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== NOTICES ==
 
The contents of this document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or departmental policies.
 
 
 
 
 
Version – 2.13 | September 2024
 
DoD-CIO-00002 (ZRIN 0790-ZA18)
 
'''CMMC Assessment Guide '''
 
'''Level 1 '''
 
24-T-2764
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 '''|''' Version 2.13 '''
 
ii
 
NOTICES  
 
The contents of this document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to  
 
bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public  
 
regarding existing requirements under the law or departmental policies.  


DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.


== Introduction ==
This document provides guidance in the preparation for and execution of a Level 1 self-assessment under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program as set forth in section 170.15 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Guidance for conducting a Level 2 self-assessment or certification assessment can be found in ''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 2''. Guidance for conducting a Level 3 certification assessment can be found in ''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 3''. More details on the CMMC Model can be found in ''CMMC Model Overview''.


Level 1 focuses on the protection of Federal Contract Information (FCI), which is defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 and 48 CFR § 4.1901:


: ''Federal contract information means information, not intended for public release, that is provided by or generated for the Government under a contract to develop or deliver a product or service to the Government, but not including information provided by the Government to the public (such as on public websites) or simple transactional information, such as necessary to process payments.''


Level 1 is comprised of the 15 basic safeguarding requirements specified in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.204-21.


=== Purpose and Audience ===
This guide is intended for Organizations Seeking Assessment (OSAs), cybersecurity professionals, and individuals and companies that support CMMC efforts. This document can be used as part of preparation for and conducting a Level 1 self-assessment.


=== Document Organization ===
This document is organized into the following sections:
* '''Assessment and Compliance:''' provides an overview of the Level 1 self-assessment process set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15, describes ways of documenting compliance, and provides guidance regarding OSA size and the self-assessment scope requirements set forth in 32 CFR § 170.19.
* '''CMMC-Custom Terms:''' incorporates definitions from 32 CFR § 170.4 and definitions included by reference from 32 CFR § 170.2, and provides clarification of the intent and scope of custom terms as used in the context of CMMC.
* '''Assessment Criteria and Methodology:''' provides guidance on criteria and methodology (i.e., ''interview'', ''examine'', and ''test'') that may be employed during a Level 1 self-assessment, as well as on assessment findings.
* '''Requirement Descriptions:''' provides guidance specific to each Level 1 security requirement.


== Assessment and Compliance ==
Level 1 self-assessment requirements are set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15. The OSA will assess its own contractor information system(s) to determine if it meet all the basic safeguarding requirements for FCI specified in FAR Clause 52.204-21. OSAs should use the self-assessment methods as described in 32 CFR § 170.15.


Level 1 requirements may apply to an entire enterprise infrastructure or to a particular enclave(s), depending upon where the FCI will be processed, stored, or transmitted.
 
 
'''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 '''|''' Version 2.13 '''
 
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''' '''
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#5|'''Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 1''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#6|'''Assessment and Compliance .............................................................................................................. 2''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#6|Assessment Scope................................................................................................................................................. 2 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#7|'''CMMC-Custom Terms ............................................................................................................................ 3''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#9|'''Assessment Criteria and Methodology ........................................................................................... 5''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#10|Criteria ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6 <br />
Methodology ........................................................................................................................................................... 6 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#12|Assessment Findings ........................................................................................................................................... 8 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#14|'''Requirement Descriptions ............................................................................................................... 10''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#14|Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................... 10 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#16|'''Access Control (AC) ............................................................................................................................ 12''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#16|AC.L1-b.1.i – Authorized Access Control [FCI Data] ....................................................................................... 12 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#19|AC.L1-b.1.ii – Transaction &amp; Function Control [FCI Data] ........................................................................... 15 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#21|AC.L1-b.1.iii – External Connections [FCI Data] ............................................................................................... 17 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#24|AC.L1-b.1.iv – Control Public Information [FCI Data] .................................................................................... 20 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#26|'''Identification and Authentication (IA) ........................................................................................ 22''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#26|IA.L1-b.1.v – Identification [FCI Data] .................................................................................................................. 22 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#28|IA.L1-b.1.vi – Authentication [FCI Data] ............................................................................................................. 24 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#31|'''Media Protection (MP) ...................................................................................................................... 27''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#31|MP.L1-b.1.vii – Media Disposal [FCI Data] ......................................................................................................... 27 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#33|'''Physical Protection (PE) ................................................................................................................... 29''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#33|PE.L1-b.1.viii – Limit Physical Access [FCI Data] ............................................................................................. 29 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#35|PE.L1-b.1.ix – Manage Visitors &amp; Physical Access [FCI Data] ..................................................................... 31 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#38|'''System and Communications Protection (SC) ........................................................................... 34''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#38|SC.L1-b.1.x – Boundary Protection [FCI Data] .................................................................................................. 34 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#41|SC.L1-b.1.xi – Public-Access System Separation [FCI Data] ........................................................................ 37 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#43|'''System and Information Integrity (SI) ......................................................................................... 39''' ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#43|SI.L1-b.1.xii – Flaw Remediation [FCI Data] ...................................................................................................... 39 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#46|SI.L1-b.1.xiii – Malicious Code ProTection [FCI Data] ................................................................................... 42 ]]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 '''|''' Version 2.13 '''
 
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''' '''
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#49|SI.L1-b.1.xiv – Update Malicious Code Protection [FCI Data] ..................................................................... 45 <br />
]][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#51|SI.L1-b.1.xv – System &amp; File Scanning [FCI Data] ............................................................................................ 47 ]]
 
