Do You Actually Need CMMC? A Light-Hearted Guide for Confused Contractors
- Scott Crabb
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I really need CMMC?” while sipping your coffee and ignoring a blinking inbox, you’re in good company. Businesses of all sizes are suddenly hearing about the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and thinking:
“Is this something I actually need?”
“What level am I supposed to be?”
“Is this going to be expensive?”
“Why does the government love acronyms more than paperwork?”
Let’s simplify it — without the stress, jargon, or panic.
What Is CMMC (Without the Gobbledygook)?
Think of CMMC as the DoD’s way of making sure everyone in the supply chain locks their doors — digitally speaking.
If you handle FCI (federal contract information) or CUI (controlled unclassified info), the DoD wants to make sure you’re protecting it in a consistent, verifiable way.
Simple idea. Big acronym.
Do You Actually Need It? Here’s the Quick Test
You likely need CMMC if:
You currently hold or want to compete for Department of Defense contracts
You receive or store FCI
You work with or process CUI
If you said yes to any of these, you’re in the CMMC world.If you said no — congrats, you’re off the hook (for now).
CMMC Levels (Explained Like a Human)
🔹 Level 1 – Foundational
If you handle FCI, you’ll likely need Level 1.This includes 17 basic cybersecurity practices — things you’re probably already doing, like using MFA and dressing your passwords appropriately.
🔹 Level 2 – Advanced
If you touch CUI, this is your level.Level 2 aligns with NIST 800-171’s 110 practices, which sounds intimidating until broken down into manageable steps.
And yes — it is possible to get there without tearing your hair out.
Why Companies Hesitate
Companies don’t delay CMMC because it’s impossible. They delay because:
They don’t know where to start
They’re afraid of the unknown
They’ve heard horror stories
Compliance feels like a second job
Here’s the truth: Most organizations are closer than they think.
How to Get Started (Without Losing Your Sanity)
The smartest way to begin is with a short discovery session. From there, you can:
Identify whether CMMC applies
Determine the correct level
Assess your current cybersecurity posture
Prioritize only what matters
Prepare for a future assessment with confidence
No guesswork. No wasted spending.
Where I Come In
As a Certified CMMC Professional (CCP), I help companies:
Understand whether CMMC applies
Determine the correct level (L1 vs. L2)
Conduct readiness assessments
Build policies & documentation
Prepare for a C3PAO audit
Avoid overspending or chasing the wrong controls
Whether you’re just exploring or actively preparing, I meet you where you are.
Still Not Sure? Let’s Talk.
A quick conversation can save you months of confusion and ensure you’re on the right track — without the jargon or overwhelm.
Ready to figure out your path to CMMC?
Contact us today and let’s make security simple.
Info@runtimecyber.com or 623-777-9242
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