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CMMC and Cloud Security: Integration Best Practices

by Bob Ertl updated March 30, 2024 CMMC Compliance

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As cyberattacks proliferate and security breaches become more commonplace, organizations are continually seeking ways to better protect their data. One increasingly popular option is to utilize cloud–based solutions, which offer numerous advantages over traditional on–premises systems.

Cloud–based solutions are not only cost-effective and efficient but also offer unrivaled scalability. Since they take away the burden of maintaining physical infrastructure from the organization, they can significantly reduce maintenance costs. Their ability to scale up or down in response to changing business needs also ensures maximum efficiency. However, perhaps the most compelling benefit they offer is robust security features. These solutions are fortified with cutting-edge security measures to protect against a wide range of cyber threats, thus ensuring that your data remains safe and secure.

The CMMC certification process is arduous but our CMMC 2.0 compliance roadmap can help.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC): An Overview

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a unified security standard that was developed by the Department of Defense (DoD) to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). It applies to all 300,000+ companies in the defense industrial base (DIB) sector that do business with the DoD, ranging from multinational corporations to small businesses.

CMMC is designed to ensure that these companies have the necessary controls in place to protect sensitive data, a critical element of our national security. It builds upon existing regulation (DFARS 252.204-7012), to add a verification component to cybersecurity compliance. As such, its implementation is not just important—it’s critical. Without it, organizations risk not only severe repercussions but also the exposure of sensitive data with potentially grave national security implications.

CMMC is a unified standard for the implementation of cybersecurity across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). The model measures the maturity of a company’ cybersecurity practices and processes. The framework aims not only to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), but also to establish a mark of distinction for cybersecurity in the federal contracting sphere. CMMC compliance plays a critical role in securing defense contracts and sustaining partnerships with the Department of Defense (DoD).

Compliance with CMMC ensures that an organization has the necessary cybersecurity controls and processes in place to protect sensitive data, thus boosting trust and reliability in the eyes of the DoD. The consequence of a data leak or compromise of sensitive CUI and FCI is not limited to operational disruptions. It can lead to substantial legal issues, financial losses, and reputational damage. The loss of trust resulting from a data breach can jeopardize future contracts and partnerships with the DoD, severely impacting an organization’ business prospects.

With growing cybersecurity threats, the importance of CMMC compliance cannot be overstated. It is not just about securing data but also about safeguarding the future of the organization in the defense sector. Thus, integrating CMMC’s best practices within the organization’s cybersecurity framework is key to achieving maximum security and operational efficiency.

Cloud–Based Secure File Sharing Solutions for CMMC Compliance: Distinct Advantages

Like most organizations, defense contractors need to strike a balance between operational efficiency and robust data security. Infrastructure, cost, scalability, and security are all key factors to consider when choosing a data management system. Cloud–based secure file sharing solutions offer numerous advantages over traditional on-premises systems in all these respects. Let’s take a closer look at some of these advantages:

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Certainly, one of the primary advantages of adopting cloud–based solutions is the noteworthy decrease in expenses related to system maintenance. Traditional on–s premises systems demand a significant initial financial outlay, with costs including not just the hardware and software, but also the hiring of professional IT staff to handle system maintenance and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. This expenditure is a capital expense, often a considerable one, which can strain the budgets of many organizations.

In contrast, the maintenance of cloud–based solutions is handled entirely by the service provider, eliminating the need for businesses to make these kind of substantial investments. This shift from a capital expenditure model to an operational expenditure model allows organizations to have more flexible and manageable budgets. They only have to worry about paying for the service provider’s fee, which handles all issues regarding system updates, maintenance and repairs. As a result, cloud–based solutions generally lead to a significant reduction in overall maintenance costs, making them a more economical choice for many businesses.

Greater Efficiency

Cloud–based solutions are meticulously designed with an emphasis on optimal efficiency. They provide an impeccable solution with seamless integration capabilities with a broad range of platforms. This integration allows for efficient, streamlined access to data and the ability to share this information across platforms, making work processes more smooth and streamlined. Moreover, one of the significant benefits of such systems is the responsibility of updates and system improvements.

Unlike traditional systems where the burden of maintaining and updating the system falls on the organization, with cloud–based solutions, these tasks are handled by the provider. They ensure that the system remains current and up–to–date with the latest features and security protocols. These updates are carried out in a manner that minimizes disruption to the organization’s operations. They may be done during periods of low activity or in increments that do not significantly impact the system’s availability. This means that businesses can continue with their essential activities without having to worry about system downtimes or disruptions, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.

Scalability and Flexibility

Cloud–based solutions bring to the table an unmatched level of scalability and flexibility, effectively catering to the evolving needs of an organization. These digital solutions can nimbly adapt to various organizational changes; such as a surge in data volume that needs to be processed and stored, or a significant shift in the operational requirements and work process of the company. This dynamic adaptability that cloud–based solutions offer makes them exceptionally versatile.