[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#53|'''Appendix A – Acronyms and Abbreviations .............................................................................. 49''' <br />
]]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Introduction
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
1
 
 
Introduction <br />
This document provides guidance  in the preparation for and execution of  a  Level  1  self-
 
assessment under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program as set
 
forth in section 170.15  of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).  Guidance for
 
conducting a Level  2  self-assessment or certification  assessment can be found in ''CMMC ''
 
''Assessment Guide – Level 2''. Guidance for conducting a Level 3 certification assessment can
 
be found in ''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 3''. More details on the CMMC Model can be found
 
in ''CMMC Model Overview''. <br />
Level 1 focuses on the protection of Federal Contract Information (FCI), which is defined in
 
32 CFR § 170.4 and 48 CFR § 4.1901:
 
''Federal contract information means information, not intended for public ''
 
''release, that is provided by or generated for the Government under a contract to ''
 
''develop or deliver a product or service to the Government, but not including ''
 
''information provided by the Government to the public (such as on public ''
 
''websites) or simple transactional information, such as necessary to process ''
 
''payments. ''
 
Level 1 is comprised of the  15  basic safeguarding requirements specified in Federal
 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.204-21. <br />
Purpose and Audience  <br />
This guide is intended for Organizations Seeking Assessment (OSAs), cybersecurity
 
professionals, and individuals and companies that support CMMC efforts. This document can
 
be used as part of preparation for and conducting a Level 1 self-assessment. <br />
Document Organization <br />
This document is organized into the following sections: <br />
 
  '''Assessment and Compliance:''  '''''provides an overview of the Level 1 self-assessment
 
process set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15, describes ways of documenting compliance, and
 
provides guidance regarding OSA size and the self-assessment scope requirements set
 
forth in 32 CFR § 170.19.
 
 
  '''CMMC-Custom Terms: '''incorporates definitions from 32 CFR § 170.4 and definitions
 
included by reference from 32 CFR § 170.2, and provides clarification of the intent and
 
scope of custom terms as used in the context of CMMC.
 
 
  '''Assessment Criteria and  Methodology:'''  provides guidance on criteria and
 
methodology (i.e., ''interview'', ''examine'', and ''test'') that may be employed during a Level 1
 
self-assessment, as well as on assessment findings.
 
 
  '''Requirement  Descriptions:  '''provides  guidance  specific  to  each  Level  1  security
 
requirement.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment and Compliance
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
2
 
 
Assessment and Compliance <br />
Level 1 self-assessment requirements are set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15. The OSA will assess
 
its own contractor information system(s) to determine if it meet all the basic safeguarding
 
requirements for FCI specified in FAR Clause 52.204-21. OSAs should use the self-assessment
 
methods as described in 32 CFR § 170.15. <br />
Level  1  requirements  may apply to an entire enterprise infrastructure or to a particular  
 
enclave(s), depending upon where the FCI will be processed, stored, or transmitted. <br />
OSAs can choose to perform the annual self-assessment internally or engage a third party to
 
assist. Use of a third party to assist is still considered a self-assessment and does not result
 
in a certification.  The primary result of a self-assessment is the submission of Level  1
 
compliance results into the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) and a self-assessment
 
report, which contains the findings associated with the self- assessment.
 
Assessment Scope
 
Prior to conducting a  Level 1 self-assessment, the OSA must specify the CMMC Assessment
 
Scope as defined in 32 CFR § 170.19(a). The CMMC Assessment Scope identifies which assets
 
within the OSA’s environment will be assessed and the details of the self-assessment. In
 
accordance with §170.19, for a Level 1 self-assessment, the assets that process, store, or
 
transmit FCI are considered in-scope and should  be assessed against the  Level  1
 
requirements. See the ''CMMC Scoping Guide – Level 1 ''document for additional information.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMMC-Custom Terms
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
3
 
 
CMMC-Custom Terms <br />
The CMMC Program has custom terms that align with program requirements. Although some
 
terms may have other definitions in open forums, it is important to understand these terms
 
as they apply to the CMMC Program.  <br />
The custom terms associated with Level 1 are: <br />
 
  '''Assessment:''' As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 means the testing or evaluation of security
 
controls to determine the extent to which the controls are implemented correctly,
 
operating as intended, and producing the desired outcome with respect to meeting the
 
security requirements for an information system or organization, as defined in 32 CFR §
 
170.15 to 32 CFR § 170.18.
 
o  Level 1 self-assessment is the term for the activity performed by an OSA to
 
evaluate its own information system, when seeking a CMMC Status of Final Level
 
1 (Self).
 
 
  '''Assessment Objective:''' A set of determination statements that, taken together,
 
expresses the desired outcome for the assessment of a security requirement. Successful
 
implementation of the corresponding CMMC security requirement requires meeting all
 
applicable assessment objectives defined in NIST SP 800–171A or NIST SP 800-172A.
 
 
  '''Asset:''' An item of value to stakeholders. An asset may be tangible (e.g., a physical item
 
such as hardware, firmware, computing platform, network device, or other technology
 
component) or intangible (e.g., humans, data, information, software, capability, function,
 
service, trademark, copyright, patent, intellectual property, image, or reputation). The
 
value of an asset is determined by stakeholders in consideration of loss concerns across
 
the entire system life cycle. Such concerns include but are not limited to business or
 
mission concerns, as defined in NIST SP 800-160 Rev 1.
 
