CMMC buzzword versus actual controls

Overview

Defense contractors chase CMMC Level 2—know difference between marketing and assessment readiness.

Reality

Controls span FCI/CUI handling—not just “we installed CMMC antivirus.”

MSP role boundary

You may act as a Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO) partner—the prime contractor owns certification; the MSP supplies auditable evidence and implements agreed controls.

Scoping workshop

Identify CUI flows; segment networks; document enclaves.

Assessors

C3PAO scheduling early—queues lengthen after rule changes.

Education

Sales refrain “CMMC compliant MSP” until third-party validates narrow scope actually achieved blunt honesty wins RFPs later.