The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a big deal for businesses operating in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) sector. If your Managed Service Provider (MSP) isn’t CMMC Level 2 certified, it could put your business’s compliance, security, and ability to work on certain government contracts at risk.

But don’t panic—there are steps you can take to evaluate the situation and ensure your business stays compliant and secure.

Understanding CMMC Level 2

First, a quick overview. CMMC Level 2 compliance is crucial for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). It requires businesses, including their MSPs, to adhere to a rigorous set of cybersecurity standards based on NIST SP 800-171.

If your MSP isn’t CMMC Level 2 certified, they might not have the required processes and controls in place to protect your sensitive data effectively or help you meet the compliance standards required for certain Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.

Why Your MSP Matters

Your MSP is a critical partner responsible for managing your IT infrastructure, including cybersecurity. Their ability—or inability—to align with CMMC standards directly impacts your ability to meet compliance requirements. An MSP that isn’t certified may leave gaps in your cybersecurity framework, which can compromise your compliance and even disqualify you from bidding on DoD contracts.

What to Do If Your MSP Isn’t Certified

If your MSP isn’t CMMC Level 2 certified, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next:

1. Assess Your MSP’s Capabilities

Ask your MSP specific questions about their familiarity with CMMC requirements and whether they’re actively working toward certification. If they claim to meet the standards without formal certification, request documentation and proof of their compliance capabilities.

2. Evaluate Your Current Risks

Understand what risks your business faces by working with an MSP that isn’t certified. Conduct a gap analysis to identify where their cybersecurity measures fall short of CMMC Level 2 requirements.

3. Consider a Temporary Solution

If your MSP is in the process of becoming certified, inquire about their timeline and interim steps they’re taking to align with CMMC requirements. A temporary solution might suffice while they work toward certification—but be cautious.

4. Bring in a Third-Party Auditor

To ensure your business remains compliant, consider hiring a third-party auditor who can assess your systems and processes against CMMC Level 2 requirements. They can identify any vulnerabilities and recommend steps to mitigate risks.

5. Switch to a Certified MSP

If your current MSP isn’t certified and shows no indication of working toward compliance, it’s time to consider switching to an MSP that is. Look for a provider with verified CMMC Level 2 certification and experience in supporting businesses in the DIB sector.

6. Educate Your Team

Ensure your internal team understands the importance of CMMC compliance and what’s at risk. Investing in employee training can help improve your organization’s security posture.

7. Plan for the Future

CMMC requirements are continually evolving. Partner with an MSP who is proactive, flexible, and committed to staying ahead of compliance standards. This will save you from scrambling to meet future requirements.

Partner with the Right MSP

Choosing an MSP with CMMC Level 2 certification isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your business and maintaining your ability to work on valuable contracts.

If you’re facing challenges with a non-certified MSP, don’t delay addressing the issue. The risks of staying with a provider that doesn’t meet the necessary standards are too high to ignore.