 
  '''CMMC Status:''' As defined in 32 CFR''' '''§ 170.4 is the result of meeting or exceeding the
 
minimum required score for the corresponding assessment. The CMMC Status of an OSA
 
information system is officially stored in SPRS and additionally presented on a Certificate
 
of CMMC Status, if the assessment was conducted by a C3PAO or DCMA DIBCAC.
 
o  Final Level 1 (Self) is defined in § 170.15(c)(1). To achieve a CMMC Status of Final
 
Level 1 (Self) the OSA must  conduct a Level 1 self-assessment scored in
 
accordance with the CMMC Scoring Methodology described in § 170.24. The Level
 
1 self-assessment must be performed in accordance with the Level  1 scope
 
requirements set forth in § 170.19(a) and (b). In instances where an objective
 
addresses CUI, the term FCI should be substituted for CUI.
 
 
  '''Component:  '''A discrete identifiable information technology ''asset''  that represents a
 
building block of a system and may include hardware, software, and firmware[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#7|1]].  A
 
''component'' is one type of ''asset''.''' '''
 
 
1
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2, p 59 under system component
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMMC-Custom Terms
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
4
 
 
 
  '''Enduring Exception:''' A special circumstance or system where remediation and full
 
compliance with CMMC security requirements is not feasible. Examples include systems
 
required to replicate the configuration of ‘fielded’ systems, medical devices, test
 
equipment, OT, and IoT. No operational plan of action is required but the circumstance
 
must be documented within a system security plan. Specialized Assets and GFE may be
 
Enduring Exceptions.
 
 
  '''Information System  (IS):  '''A discrete set of information resources organized for the
 
collection, processing, maintenance, use, sharing, dissemination, or disposition of
 
information [NIST 800-171 Rev. 2]. An ''IS'' is one type of ''asset''.''' '''
 
 
  '''Monitoring:  '''Continual checking, supervising, critically observing, or determining the
 
status in order to identify change from the performance level required or expected [NIST
 
SP 800-160 Vol 1].
 
 
  '''Operational plan of action: '''As used in security requirement CA.L2-3.12.2, means the
 
formal artifact which identifies temporary vulnerabilities and temporary deficiencies in
 
implementation of requirements and documents how and when they will be mitigated,
 
corrected, or eliminated.  The OSA defines the format (e.g., document, spreadsheet,
 
database) and specific content of its operational plan of action. An operational plan of
 
action is not the same as a POA&amp;M associated with an assessment.''' '''
 
 
  '''Organization-Defined: '''As determined by the OSA being assessed except as defined in
 
the case of Organization-Defined Parameter (ODP). This can be applied to a frequency or
 
rate at which something occurs within a given time period, or it could be associated with
 
describing the configuration of an OSA’s solution.
 
 
  '''Temporary deficiency:''' As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 means a condition where
 
remediation of a discovered deficiency is feasible and a known fix is available or is in
 
process. The deficiency must be documented in an operational plan of action. A
 
temporary deficiency is not based on an ‘in progress’ initial implementation of a CMMC
 
security requirement but arises after implementation. A temporary deficiency may
 
apply during the initial implementation of a security requirement if, during roll-out,
 
specific issues with a very limited subset of equipment is discovered that must be
 
separately addressed. There is no standard duration for which a temporary deficiency
 
may be active.  For example, FIPS-validated cryptography that requires a patch and the
 
patched version is no longer the validated version may be a temporary deficiency.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment Criteria and Methodology
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
5
 
 
Assessment Criteria and Methodology <br />
This  ''CMMC  Assessment Guide –  Level 1''  provides guidance regarding the  assessment
 
procedures required by 32 CFR § 170.15, which requires the Level 1 self-assessment to be
 
performed using the objectives defined in NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171A[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#9|2. ]]NIST SP
 
800-171A Section 2.1 says the following:
 
''An assessment procedure consists of an assessment objective and a set of ''
 
''potential assessment methods and assessment objects that can be used to ''
 
''conduct the assessment. Each assessment objective includes a determination ''
 
''statement related to the requirement that is the subject of the assessment. The ''
 
''determination statements are linked to the content of the requirement to ensure ''
 
''traceability of the assessment results to the requirements. The application of an ''
 
''assessment procedure to a requirement produces assessment findings. These ''
 
''findings reflect, or are subsequently used, to help determine if the requirement ''
 
''has been satisfied. <br />
Assessment objects identify the specific items being assessed and can include ''
 
''specifications, mechanisms, activities, and individuals. ''
 
 
  ''Specifications are the document-based artifacts (e.g., policies, ''
 
''procedures, security plans, security requirements, functional ''
 
''specifications, and architectural designs) associated with a system. ''
 
 
  ''Mechanisms are the specific hardware, software, or firmware safeguards ''
 
''employed within a system. ''
 
 
  ''Activities are the protection-related actions supporting a system that ''
 
''involve people (e.g., conducting system backup operations, exercising a ''
 
''contingency plan, and monitoring network traffic). ''
 
 
  ''Individuals, or groups of individuals, are people applying the ''
 
''specifications, mechanisms, or activities described above. ''
 
''The assessment methods define the nature and the extent of the  assessor’s''' '''''
 
''actions. The methods include ''examine'', ''interview'', and ''test''. ''
 
 
  ''The ''examine'' method is the process of reviewing, inspecting, observing, ''
 
''studying, or analyzing assessment objects (i.e., specifications, ''
 
''mechanisms, activities). The purpose of the ''examine''  method is to ''
 
''facilitate understanding, achieve clarification, or obtain evidence. ''
 
 
  ''The  ''interview''  method is the process of holding discussions with ''
 
''individuals or groups of individuals to facilitate understanding, achieve ''
 