Conversely, on-premises solutions present certain limitations. Scaling up or down with an on-premises solution would necessitate a substantial amount of resources both in financial terms and in manpower. It’s not just about buying new servers or getting rid of old ones, but also about the associated costs of installation, maintenance, and the extended time required for these changes to take effect. Essentially, on-premises solutions require extensive planning for any scaling, making them less flexible for rapidly growing or changing businesses. Therefore, cloud–based solutions with their inherent adaptability stand as a more efficient option.

Robust Security

Finally, and arguably of utmost importance, cloud–based systems come with top-tier security features, ensuring the utmost safety and protection for your data. These features include advanced encryption, which shields data from unauthorized access, multi–factor authentication that goes a step further than mere password protection by verifying a user’s identity using multiple evidence pieces, and highly sophisticated intrusion detection systems which monitor networks for malicious activities or policy violations.

Moreover, these cloud–based solutions are regularly checked through security audits. These audits are thorough inspections that ensure the robustness of the security infrastructure, identifying any potential weaknesses and taking corrective measures. They are also routinely updated to counter the latest cyber threats and security vulnerabilities, providing a dynamic and up-to-date line of defense.

All these security aspects are particularly critical for organizations that need to comply with CMMC. Through these robust security features and practices, cloud–based solutions provide assurance that sensitive data is not only stored but also effectively guarded against breaches and cyber-attacks, satisfying all regulatory requirements. This level of data protection is crucial in today’s digital era, where cyber threats are ever-evolving and increasingly sophisticated.

Key Requirements for Selecting, Integrating, and Deploying a CMMC–compliant Cloud–Based Secure File Sharing Solution

A cloud–based secure file sharing or secure file transfer solution can provide multiple advantages, including lower maintenance costs, greater efficiency, scalability, and above all, top-tier security. Furthermore, compliance with CMMC is a necessity for organizations working with the DoD.

By carefully selecting a CMMC compliant solution, integrating it smoothly into existing systems, and ensuring staff are well-trained, organizations can both achieve compliance and substantially improve their data security posture. In the modern digital landscape, such measures are not only beneficial but essential to safeguarding critical data and maintaining national security.

Here are some recommendations for IT professionals looking to select, integrate, and deploy a cloud–based secure file sharing solution that is CMMC compliant:

1. Comprehensively Assess Your Requirements

Starting the journey in search for a cloud–based solution for your organization is no small feat. The first step in this process is gaining a comprehensive understanding of your organization’s distinct requirements. This implies being fully aware of what your organization needs from the solution, so it can function at its optimal level.

One vital factor to consider is the level of security required by your organization. This largely depends on the kind of sensitive information your organization handles. Companies dealing with delicate data, like financial or healthcare records, might need a higher level of security, so a cloud solution which prioritizes stringent security measures should be considered.

Next, it’s important to think about the nature and volume of data that will be stored and shared by the organization. If the nature of your data is complex or if you have an exceptionally large volume of data to deal with, a robust, scalable cloud solution becomes a must–have. A solution that allows seamless data migration, storage, and sharing can ensure smooth business operations.

Additionally, there may be a need for specific functionalities in your organization such as version control and real-time collaboration features. These features are particularly necessary in organizations where multiple team members need to work on a single project at the same time or where versions of a document need to be tracked and controlled. Therefore, a cloud solution that enables real–time collaboration, smooth version control, and other project-specific features could be a significant advantage.

Once you’ve assessed your requirements, it’ easier to navigate through the multitude of cloud solutions in the market and find the one that aligns best with your organization’s unique needs. Ultimately, it’s all about matching your exact requirements with the right technology, ensuring a good return on investment and an efficient running of your business operations.

2. Prioritize Security

When examining the numerous cloud– based services available in the market, make security the top of your priority list. Every organization is susceptible to a myriad of cyber threats, hence your selection should boast robust, comprehensive protection measures to guard your valuable data.

Investigate whether potential solutions incorporate advanced encryption technologies. Encryption is an essential protector against data breaches as it converts your information into coded text, rendering it unreadable to unauthorized users. A strong encryption method, like 256–bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES-256), offers an ideal level of security for safeguarding sensitive data in the cloud.

In addition to encryption, a potential solution should feature IDS. These systems serve as virtual guards, constantly monitoring network traffic for any suspicious or malicious activity. By identifying these early warning signs, an intrusion detection system can actively mitigate potential threats before they can cause significant damage.

Additionally, always look out for cloud services that offer a suite of other security features. This includes tools like secure socket layer (SSL) for secure transmission of data, multi–factor authentication for restricting access to your data, and continuous backup systems for preserving data integrity.

