As 2026 approaches, the mix of tighter regulations and sharper customer expectations is pushing operational security to the forefront. The core principles of cybersecurity haven’t changed much, but the way we put them into practice absolutely has. This guide is meant for SaaS teams that want to strengthen their security in a practical, sustainable way, not just get through another audit.
The journey to CMMC Level 3 represents the highest level of cybersecurity maturity under the CMMC framework. Unlike Levels 1 and 2, which focus on FCI and CUI, respectively, Level 3 targets Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). That means more extensive security, defined in NIST Special Publication 800-172.
For organizations that support critical programs or handle high-value assets for the Department of Defense, achieving Level 3 is imperative. But what does it take to implement the enhanced controls from NIST SP 800-172, and how do they fit into the broader CMMC ecosystem? This article explores that challenge and provides a practical roadmap for organizations preparing to meet it.
Across CMMC certification and ongoing monitoring and assessment, the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) plays a pivotal role in verifying contractor compliance. Here, we will cover the relationship between DIBCAC and CMMC assessments, providing expert-level guidance for organizations seeking Level 2 or Level 3 certification.