''clarification, or obtain evidence. ''
 
 
2
 
NIST SP 800-171A, ''Assessing Security Requirements for Controlled Unclassified Information, ''June 2018 (italics
 
and bulleted list formatting altered)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment Criteria and Methodology
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
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  ''And finally, the ''test'' method is the process of exercising assessment objects ''
 
''(i.e., activities, mechanisms) under specified conditions to compare actual ''
 
''with expected behavior. ''
 
''In all three assessment methods, the results are used in making specific ''
 
''determinations called for in the determination statements and thereby ''
 
''achieving the objectives for the assessment procedure. ''
 
The guidance specified in NIST SP 800-171A focuses on Controlled Unclassified Information
 
(CUI). Since Level 1 focuses on safeguarding FCI, the applicable self-assessment objectives
 
for  Level  1  are  modified  to address  FCI  rather than  CUI  as set forth in 32  CFR  §
 
170.15(c)(1)(i). Where '''CUI''' is noted in a NIST SP 800-171A assessment objective, '''[FCI]''' has
 
been  substituted in the Level  1  objective  description.  Level 1 security requirement
 
descriptions align with FAR Clause 52.204-21.
 
Criteria
 
Assessment objectives are provided for each Level 1 requirement and are based on existing
 
criteria  in  NIST SP 800-171A  modified for FCI  rather than  CUI  as set forth in 32  CFR  §
 
170.15(c)(1)(i). The criteria are authoritative and provide the basis for the self-assessment
 
of a requirement.
 
Methodology
 
To verify and validate that an OSA is meeting CMMC requirements, evidence needs to exist
 
demonstrating that the OSA has fulfilled the objectives of the Level 1 requirements. Because
 
different  self-assessment objectives  can be met in different ways (e.g., through
 
documentation, computer configuration, network configuration, or training),  a variety of
 
techniques may be used to determine if the OSA meets the Level 1 requirements, including
 
any of the three assessment methods from NIST SP 800-171A. <br />
Follow the guidance in NIST SP 800-171A when determining which assessment methods to
 
use:
 
''Organizations [OSAs] are not expected to employ all assessment methods and ''
 
''objects contained within the assessment procedures identified in this ''
 
''publication. Rather, organizations have the flexibility to determine the level of ''
 
''effort needed and the assurance required  for an assessment (e.g., which ''
 
''assessment methods and assessment objects are deemed to be the most useful in ''
 
''obtaining the desired results). This determination is made based on how the ''
 
''organization can accomplish the assessment objectives in the most cost-effective ''
 
''manner and with sufficient confidence to support the determination that the ''
 
''[FCI] requirements have been satisfied. ''
 
For more detailed information on assessment methods, see NIST SP 800-171A Appendix D.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment Criteria and Methodology
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
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Who Is Interviewed
 
Interviews of applicable staff (possibly at different organizational levels)  may provide
 
information to help an entity determine if Level  1  security  requirements  have been
 
implemented, as well as if adequate resourcing, training, and planning have occurred for
 
individuals to implement the security requirements.
 
What Is Examined
 
Examination includes reviewing, inspecting, observing, studying, or analyzing assessment
 
objects. The objects can be documents, mechanisms, or activities. <br />
For some security  requirements, review of  documentation  may assist an entity in
 
determining  if  the  assessment objectives have been met. Interviews with staff may  help
 
identify relevant documents. As set forth in 32 CFR § 170.24, documents need to be in their
 
final forms; drafts of policies or documentation are not eligible to be used  as evidence
 
because they are not yet official and still subject to change. Common types of documents that
 
may be used as evidence include: <br />
 
  policy, process, and procedure documents;
 
 
  training materials;
 
 
  plans and planning documents; and
 
 
  system, network, and data flow diagrams.
 
This list of documents is not exhaustive or prescriptive. An OSA may not have these specific
 
documents, and other documents may be reviewed. <br />
In other cases, the security requirement is best self-assessed by observing that safeguards
 
are in place by viewing hardware, associated configuration information, or observing staff
 
following a process.
 
What Is Tested
 
Testing is an important part of the self-assessment process. Interviews provide information
 
about  what the OSA  staff believe to be true, documentation provides evidence of
 
implementing policies and procedures, and testing demonstrates what has or has not been
 
done. For example, OSA staff may talk about how users are identified, documentation may
 
provide details on how users are identified, but seeing a demonstration of identifying users
 
provides evidence that the requirement is met. Not all security requirements utilize testing
 
to allow an entity to determine if whether the assessment objective has been met.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment Criteria and Methodology
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
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Assessment Findings
 
The self-assessment of a CMMC requirement results in one of three possible findings: MET,
 
NOT  MET, or NOT APPLICABLE  as defined in 32 CFR  §  170.24. To demonstrate  Level  1
 
compliance, the OSA will need a finding of MET or NOT APPLICABLE on all Level 1 security
 
requirements. <br />
 
  '''MET''':  All applicable objectives  for the  security requirement are  satisfied  based on
 
evidence.  All evidence must be in final form and not draft.  Unacceptable forms of
 
evidence include working papers, drafts, and unofficial or unapproved policies. For each
 
security requirement marked MET, it is best practice to record statements that indicate
 
the response  conforms to all objectives and document the appropriate evidence to
 
support the response.
 
o  Enduring Exceptions when described, along with any mitigations, in the system
 
security plan shall be assessed as MET.
 
o  Temporary deficiencies that are appropriately addressed in operational plans of
 
action (i.e., include deficiency reviews, milestones, and show progress towards
 
the implementation of corrections to reduce or eliminate identified
 
vulnerabilities) shall be assessed as MET.
 