Also, the selected solution should have the capacity to counter a broad spectrum of threats. These could range from individual hackers attempting to gain unauthorized access, to large–scale Distributed Denial–of–Service (DDoS) attacks designed to cripple your cloud infrastructure.

Ultimately, when it comes to choosing a cloud–based service, a strong and comprehensive security framework should always be the key deciding factor. The ideal solution should combine cutting–edge encryption, reliable intrusion detection, and other critical security features to ensure robust protection against a wide array of cyber threats.

3. Insist Upon CMMC Compliance

Given the critical nature of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape, it is paramount that any cloud–based solution you take into consideration is fully compliant with the CMMC. This is not just a base requirement but a standard that must always be met to guarantee that your data is safeguarded.

CMMC compliance means that the cloud–based solution aligns with the necessary security standards that have been set by the Department of Defense (DoD). These standards protect controlled unclassified information (CUI) located on the Department’s contractors’ networks. By meeting these stringent security standards, the solution can ensure that it is resistant to a whole host of cyber threats.

Additionally, CMMC compliance isn’t just about meeting government-defined security measures. It’s also a clear indicator of the cloud service provider’s commitment to cyber security. When a provider is CMMC compliant, it communicates that the provider does not take the issue of security lightly. Indeed, it signifies that they are willing to undertake rigorous processes to obtain this certification and prioritize the security of their customers’s data. Thus, CMMC compliance illustrates a cloud service provider’s commitment to maintaining a robust and secure cyber environment for its users.

4. Consider Integration Capabilities

When contemplating the implementation of a new solution within your organization, it’s crucial to assess how well this solution can mesh with the existing systems and workflows employed in your company. This involves evaluating whether or not it is compatible with your organization’s current tools, software, and systems.

System compatibility is an important factor as it can significantly smoothen the transition process, minimizing the disruption to the daily operations of your business. In fact, system compatibility plays a vital role in determining how swiftly your team can adapt to the new software or technology. If the solution can seamlessly blend with your current systems, it will reduce the learning curve for your employees, enhancing their ability to continue performing their tasks effectively during the transition period.

Moreover, this could lead to an increase in productivity over time. If the solution integrates well, it means your employees can leverage its features without having to switch between different programs or processes. This would allow for more efficient workflows and, subsequently, better output. Therefore, before adopting any new solution, make sure to conduct a thorough analysis of its compatibility with your organization’s existing systems and workflows. Such proactive steps will lay the foundation for a smoother transition and promote a productive and efficient working environment.

5. Look for Scalability

When selecting a solution for your organization, it is critically important that this choice can accommodate your organization’s growth and evolution. This means it needs to be adaptable, capable of expansion and modification to meet fluctuating data volumes and alterations in operational requirements. It is not simply a matter of being flexible. It also must provide consistent performance, despite increases or changes in workload.

Additionally, the solution should guarantee security across all levels and under all circumstances, ensuring that the integrity and confidentiality of your organization’s data are never compromised, regardless of the volume of data handled or the complexity of operational demands.

Hence, the focus should be on choosing a solution that is both scalable and robust enough to meet changing business environments, while maintaining an uncompromised degree of performance and security. This future–proofs your organization’s processes, and prevents the need for frequent transitions to new solutions, which can be costly and disruptive.

6. Evaluate Provider Reputation

Lastly, take into account the standing of the cloud provider in the industry. This means looking for a provider who has a well-established record in terms of offering secure, reliable, and efficient cloud–based solutions. The provider’s reputation is forged by its professional standing as perceived by customers, peers, and the industry at large. It is important to look for a provider who has gained respect and recognition for their services over the years. Check for any recognitions, awards, or certifications that they may have received as these can serve as credible proof of their expertise and commitment to quality service.

While looking at the provider’s track record, focus on their ability to deliver secure solutions. In this era of rampant cyber threats, data security cannot be compromised. The ideal provider should have highly secure data centers, robust data encryption methods, and strict data privacy policies. They should be able to prevent, detect, and respond to security incidents in a timely and effective manner.

In addition to security, the provider should be known for their reliability. This means that their services should be available without any interruptions or downtime. Look at their service level agreements (SLAs) to understand their promised uptime and how they handle service outages.

Efficiency is another critical factor to consider. The provider’s cloud solutions should be designed to improve operational efficiency in businesses. They should have easy–to–use interfaces, seamless integration capabilities, and fast response times.

The provider should also provide support and training to help users maximally utilize their services. By considering the reputation of the provider, you will be better able to assess whether they can meet your specific cloud needs and expectations. Always remember that choosing a reputable provider is key to reaping the full benefits of cloud technology.

7. Train Your Team

Investing in the proficiency of your team in utilizing a new solution is a critical factor in determining the ultimate success of its incorporation within your business operations.

