The Complete Guide To CMMC Costs

This blog explores the key cost factors involved in CMMC compliance, including the role of technology, processes, and the distinction between different compliance levels.

A General Overview of CMMC Costs

CMMC costs can vary significantly, often leading to some misconceptions and high estimates. The DoD has suggested that achieving compliance could cost around $300,000, with additional recurring monthly expenses. This figure encompasses the technology needed and the processes and procedures required to implement and manage cybersecurity measures effectively.

Achieving CMMC compliance involves more than just installing the latest security technology. It requires a thorough review and adjustment of IT and business management processes, ensuring that they align with the requirements of CMMC, DFARS 252.204-7012, and NIST 800-171. Although these standards are derived from NIST 800-171 and are largely similar, CMMC introduces new rules and mandates a third-party audit, which is a major cost driver.

Identifying Your CMMC Requirement

Before diving into costs, it’s crucial to identify your specific CMMC requirement. The level of compliance needed depends on the sensitivity of the Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and the Federal Contract Information (FCI) you handle. CMMC has three levels:

Level 1: Basic cybersecurity practices do not require a third-party audit. It is ideal for organizations handling less sensitive information.
Level 2: More advanced practices requiring certification from an external vendor.
Level 3: Reserved for handling highly sensitive CUI, necessitating a government-conducted audit.

If you’re a tier 2 supplier working with a DoD prime contractor, you may need either Level 1 or Level 2 certification based on the sensitivity of the information you receive. The prime contractor’s requirements will guide this decision. In some cases, CUI can be excluded from the data you handle, which may lower your required compliance level.

Locating and Managing CUI

Understanding where your CUI is stored and how it is managed is a significant aspect of CMMC compliance. CUI might be in your email, document storage systems, or shop computers running CNCs and other equipment. Identifying these locations is crucial for ensuring compliance.

Storage Options:

On-premise servers allow for more data storage control but require a different investment level. They do not need FedRAMP certification because they will be CMMC certified, offering flexibility in data storage.
Cloud Solutions: Services like Microsoft 365 GCC commonly store CUI due to their FedRAMP certification. They offer a more cost-effective solution than maintaining on-premise servers but may not be suitable for all industries.

Evaluate your current systems and decide whether to adapt your workflows or invest in new technologies to meet CMMC requirements. Be cautious of vendors promising compliance through a single technology solution, as CMMC compliance covers a broad range of areas beyond just document storage.

Choosing Compliance Solutions

Once you understand where your CUI is stored, you’ll need to identify appropriate compliance solutions. This step should be approached carefully to avoid making premature purchases. Work with a qualified cybersecurity governance practitioner who can guide you through the nuances of CMMC controls and requirements.

A seasoned practitioner will help you interpret and implement the controls from NIST 800-171A, which detail specific test procedures for compliance. This plan will outline the necessary updates to your policies, procedures, and technology, allowing you to estimate the costs of migration and updates.

Understanding Upfront and Recurring CMMC Costs

You must evaluate the costs involved after identifying your compliance requirements and necessary updates. These include:

Upfront Costs: Investments in technology, process changes, and policy updates.
Recurring Costs: Ongoing expenses for maintaining compliance, such as Managed Services Providers (MSSPs) fees.

MSSPs typically offer their services on a per-endpoint-per-month basis. The cost ranges from $150 to $500 per computer per month, depending on the services provided. Outsourcing IT management or handling it in-house will influence your recurring expenses.

Drive down CMMC costs and achieve compliance with BL King at your side today.

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Managed Services Providers: The Role of CMMC Consulting Experts

When it comes to achieving CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance, outsourcing your IT and cybersecurity management to a Managed Services Provider (MSSP) can be a strategic move. However, this decision comes with specific requirements and considerations:

CMMC Certification for MSSPs

CMMC certification is essential because it guarantees that the MSSP has the necessary expertise and controls to manage and protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) per CMMC standards. Essentially, the MSSP’s certification precedes yours, meaning they must be compliant before you can achieve your certification.

Bundled Services and Pricing Models

MSSPs typically offer their services on a per-endpoint-per-month basis. This means they bundle all their offerings—ranging from day-to-day IT management to ongoing compliance maintenance—into one comprehensive monthly fee. This model provides a predictable and manageable cost structure for businesses.

However, it’s important to note that CMMC compliance is not a one-time expense but an ongoing commitment. The monthly fee charged by MSSPs can vary based on factors such as the number of endpoints, the level of service required, and the complexity of the compliance needs. Depending on the MSSP and the services included, pricing might range from as low as $150 per computer per month to as high as $500.

Investing in Compliance

The investment in an MSSP for CMMC compliance should be considered critical to your overall cybersecurity strategy. While the costs can be substantial, especially when compared to in-house management, having a dedicated team of experts to navigate the complexities of CMMC certification is invaluable. They provide the technical expertise and the ongoing support needed to maintain compliance and address any emerging cybersecurity threats.

BL King Consulting: New England’s Leading CMMC Certification Company

BL King is New England’s top choice for CMMC certification. We offer expert guidance to navigate CMMC costs effectively and facilitate compliance. Trust us for comprehensive solutions that ease your path to certification and manage ongoing compliance with precision. Get started by reaching out today.