 
  '''NOT MET''': One or more objectives of the security requirement is not satisfied. For each
 
security  requirement  marked NOT MET,  it is best practice to record statements that
 
explain why and document  the appropriate evidence showing  that the OSA  does not
 
conform fully to all of the objectives.
 
 
  '''NOT APPLICABLE (N/A)''': A security requirement and/or objective do not apply at the
 
time of the assessment. For each security requirement marked N/A, it is best practice to
 
record a statement that explains why the requirement does not apply to the OSA. For
 
example, SC.L1-b.1.xi might be N/A if there are no publicly accessible systems within the
 
CMMC Assessment Scope. During an assessment, an assessment objective assessed as
 
N/A is equivalent to the same assessment objective being assessed as MET. <br />
Each assessment objective in NIST SP 800-171A must yield a finding of MET or NOT
 
APPLICABLE in order for the overall security requirement to be scored as MET. Assessors
 
exercise judgment in determining when sufficient and adequate evidence has been
 
presented to make an assessment finding. <br />
CMMC assessments are conducted and results are captured at the assessment objective
 
level.  One NOT MET Assessment Objective  results in a failure of the entire security
 
requirement. <br />
A security requirement can be applicable even when assessment objectives included in
 
the security requirement are scored N/A. The security requirement is NOT MET when
 
one or more applicable assessment objectives is NOT MET. <br />
Satisfaction of security requirements may be accomplished by other parts of the
 
enterprise or an External Service Provider (ESP), as defined in 32 CFR § 170.4. A security
 
requirement is considered MET if adequate evidence is provided that the enterprise or
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment Criteria and Methodology
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
9
 
 
ESP implements the requirement objectives. An ESP may be external people, technology,
 
or facilities that the OSA  uses, including cloud service providers, managed service
 
providers, managed security service providers, or cybersecurity-as-a-service providers.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Requirement Descriptions
 
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10
 
 
Requirement Descriptions <br />
Introduction <br />
This section provides detailed information and guidance for assessing each Level 1 security
 
requirement. The section  is  organized  first  by domain  and then by individual security
 
requirement. Each security  requirement  description  contains  the following  elements  as
 
described in 32 CFR § 170.14(c): <br />
 
  '''Requirement  Number, Name, and Statement: '''Headed by the requirement
 
identification number in the format, DD.L#-REQ  (e.g., AC.L1-b.1.i); followed by the
 
requirement short name identifier, meant to be used for quick reference only; and finally
 
followed by the complete CMMC security requirement statement.
 
 
  '''Assessment Objectives [NIST SP 800-171A]: '''Identifies the specific set of objectives that
 
must be met to receive MET for the requirement as defined in NIST SP 800-171A.
 
 
  '''Potential Assessment Methods and Objects [NIST SP 800-171A]: '''Describes the nature
 
and the extent of the self-assessment  actions as set forth in NIST SP 800-171A. The
 
methods include ''examine'', ''interview'', and ''test''. Self-assessment objects identify the items
 
being assessed and can include specifications, mechanisms, activities, and individuals.
 
 
  '''Discussion [NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2]: '''Contains discussion from the associated NIST SP
 
800-171 security requirement. Level 1 aligns with FAR Clause 52.204-21, which focuses
 
on FCI, and the NIST text has been modified, as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1), to
 
reflect this.
 
 
  '''Further Discussion: '''
 
o  Expands upon the NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 discussion content to provide additional
 
guidance.
 
o  Contains examples illustrating application of the requirements. These examples are
 
intended to provide  insight but are not intended  to be prescriptive of how the
 
requirement must be implemented, nor are they comprehensive of all assessment
 
objectives necessary to achieve the requirement. The assessment objectives met
 
within the example are referenced by letter in a bracket (e.g., [a,d] for objectives “a”
 
and “d”) within the text.
 
o  Examples are written from the perspective of an organization or an employee of
 
an organization implementing solutions or researching approaches to satisfy
 
CMMC requirements. The objective is to put the reader into the role of
 
implementing or maintaining alternatives to satisfy security requirements.
 
Examples are not all-inclusive or prescriptive and do not imply any personal
 
responsibility for complying with CMMC requirements.
 
o  Provides  potential assessment considerations.  These  may  include  common
 
considerations for assessing the requirement and potential questions that may be
 
asked when assessing the objectives.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Requirement Descriptions
 
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11
 
 
 
  '''Key References: '''Lists  the  identical  basic safeguarding requirement from FAR clause
 
52.204-21 and the pertinent security requirement from NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.i – Authorized Access Control [FCI Data]
 
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12
 
 
Access Control (AC) <br />
'''AC.L1-B.1.I – AUTHORIZED ACCESS CONTROL [FCI DATA] '''
 
Limit  information system  access to authorized users, processes acting on behalf of
 
authorized users, or devices (including other information systems).
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#16|3 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
authorized users are identified;
 
[b]
 
processes acting on behalf of authorized users are identified;
 
[c]
 
devices (and other systems) authorized to connect to the system are identified;
 
[d]
 
system access is limited to authorized users;
 
[e]
 
system access is limited to processes acting on behalf of authorized users; and
 
[f]
 
system access is limited to authorized devices (including other systems).
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]3 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Access control policy; procedures addressing account management; system
 
security plan[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#16|45]]; system design documentation; system configuration settings and associated
 
documentation; list of active system accounts and the name of the individual associated with
 
each account; notifications or records of recently transferred, separated, or terminated
 
employees; list of conditions for group and role membership; list of recently disabled system
 
accounts along with the name of the individual associated with each account; access
 
authorization records; account management compliance reviews; system monitoring
 
records; system audit logs and records; list of devices and systems authorized to connect to
 
organizational systems; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with account management responsibilities; system or network
 
administrators; personnel with information security responsibilities].
 