When you ensure that every member of your team is not only familiar with the new solution but also effectively trained to harness its full potential, you pave the way for a smooth transition and efficient operation. This approach is far from a one-time investment. Keeping security awareness training an ongoing process is key to maintaining and improving the use of the new solution.

Regularly scheduled training sessions serve as a platform to reinforce the best practices and to rectify any missteps in using the solution. This recurring reinforcement helps in deepening the understanding of the solution, preventing misuse and underutilization.

It’s also beneficial when new features are added or when updates are introduced, thereby making sure that your team is always up–to–date and fully equipped to take advantage of the solution’s entire range of features effectively.

With regular training, your team will be able to use the new solution efficiently, drastically reducing the likelihood of errors, enhancing productivity, and ensuring a consistent, high-quality output. Therefore, for a successful implementation of a new solution, it’s essential to commit to an ongoing training process for your team.

Demonstrating Compliance in a CMMC Self Assessment or Third–party Assessor Audit

Demonstrating CMMC compliance, whether in a self-assessment or a CMMC compliance audit conducted by a third–party assessor organization (C3PAO), can be challenging but is essential to ensure data security and business continuity.

The first step towards demonstrating compliance is to integrate a secure cloud–based file sharing solution to your system. Besides versatility, such a system offers enhanced security features, making it an ideal choice for organizations dealing with sensitive information. However, it’s crucial to ensure this system is in line with CMMC guidelines. Reputable providers usually provide information on their compliance with various cybersecurity standards, which can be a good starting point in assessing compatibility with the CMMC standards.

The second step involves establishing and documenting the controls that pertain to your organization’s operations. This includes measures related to data access, data integrity, and data confidentiality. It’s also vital to document these controls in a System Security Plan (system security plan). This document serves as a blueprint for your organization’s cybersecurity measures and is an essential element in demonstrating CMMC compliance. Regular review and updates of the SSP ensure that your organization maintains a dynamic and proactive stance towards cybersecurity.

The third step involves an active demonstration of the controls’s effectiveness. This could be achieved through a combination of automated checks and manual audits. You should be able to provide evidence of control implementation and effectiveness, such as logs or reports. In CMMC self–assessments, this proof is self-reported. In a third–party assessor audit, you’ll; need to present this evidence to the assessor who will then verify it.

Ultimately, the aim should be to create a robust culture of cybersecurity that goes beyond mere compliance and genuinely safeguards sensitive information. Demonstrating compliance with CMMC is not just about passing an audit or self–assessment but is a means to build stronger security posture, ensuring your organization’s longevity, and reputation in increasingly data-driven and cybersecurity-conscious business environment.

Kiteworks Helps Defense Contractors Meet CMMC Requirements with a Private Content Network

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, achieving the right balance between operational efficiency and data security has become critical. Cloud–based secure file sharing solutions offer significant benefits in terms of cost, scalability, efficiency, and security. By following the recommendations outlined above, organizations can effectively implement a CMMC compliant solution and enhance their data security posture. By doing so, not only will they be safeguarding their sensitive data, but they will also be making a significant contribution to national security. In the modern digital landscape, these measures are essential and must not be overlooked.

The Kiteworks Private Content Network, a FIPS 140-2 Level validated secure file sharing and file transfer platform, consolidates email, file sharing, web forms, SFTP and managed file transfer, so organizations control, protect, and track every file as it enters and exits the organization.

Kiteworks supports nearly 90% of CMMC 2.0 Level 2 requirements out of the box. As a result, DoD contractors and subcontractors can accelerate their CMMC 2.0 Level 2 accreditation process by ensuring they have the right sensitive content communications platform in place.

With Kiteworks, DoD contractors and subcontractors unify their sensitive content communications into a dedicated Private Content Network, leveraging automated policy controls and tracking and cybersecurity protocols that align with CMMC 2.0 practices.

Kiteworks enables rapid CMMC 2.0 compliance with core capabilities and features including:

Certification with key U.S. government compliance standards and requirements, including SSAE-16/SOC 2, NIST SP 800-171, and NIST SP 800-172
FIPS 140-2 Level 1 validation
FedRAMP Authorized for Moderate Impact Level CUI
AES 256-bit encryption for data at rest, TLS 1.2 for data in transit, and sole encryption key ownership

Kiteworks deployment options include on-premises, hosted, private, hybrid, and FedRAMP virtual private cloud. With Kiteworks: control access to sensitive content; protect it when it’ shared externally using automated end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and security infrastructure integrations; see, track, and report all file activity, namely who sends what to whom, when, and how. Finally demonstrate compliance with regulations and standards like GDPR, HIPAA, CMMC, Cyber Essentials Plus, IRAP, and many more.

To learn more about Kiteworks, schedule a custom demo today.

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