Shifting from DFARS Compliance to CMMC Certification: A complete guide

A comprehensive guide to understanding DFARS requirements, protecting CUI, navigating NIST 800-171, and preparing your organization for compliance.

DFARS compliance guide for DoD contractors

Download the DFARS Compliance Guide

DFARS requirements can be complex, especially when NIST 800-171, CUI, cybersecurity controls, and CMMC all come into play. Download the guide for a practical breakdown of DFARS requirements, the cybersecurity areas contractors should address, and actionable steps for strengthening your compliance program

Topics Covered

Understanding DFARS

Learn what DFARS is, who it applies to, and why its cybersecurity requirements matter for organizations working with the Department of Defense.

CUI Protection

Understand the role of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and the importance of protecting sensitive government information.

NIST 800-171 Requirements

Explore the key NIST 800-171 security areas that support DFARS compliance, including access control, authentication, incident response, and security awareness.

DFARS & CMMC

Learn how DFARS requirements connect with CMMC and the broader cybersecurity expectations facing defense contractors.

Compliance Preparation

Explore practical steps including security and risk assessments, IT and physical safeguards, access controls, employee training, and incident response planning.

Gap Analysis

Learn how evaluating your current cybersecurity environment and identifying gaps can help create a clearer path toward DFARS compliance.

Overview

Make DFARS Requirements Easier to Navigate

Organizations working with the Department of Defense need to understand how DFARS requirements affect the way Controlled Unclassified Information is handled and protected. That means looking beyond individual security tools and considering access controls, authentication, incident response, employee training, vulnerability management, and other areas across the organization.

This guide breaks down DFARS and its relationship to NIST 800-171, explains key cybersecurity requirements, and provides practical tips and checklists to help identify areas that may need attention.
This guide walks through those considerations to help DoD contractors and subcontractors better understand the path toward CMMC compliance and audit preparation.

What You’ll Learn

Get a clearer understanding of DFARS, CUI, and NIST 800-171, including the cybersecurity areas contractors need to consider and how DFARS connects with CMMC.

You’ll also get practical guidance on security and risk assessments, IT and physical safeguards, access controls, cybersecurity awareness training, incident response planning, and gap analysis.

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