 
3
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 9
 
4
 
It is recommended that an OSA develop a SSP as a best practice at Level 1, however, it is not required in order
 
to obtain a Level 1 self-assessment.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.i – Authorized Access Control [FCI Data]
 
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13
 
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for managing system accounts; mechanisms for
 
implementing account management].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#17|6]] '''
 
Access control policies (e.g., identity-  or role-based policies, control matrices, and
 
cryptography) control access between active entities or subjects (i.e., users or processes
 
acting on behalf of users) and passive entities or objects (e.g., devices, files, records, and
 
domains) in systems. Access enforcement mechanisms can be employed at the application
 
and service level to provide increased information security. Other systems include systems
 
internal and external to the organization. This requirement focuses on account management
 
for systems and applications. The definition of and enforcement of access authorizations,
 
other than those determined by account type (e.g., privileged verses ''[sic] ''non-privileged) are
 
addressed in AC.L1-b.1.ii.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Identify users, processes, and devices that are allowed to use company computers and can
 
log on to the company network. Automated updates and other automatic processes should
 
be associated with the user who initiated (authorized) the process. Limit the devices (e.g.,
 
printers)  that can be accessed by company computers.  Set up your system so that only
 
authorized users, processes, and devices can access the company network. <br />
This  requirement, AC.L1-b.1.i, controls system access based on user, process,  or device
 
identity. AC.L1-b.1.i leverages IA.L1-b.1.v which provides a vetted and trusted identity for
 
access control.
 
'''Example 1 <br />
'''Your company maintains a list of all personnel authorized to use company information
 
systems [a]. This list is used to support identification and authentication activities conducted
 
by IT when authorizing access to systems [a,d].
 
'''Example 2 <br />
'''A coworker wants to buy a new multi-function printer/scanner/fax device and make it
 
available on the company network. You explain that the company controls system and device
 
access to the network, and will prevent network access by unauthorized systems and devices
 
[c]. You help the coworker submit a ticket that asks for the printer to be granted access to
 
the network, and appropriate leadership approves the device [f].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Is a list of authorized users maintained that defines their identities and roles [a]?
 
 
6
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p.10
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.i – Authorized Access Control [FCI Data]
 
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14
 
 
 
  Are account requests authorized before system access is granted [d,e,f]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.i
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.1.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.ii – Transaction &amp; Function Control [FCI Data]
 
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15
 
 
'''AC.L1-B.1.II – TRANSACTION &amp; FUNCTION CONTROL [FCI DATA] '''
 
Limit information system access to the types of transactions and functions that authorized
 
users are permitted to execute.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#19|7 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
the types of transactions and functions that authorized users are permitted to
 
execute are defined; and <br />
[b]
 
system access is limited to the defined types of transactions and functions for
 
authorized users.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]7 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Access control policy; procedures addressing access enforcement; system
 
security plan; system design documentation; list of approved authorizations including
 
remote access authorizations; system audit logs and records; system configuration settings
 
and associated documentation; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with access enforcement responsibilities; system or network
 
administrators; personnel with information security responsibilities; system developers].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Mechanisms implementing access control policy].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#19|8]] '''
 
Organizations may choose to define access privileges or other attributes by account, by type
 
of account, or a combination of both. System account types include individual, shared, group,
 
system, anonymous, guest, emergency, developer, manufacturer, vendor, and temporary.
 
Other attributes required for authorizing access include restrictions on time-of-day, day-of-
 
week, and point-of  -origin.  In defining other account attributes, organizations consider
 
system-related requirements (e.g., system upgrades scheduled maintenance,) and mission
 
or  business requirements, (e.g., time zone differences, customer requirements, remote
 
access to support travel requirements).
 
 
7
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 9
 
8
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, pp. 10-11
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.ii – Transaction &amp; Function Control [FCI Data]
 
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16
 
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Limit users to only the information systems, roles, or applications they are permitted to use
 
and require for their roles and responsibilities. Limit access to applications and data based
 
on authorized users’ roles and responsibilities. Common types of functions a user can be
 
assigned are create, read, update, and delete.
 
'''Example <br />
'''You supervise the team that manages DoD contracts for your company. Members of your
 
team need to access the contract information to perform their work properly. Because some
 
of that data contains FCI, you work with IT to set up your group’s systems so that users can
 
be assigned access based on their specific roles [a]. Each role limits whether an employee
 
has read-access or create/read/delete/update -access [b]. Implementing this access control
 
restricts access to FCI information unless specifically authorized.
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are access control lists used to limit access to applications and data based on role and/or
 
identity [a]?
 
