Not Sure if CMMC Applies to You?
If you handle defense-related drawings, specs, schedules, or contract data—then it likely does.
Take the QuizGet Assessment-Ready for CMMC
CMMC enforcement is here. Defense contracts that involve CUI will require CMMC Level 2 (110 controls aligned to NIST 800-171) with assessments that demand evidence, not intent.
Exostar’s CMMC solution delivers a clear path to Level 2 compliance, combining security and expert guidance so you can remain eligible for defense-related work without delays or rework.
Connect with sales to get assessment-ready for CMMC.
Everything You Need to Meet the 110 Controls for CMMC
A fully managed, assessment-ready solution that delivers CMMC Level 2 certification as an outcome, aligned to all 110 NIST 800-171 controls, designed to protect CUI and preserve defense contract eligibility.
Faster Time to Certification
Avoid lengthy IT overhauls or custom builds. Exostar delivers a purpose-built CMMC Level 2 environment that shortens time to evidence, documentation, and assessment readiness.
Lowest Total Cost of Ownership
Achieve Level 2 compliance at 5–10x lower total cost than MSP-heavy or DIY approaches by eliminating tool sprawl, rework, and failed assessments.
Simple, Scalable Packages
Choose a tier aligned to your scope, maturity, and risk profile, then scale as your compliance needs to evolve.
Expert Guidance
Assessment-ready support to help you prepare for CMMC and sustain compliance over time.
“Hit the easy button and go with Exostar—they’ve figured it out. It’s cost-effective, user-friendly, and it works. We now have full compliance and a strategic advantage in a highly competitive space.”
— Chuck Welch, Director of IT, DDC
How Exostar Compares to Other Approaches
| DIY / Build It Yourself | Consultants Only | Exostar | |
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| Purpose-built, managed environment |
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| Endpoints kept out of scope to reduce assessment complexity |
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| FedRAMP-equivalent security |
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| Automated documentation & policy generation |
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| Assessment Support |
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| Fastest path to certification |
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From Compliance Burden to Competitive Edge in Just 90 Days
Diné Development Corporation transformed its CMMC compliance journey with Exostar’s CMMC Ready Suite, achieving a perfect SPRS score, seamless user adoption, and secure external collaboration, all within three months. The result: assessment-ready confidence and a clear path to winning more defense contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CMMC certification and why does it matter for your contracts?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is the Department of Defense’s (DoD) program for ensuring that defense contractors protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI). Without CMMC certification, organizations will be ineligible to win or participate in many DoD contracts. Certification proves that you meet the required cybersecurity standards to handle sensitive information.
What are the 3 maturity levels of CMMC 2.0?
- Level 1: 17 basic controls for protecting Federal Contract Information (FCI). Self-assessment allowed.
- Level 2: All 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Most companies will need a third-party audit.
- Level 3: Advanced controls from NIST SP 800-172 to protect against sophisticated threats. Audits are performed by the DoD (DCMA DIBCAC).
How do you get CMMC certified?
Certification is obtained through self-assessments (for some contracts) or third-party assessments by a CMMC Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO), depending on the required level of CMMC compliance.
When will CMMC be required?
With the final rules nearly complete, CMMC requirements are expected to start showing up in DoD contracts by Q4 2025. That means contractors must start preparing now to avoid delays when opportunities go live.
Why is self-assessment no longer enough?
For nearly a decade, defense contractors have been required to follow NIST 800-171 and DFARS 7012, but too many companies self-assessed incorrectly or failed to close security gaps. This left DoD data exposed, creating financial losses and national security risks. CMMC fixes this problem by requiring verified compliance through audits.That’s why CMMC raises the bar: instead of checking your own homework, most organizations will now need verified audits to prove compliance.
How is CMMC different from DFARS 7012?
DFARS 7012 let contractors self-assess and self-report their compliance with NIST SP 800-171. CMMC requires verified NIST 800-171 compliance through third-party assessments. CMMC changes the game by requiring most organizations to pass an audit conducted by an approved third-party assessor (C3PAO) to prove compliance.
How long will it really take to get ready?
On your own, CMMC preparation can stretch 6–18 months. Even organizations with mature security programs often need at least six months to identify gaps, remediate issues, and generate the required documentation, and that’s before factoring in audit scheduling delays. But with the right tools and expert support, we’ve seen companies achieve assessment-ready status in under 90 days.
What role do acronyms like SPRS, SSP, and POA&M play in CMMC?
- SPRS is where you submit your compliance score.
- SSP is the System Security Plan auditors will review.
- POA&M is your roadmap for closing security gaps.
Exostar. Together We Thrive.
Exostar helps you comply fast and collaborate at scale. Our trusted network empowers 200,000+ organizations across aerospace and defense to win more contracts and build a secure, connected future. Together, we thrive.