The Department of Defense (DoD) has new cybersecurity regulations as part of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to prevent data leaks. These guidelines are designated and verified through NIST 800-171 and CMMC, respectively. From now on, suppliers and Defense Industrial Base (DIB) members must comply with DFARS standards. If they do not, they can't maintain current agreements or win new business opportunities with the DoD. To ensure your company is ready for the future, learn more about how you can become compliant. 

What Is NIST 800-171? 

NIST 800-171 is a cybersecurity requirements guide for affiliated DIB companies to follow. These directives are made to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) confidentiality. They are forms of data either created or possessed by government agencies or procured on their behalf. FCI and CUI are often relevant to the United States' interests but may not be necessarily regulated by the federal government. However, contractors must follow the NIST 800-171 guidelines when disseminating, safeguarding, or transmitting the data. Various other state and federal entities may also fall under the DFARS umbrella, depending on the nuances of FCI and CUI levels. 

The NIST 800-171 rules also have exceptions and options for alternative approaches. Similarly, some regulations may not apply to specific manufacturers or contractors. The density of the rules can make determining your level of compliance difficult, especially when establishing the sensitivity tiers of FCI and CUI. Depending on your access, your company may have a higher security qualification standard. These factors may take extensive time to evaluate before you become compliant. 

Contact a third-party cybersecurity company for an evaluation. They'll reduce the downtime and maximize your budget by identifying areas of change and performing assessment tests before you apply for certification. Their technicians have the resources and the NIST 800-171 fluency needed to bring you into full compliance. 

What Is CMMC? 

NIST 800-171 is the safety standard. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is the verification method of that standard.

Eventually, all DIB contractors will need CMMC certification. These companies include all suppliers, commercial item contractors, small businesses, and foreign suppliers. 

Once a contractor complies with NIST 800-171, they'll become certified. After certification, they're allowed to continue or pursue arrangements with the DoD. However, the DoD views cybersecurity as an evolving issue. Contractors need to consistently show cyber preparedness and resiliency to secure and maintain contracts. 

The continued growth of suppliers and DIB contractors depends on DFARS compliance. Superior Managed IT helps your company upgrade, maintain, and evolve its cybersecurity procedures as technology evolves. Their professionals use the CMMC Readiness Assessment to ensure your adherence to regulations. Superior Managed IT's advisory department will also create a customized, scalable data protection plan to fit your changing needs over time. You'll have a winning edge against competitors and safeguard your network against loss. For more information on their managed services, visit their website. To speak directly to their staff members, call their Minneapolis, MN, office at (612) 999-6200.