Can You Use AI and CUI?
Updated: April 2026 | Reading time: 12 min | Category: Artificial Intelligence (AI) You’ve probably heard a lot about Artificial Intelligence (AI) lately. Your staff may already be using tools…
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CMMC Implementation Timeline and Phased Rollout
CMMC is not appearing in all contracts simultaneously. The DoD is implementing requirements through a phased rollout, gradually expanding which contracts require certification. Understanding the timeline helps you plan compliance…
Learn more32 CFR Part 170: The CMMC Program Rule Explained
The CMMC Program Rule—officially 32 CFR Part 170—is the regulatory foundation of CMMC. Published in the Federal Register and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, this rule transforms CMMC…
Learn moreCMMC 2.0 vs CMMC 1.0: What Changed and Why It Matters
If you have been following CMMC since its introduction, you may remember a more complex framework with five maturity levels and additional practices beyond NIST standards. That was CMMC 1.0.…
Learn moreAchieving Conditional CMMC Level 2 Certification with POA&M
Perfect compliance on assessment day is ideal, but not always achievable. CMMC recognizes this reality by allowing conditional Level 2 certification when you meet most—but not all—requirements. Conditional certification provides…
Learn moreCMMC Level 2 C3PAO Assessment: What to Expect
When your contract requires CMMC Level 2 certification with a third-party assessment, you will engage a C3PAO to evaluate your compliance. Understanding what happens during assessment helps you prepare effectively…
Learn moreUnderstanding the 110 NIST 800-171 Controls for CMMC Level 2
CMMC Level 2 requires implementing all 110 security controls from NIST Special Publication 800-171 Revision 2. These controls represent a comprehensive security program designed to protect Controlled Unclassified Information. Understanding…
Learn moreTop CMMC Implementation Mistakes Small Contractors Make
Small defense contractors face a difficult reality: CMMC requirements are the same whether you have 10 employees or 10,000. The 110 controls in NIST SP 800-171 were designed for larger…
Learn moreCMMC Documentation Mistakes That Derail Certification
Technical controls get most of the attention in CMMC preparation, but documentation problems cause more assessment failures than missing firewalls or inadequate encryption. Assessors verify compliance through documentation—if your paperwork…
Learn moreCommon CMMC Assessment Failures and How to Avoid Them
Failing a CMMC assessment is expensive, embarrassing, and potentially devastating to your business. Assessment fees are non-refundable, remediation delays contract opportunities, and word travels fast in the defense industrial base.…
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