cybersecurity maturity model certification (CMMC) (noun) [Word Notes]

Understanding the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a critical accreditation standard established to protect controlled unclassified information for the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). By October 2025, all contractors bidding for DOD contracts will need to comply with CMMC, which shifts away from self-attestation towards a more rigorous third-party auditing process. This model introduces five maturity levels, whereby companies that implement more cybersecurity controls will achieve higher maturity levels, enhancing their eligibility for contracts. The aim is to create a fair competitive environment for all companies bidding on DOD contracts, as noted by Katie Arrington, the DOD’s Chief Information Security Officer for acquisition, emphasizing the need for a standardized evaluation process over self-reported compliance measures.