Do You Need a C3PAO? (One-Minute Whitepaper)

Is your organization currently working with the Department of Defense (DoD)? Do you plan to in the near future? You’ll need to achieve Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Your contract will specify which Level of CMMC you need to reach, which has implications for which controls you install and how you assess—including whether you have to work with a third party.

In particular, organizations at Level 1 qualify for annual self-assessments. Some organizations at Level 2 can also self-assess, triennially, but most will need to work with a Certified Third Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) vetted and listed by the Cyber-AB. Level 2 requires significantly more cybersecurity controls to be installed (110, compared to 15 at Level 1), and organizations need to fully protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). That’s why the DoD requires working with a thoroughly vetted C3PAO to ensure security at this Level. However, C3PAO partners can provide advisory and quality assurance to organizations at any CMMC Level.

Our helpful guide — Do You Need a C3PAO? — breaks down everything you need to know about certified CMMC assessment partners and the benefits you can expect working with one.