 
  Is access for authorized users restricted to those parts of the system they are explicitly
 
permitted to use, that is, is access denied by default and allowed by exception (e.g., a
 
person who only performs word-processing cannot access developer tools) [b]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.ii
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.1.2
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.iii – External Connections [FCI Data]
 
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17
 
 
'''AC.L1-B.1.III – EXTERNAL CONNECTIONS [FCI DATA] '''
 
Verify and control/limit connections to and use of external information systems.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#21|9 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
connections to external systems are identified;
 
[b]
 
the use of external systems is identified;
 
[c]
 
connections to external systems are verified;
 
[d]
 
the use of external systems is verified;
 
[e]
 
connections to external systems are controlled/limited; and
 
[f]
 
the use of external systems is controlled/limited.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]9 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Access control policy; procedures addressing the use of external systems;
 
terms and conditions for external systems; system security plan; list of applications
 
accessible from external systems; system configuration settings and associated
 
documentation; system connection or processing agreements; account management
 
documents; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with responsibilities for defining terms and conditions for use of
 
external systems to access organizational systems; system or network administrators;
 
personnel with information security responsibilities].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Mechanisms implementing terms and conditions on use of external
 
systems].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#21|10]] '''
 
External systems are systems or components of systems for which organizations typically
 
have no direct supervision and authority over the application of security requirements and
 
controls or the determination of the effectiveness of implemented controls on those systems.
 
External systems include personally owned systems, components, or devices and privately-
 
owned computing and communications devices resident in commercial or public facilities.
 
 
9
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 17
 
10
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, pp. 15-16
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.iii – External Connections [FCI Data]
 
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18
 
 
This requirement also addresses the use of external systems for the processing, storage, or
 
transmission of FCI, including accessing cloud services (e.g., infrastructure as a service,
 
platform as a service, or software as a service) from organizational systems. <br />
Organizations establish terms and conditions for the use of external systems in accordance
 
with organizational security policies and procedures. Terms and conditions address as a
 
minimum, the types of applications that can be accessed on organizational systems from
 
external systems. If terms and conditions with the owners of external systems cannot be
 
established, organizations may impose restrictions on organizational personnel using those
 
external systems. <br />
This requirement recognizes that there are circumstances where individuals using external
 
systems (e.g., contractors, coalition partners) need to access organizational systems. In those
 
situations, organizations need confidence that the external systems contain the necessary
 
controls so as not to compromise, damage, or otherwise harm organizational systems.
 
Verification that the required controls have been effectively implemented can be achieved
 
by third-party, independent assessments, attestations, or other means, depending on the
 
assurance or confidence level required by organizations. <br />
Note that while “external” typically refers to outside of the organization’s direct supervision
 
and authority, that is not always the case. Regarding the protection of FCI across an
 
organization, the organization may have systems that process FCI and others that do not.
 
And among the systems that process FCI there are likely access restrictions for FCI that apply
 
between systems. Therefore, from the perspective of a given system, other systems within
 
the organization may be considered “external&quot; to that system.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Control and manage connections between your company network and outside networks.
 
Outside networks could include the public internet, one of your own company’s networks
 
that falls outside of your CMMC Assessment Scope (e.g., an isolated lab), or a network that
 
does not belong to your company.  Tools to manage connections include firewalls and
 
connection allow/deny lists. External systems not controlled by your  company could be
 
running applications that are prohibited or blocked. Control and limit access to corporate
 
networks from personally owned  devices  such as  laptops, tablets, and phones.  You  may
 
choose to limit how and when your network is connected to outside systems or only allow
 
certain employees to connect to outside systems from network resources.
 
'''Example <br />
'''Your company has just been awarded a contract which contains FCI. You remind your
 
coworkers of the policy requirement to use their company laptops, not personal laptops or
 
tablets, when working remotely on this contract [b,f]. You also remind everyone to work
 
from the cloud environment that is approved for processing and storing FCI rather than the
 
other collaborative tools that may be used for other projects [b,f].
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.iii – External Connections [FCI Data]
 
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19
 
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are all connections to external systems outside of the assessment scope identified [a]?
 
 
  Are external systems (e.g., systems managed by OSAs, partners, or vendors; personal
 
devices) that are permitted to connect to or make use of organizational systems
 
identified [b]?
 
 
  Are methods employed to ensure that only authorized connections are being made to
 
external systems (e.g., requiring log-ins or certificates, access from a specific IP address,
 
or access via VPN) [c,e]?
 
 
  Are methods employed to confirm that only authorized external systems are connecting
 
(e.g., if employees are receiving company email on personal cell phones, is the OSA
 
checking to verify that only known/expected devices are connecting) [d]?
 
 
  Is the use of external systems limited, including by policy or physical control [f]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.iii
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.1.20
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.iv – Control Public Information [FCI Data]
 
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20
 
 
'''AC.L1-B.1.IV – CONTROL PUBLIC INFORMATION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Control information posted or processed on publicly accessible information systems.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#24|11 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
individuals authorized to post or process information on publicly accessible systems
 
are identified; <br />
[b]
 
procedures to ensure [FCI] is not posted or processed on publicly accessible
 
systems are identified; <br />
[c]
 
a review process is in place prior to posting of any content to publicly accessible
 
systems; <br />
[d]
 
content on publicly accessible systems is reviewed to ensure that it does not include
 
[FCI]; and <br />
[e]
 
mechanisms are in place to remove and address improper posting of [FCI].
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]11 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Access control policy; procedures addressing publicly accessible content;
 
system security plan; list of users authorized to post publicly accessible content on
 
organizational systems; training materials and/or records; records of publicly accessible
 
information reviews; records of response to nonpublic information on public websites;
 
system audit logs and records; security awareness training records; other relevant
 
documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with responsibilities for managing publicly accessible
 
information posted on organizational systems; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Mechanisms implementing management of publicly accessible content].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#24|12]] '''
 
In accordance with laws, Executive Orders, directives, policies, regulations, or standards, the
 
public is not authorized access to nonpublic information (e.g., information protected under
 
the Privacy Act, FCI, and proprietary information). This requirement addresses systems that
 
