The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a framework developed by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to strengthen the cybersecurity posture of companies within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). For new contractors, understanding this model—starting with CMMC Level 1—is the first step toward building trust and ensuring compliance.

What is CMMC Level 1?

CMMC Level 1 represents basic cyber hygiene. It is designed for organizations that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) but do not work with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Unlike higher levels, Level 1 does not require formal third-party certification. Instead, companies self-attest that they follow basic security practices to protect FCI and reduce risks from common cyber threats.

Key Facts About Level 1:

• Covers 17 foundational cybersecurity practices.
  
  

• Focuses on safeguarding FCI, not CUI.
  
  

• Relies on self-assessment and annual affirmation of compliance.
  
  

• Serves as the entry point into the CMMC framework.
  
  

Key Requirements of CMMC Level 1

Level 1 includes 17 practices derived from Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.204-21, grouped into six domains:

1. Access Control

Restrict system access to authorized users only.
Example: Assign unique user accounts—no shared logins.

2. Identification and Authentication

Verify user identity before granting access.
Example: Use strong passwords and enable multifactor authentication.

3. Media Protection

Securely manage and dispose of digital or physical media containing FCI.
Example: Encrypt USB drives and wipe devices before disposal.

4. Physical Protection

Prevent unauthorized physical access to information systems.
Example: Lock office areas, servers, and filing cabinets.

5. System and Communications Protection

Safeguard data during transmission.
Example: Use VPNs or encrypted email when sending sensitive information.

6. System and Information Integrity

Ensure systems are updated and monitored for threats.
Example: Keep antivirus software current and perform regular scans.

These basic measures form the foundation of a sound cybersecurity posture for any defense contractor.

Why CMMC Level 1 Matters

For new DoD contractors, Level 1 is both a requirement and an opportunity:

1. Contract Eligibility:
   It’s the minimum threshold for many DoD contracts. Without it, companies can’t bid or participate.
   
   

2. Cyber Awareness:
   It introduces organizations to cybersecurity best practices, helping them understand risks and responsibilities.
   
   

3. Stepping Stone to Higher Levels:
   Level 1 prepares organizations for CMMC Level 2, where requirements are more detailed and verified through formal assessments.
   
   

Steps to Achieve CMMC Level 1

1. Conduct a Self-Assessment:
   Review your current cybersecurity controls against the 17 Level 1 requirements.
   
   

2. Address Gaps:
   Implement missing practices—such as access controls, password policies, and data protection.
   
   

3. Document Compliance:
   Maintain simple records that show you’ve implemented and reviewed each requirement.
   
   

4. Submit Your Self-Attestation:
   Register in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) to confirm your organization meets Level 1 standards.
   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Treating Level 1 as Optional: Every DIB company should complete Level 1 immediately.
  
  

• Poor Documentation: Even simple cybersecurity controls should be clearly recorded.
  
  

• Neglecting Employee Awareness: Cybersecurity is only effective when everyone follows best practices consistently.
  
  

Conclusion

Achieving CMMC Level 1 is a straightforward but essential step for any defense contractor. It demonstrates that your organization understands and applies the fundamentals of cybersecurity—something every DIB company should complete without delay.

While CMMC Level 1 focuses on basic protection and self-attestation, the next milestone—CMMC Level 2—requires rigorous compliance and third-party validation to safeguard Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

That’s where Techellence comes in. We are ready to support organizations aiming to advance to CMMC Level 2, helping you meet the high standards of cybersecurity required to protect sensitive government data and strengthen your position in the defense ecosystem.