Understanding the Difference Between DFARS and CMMC

If you're a small or mid-sized manufacturing company working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), you’ve probably heard of *DFARS* and *CMMC*. These terms often come up together, but they serve different purposes. Understanding how they relate—and how they affect your business—is essential for staying compliant and securing your contracts.

What is DFARS?

DFARS stands for Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement. It's a set of rules that supplement the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) — the primary regulation for government procurement. DFARS contains specific requirements for contractors doing business with the DoD, especially around protecting sensitive information. One key element of DFARS is Clause 252.204-7012, which mandates that Defense contractors implement certain cybersecurity measures to safeguard Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This means that if your company handles sensitive government data, you must meet these cybersecurity standards—or face penalties, including potential contract suspension or termination.

**In simple terms:**

- DFARS is a set of rules you must follow if you’re working with the DoD.

- It primarily focuses on protecting sensitive information through cybersecurity practices.

- It’s a regulation you’re required to comply with once you have DoD contracts.

What is CMMC?

CMMC stands for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. It’s a newer framework introduced by the DoD to verify that contractors have the necessary cybersecurity practices in place. Unlike DFARS, which specifies *what* cybersecurity measures are required, CMMC adds an independent certification process to confirm compliance.

**CMMC Levels:**

- The model consists of five levels, from basic cybersecurity practices (Level 1) to advanced, enterprise-wide security (Level 5).

- To qualify for certain DoD contracts, your company may need to attain a specific CMMC level.

**Why was CMMC created?**

There were concerns that existing cybersecurity requirements weren’t sufficient or consistently enforced. CMMC aims to raise the bar across the supply chain, ensuring all contractors are protecting government data effectively—and providing a verified record of compliance.

**In simple terms:**

- CMMC is a certification process to prove your company's cybersecurity maturity.

- It’s like a “security badge” that shows you meet DoD standards.

- It applies to all defense contractors, especially those handling high-security information.

How Do DFARS and CMMC Work Together?

Think of DFARS as the *rules of the game* — the cybersecurity standards you’re legally obligated to follow to do business with the DoD. CMMC, on the other hand, is the *player verification* process. It **certifies** that you actually meet those standards.

In practical terms:

- If you're a defense contractor, you must First comply with DFARS cybersecurity clauses.

- Then, you need to obtain a CMMC certification (at the appropriate level) to be eligible for certain contracts.

**A simple example:**

Suppose your company handles CUI and wants to bid on a new defense contract.

- First, ensure your cybersecurity practices are aligned with the required DFARS standards (such as NIST SP 800-171 controls).

- Then, undergo a CMMC assessment from an approved third-party organization (called a C3PAO).

- Once certified, you can confidently pursue the contract that demands that certification.

In Summary

| Aspect | DFARS | CMMC |

|----------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------|

| Purpose | Regulations and rules for cybersecurity in defense contracts | Certification framework to verify cybersecurity maturity |

| Focus | Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) | Demonstrating compliance through a graded certification system |

| Requirement | Mandatory for defense contractors handling sensitive info | Certification may be required for certain contracts |

| Enforcement | Penalties for non-compliance, including loss of contracts | Certification performed by approved assessors; required for bidding |

Final Advice for Small to Mid-Sized Manufacturers

- **Get familiar with DFARS requirements**: Know what cybersecurity controls are necessary.

- **Prepare for CMMC assessment**: Whether it’s Level 1 or Level 3, start aligning your practices early.

- **Work with trusted cybersecurity professionals**: They can help you meet standards without unnecessary disruption.

- **Keep updated on DoD compliance requirements**: Regulations evolve, so staying proactive is key.

For more detailed guidance, visit the official CMMC website or consult with cybersecurity experts experienced in defense contracting.

Understanding the difference between DFARS and CMMC helps ensure your manufacturing company is prepared for the future of defense work—and that you’re doing your part to keep government data safe.