Understanding cybersecurity frameworks can be confusing due to the multitude of frameworks mandated by various entities to accomplish specific goals. Most modern compliance frameworks focus on protecting an organization’s data—both the data it uses and creates—to support its business operations. The loss of data accessibility, confidentiality, or integrity can lead to severe consequences, including business closures. Compliance frameworks are designed to mitigate the most common risks identified for specific sectors or business types, and because of the variety of frameworks, there is significant overlap between them.

For instance, every framework typically requires measures such as authentication, endpoint security, and firewalls. Despite these overlapping technologies, each framework also has unique requirements that must be strictly followed. Understanding these differences is crucial when implementing one or more frameworks. Atlantic Digital can help you navigate these requirements, assess your current compliance status, plan your implementation, and facilitate your CMMC implementation. Below is an overview of common cybersecurity frameworks and how they compare to a CMMC implementation.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework is a comprehensive set of standards designed to enhance the cybersecurity posture of companies within the Defense Industrial Base. It draws from various global cybersecurity standards, including the UK Cyber Essentials and Australia’s Cyber Security Centre Essential Eight Maturity Model, incorporating long-standing best practices into its structure. When compared to other frameworks like the NIST Special Publications 800 Series, CMMC shares many similarities, especially with NIST SP 800-53 and SP 800-171, which are tailored for US government and federal contractors respectively. However, CMMC distinguishes itself by mandating specific levels of security based on the sensitivity of the data handled, rather than basing controls on assessed risk as NIST does. 

ISO/IEC 27000 Family

Another notable framework is the ISO/IEC 27000 family, which is internationally recognized and includes standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 for developing information security management systems. While ISO/IEC 27000 focuses on comprehensive security management, CMMC provides a tiered approach with three levels of requirements that scale with the type of data being protected, offering a more granular control structure. 

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is another framework often compared with CMMC. While PCI DSS requires a fundamental level of security, CMMC’s tiered system is far more comprehensive, potentially leading to a more robust security posture when followed correctly. 

Implementation

The cost and difficulty of adopting various cybersecurity frameworks can vary significantly. For instance, achieving full compliance with NIST SP 800-53 is a considerable undertaking for small to medium-sized businesses. In contrast, compliance with NIST SP 800-171, CMMC and ISO/IEC 27001 is generally easier and less expensive to implement and maintain. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) functions as a hybrid model that integrates elements from these and other frameworks, specifically tailored to the defense sector’s needs. Its structured levels enable organizations to incrementally enhance their cybersecurity measures, making it a dynamic and scalable option suitable for companies of all sizes and capabilities. For detailed comparisons and further insights into how CMMC stacks up against other compliance frameworks, resources like Totem’s analysis, Infosec’s mapping, Security Boulevard’s in-depth examination, and Mass News’s discussions on CMMC versus other regulated standards provide valuable information. These resources are excellent starting points for professionals seeking to understand the nuances and practical implications of implementing CMMC in comparison to other cybersecurity compliance frameworks. 

Conclusion

Navigating cybersecurity frameworks can be challenging due to numerous mandates aimed at specific goals. These frameworks are crucial for protecting an organization’s data and preventing severe consequences such as business closures. While many frameworks share common requirements, each also has unique mandates that must be followed. Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective implementation.

Atlantic Digital offers expertise in navigating these complex requirements, assessing compliance statuses, planning implementations, and facilitating CMMC integrations. The CMMC framework is tailored for the Defense Industrial Base, integrating global cybersecurity standards and best practices, and mandating specific security levels based on data sensitivity. This makes it distinct from other frameworks like NIST SP 800-53 and SP 800-171, which focus on risk-based controls. 

Ultimately, understanding and implementing the right cybersecurity framework is crucial for securing operations and sustaining growth in a digital world. Atlantic Digital’s expertise ensures businesses can navigate these complexities, secure their data, and align technology with strategic goals.