too late to address them calmly or affordably.
What CMMC Readiness Actually Looks Like
What CMMC Readiness Actually Looks Like
CMMC readiness is not a single event. It’s a structured process that includes:
- Understanding which CMMC level applies
- Evaluating current cybersecurity practices
- Identifying gaps against required controls
- Preparing documentation and evidence
- Aligning people, processes, and technology
- Completing required self-assessments accurately
Readiness includes interpreting controls correctly, documenting implementation, and ensuring everything reflects reality, not assumptions.
How IntelliSystems Helps: CMMC Backstop
At IntelliSystems, we work with organizations that want to do this correctly, without overcomplicating or underestimating the process.
CMMC Backstop™ is our advisory-led approach to CMMC readiness for Level 1 and Level 2.
We don’t certify organizations. Instead, we act as guides, advisors, and backstops, working alongside your team to prepare for compliance in a defensible way.
Our role includes:
- Helping determine applicable CMMC requirements
- Guiding self-assessment efforts
- Identifying and prioritizing gaps
- Assisting with policy and documentation development
- Aligning technical and administrative controls
- Preparing evidence for audits or reviews
This collaborative approach ensures your organization understands its responsibilities—and can confidently stand behind its compliance claims.
Why Work With IntelliSystems
CMMC readiness sits at the intersection of cybersecurity, compliance, and real-world operations. That’s where IntelliSystems excels.
- Registered CMMC Practitioner on staff
- 100+ years of combined experience in cybersecurity and compliance
- Experience supporting regulated and high-trust environments
- A hybrid managed services and advisory model
We focus on clarity, accountability, and practical execution. No fear-based selling.
A Simple First Step: Check Your Readiness
Not sure where you stand today?
A simple readiness check can reveal whether you’re closer to compliance or more exposed than you realize. Even a few unanswered questions can indicate the need for guidance before enforcement or audits occur.
Final Thoughts
CMMC compliance is no longer theoretical. It’s enforceable, auditable, and tied directly to your ability to do business with the DoD.
The good news: organizations that start early, seek guidance, and approach readiness methodically are far better positioned to succeed.
If you want clarity on what’s required and how to move forward, IntelliSystems can help.
Because compliance claims should be backed by evidence – not assumptions.