 
11
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 18
 
12
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 16
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AC.L1-b.1.iv – Control Public Information [FCI Data]
 
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21
 
 
are controlled by the organization and accessible to the public, typically without
 
identification or authentication. Individuals authorized to post FCI onto publicly accessible
 
systems are designated.  The content of information is reviewed prior to posting onto
 
publicly accessible systems to ensure that nonpublic information is not included.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Only government officials can be authorized to publicly release FCI. Do not allow FCI to
 
become public – always safeguard the confidentiality of FCI by controlling the posting of FCI
 
on company-controlled websites or public forums  and the exposure of FCI in public
 
presentations or on public displays. It is important to know which users are allowed to
 
publish  information on publicly accessible systems, like your company website, and
 
implement a review process before posting such information. If FCI is discovered on a
 
publicly accessible system, procedures should be in place to remove that information and
 
alert the appropriate parties.
 
'''Example <br />
'''Your company decides to start issuing press releases about its projects in an effort to reach
 
more potential customers. Your company receives FCI from the government as part of its
 
DoD contract. Because you recognize the need to manage controlled information, including
 
FCI, you meet with the employees who write the releases and post information to establish
 
a review process [c]. It is decided that you will review press releases for FCI before posting
 
it on the company website [a,d]. Only certain employees will be authorized to post to the
 
website [a].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Does information on externally facing systems (e.g., publicly accessible) have a
 
documented approval chain for public release [c]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.iv
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.1.22
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IA.L1-b.1.v – Identification [FCI Data]
 
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22
 
 
Identification and Authentication (IA) <br />
'''IA.L1-B.1.V – IDENTIFICATION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Identify information system users, processes acting on behalf of users, or devices.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#26|13 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
system users are identified;
 
[b]
 
processes acting on behalf of users are identified; and
 
[c]
 
devices accessing the system are identified.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]13 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Identification and authentication policy; procedures addressing user
 
identification and authentication; system security plan, system design documentation;
 
system configuration settings and associated documentation; system audit logs and records;
 
list of system accounts; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT  FROM: Personnel with system operations responsibilities; personnel with
 
information security responsibilities; system or network administrators; personnel with
 
account management responsibilities; system developers].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for uniquely identifying and authenticating users;
 
mechanisms supporting or implementing identification and authentication capability].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#26|14]] '''
 
Common device identifiers include media access control (MAC),  Internet Protocol (IP)
 
addresses, or device-unique token identifiers. Management of individual identifiers is not
 
applicable to shared system accounts. Typically, individual identifiers are the user names
 
associated with the system accounts assigned to those individuals.  Organizations may
 
require unique identification of individuals in group accounts or for detailed accountability
 
of individual activity. In addition, this requirement addresses individual identifiers that are
 
not necessarily associated with system accounts.  Organizational devices requiring
 
 
13
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 31
 
14
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 23
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IA.L1-b.1.v – Identification [FCI Data]
 
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23
 
 
identification may be defined by type, by device, or by a combination of type/device.
 
NIST SP 800-63-3 provides guidance on digital identities.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Individual, unique identifiers (e.g., user names) should be assigned to all users and processes
 
that  access company systems. Authorized devices also should have unique identifiers.
 
Unique identifiers can be as simple as a short set of alphanumeric characters (e.g., SW001
 
could refer to a network switch, SW002 could refer to a different network switch). <br />
This requirement, IA.L1-b.1.v, provides a vetted and trusted identity that supports the access
 
control mechanism required by AC.L1-b.1.i.
 
'''Example <br />
'''You want to make sure  that all employees working on a project can access important
 
information about it. Because this is work for the DoD and contains FCI, you also need to
 
prevent employees who are not working on that project from being able to access the
 
information. You assign each employee a unique user ID, which they use to log on to the
 
system [a].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are unique identifiers issued to individual users (e.g., usernames) [a]?
 
 
  Are the processes and service accounts that an authorized user initiates identified (e.g.,
 
scripts, automatic updates, configuration updates, vulnerability scans) [b]?
 
 
  Are unique device identifiers used for devices that access the system identified [c]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES'''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.v
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.5.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IA.L1-b.1.vi – Authentication [FCI Data]
 
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24
 
 
'''IA.L1-B.1.VI – AUTHENTICATION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Authenticate (or verify) the identities of those users, processes, or devices, as a prerequisite
 
to allowing access to organizational information systems.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#28|15 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
the identity of each user is authenticated or verified as a prerequisite to system
 
access; <br />
[b]
 
the identity of each process acting on behalf of a user is authenticated or verified as
 
a prerequisite to system access; and <br />
[c]
 
the identity of each device accessing or connecting to the system is authenticated or
 
verified as a prerequisite to system access.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]15 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Identification and authentication policy; system security plan; procedures
 
addressing authenticator management; procedures addressing user identification and
 
authentication; system design documentation; list of system authenticator types; system
 
configuration settings and associated documentation; change control records associated
 
with managing system authenticators; system audit logs and records; other relevant
 
documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with authenticator management responsibilities; personnel with
 
information security responsibilities; system or network administrators].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Mechanisms supporting or implementing authenticator management
 
capability].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#28|16]] '''
 
Individual authenticators include the following: passwords, key cards, cryptographic
 
devices, and one-time password devices. Initial authenticator content is the actual content
 
of the authenticator, for example, the initial password. In contrast, the requirements about
 
authenticator content include the minimum password length.  Developers ship system
 
components with factory default authentication credentials to allow for initial installation
 
 
15
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 31
 
16
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 23
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IA.L1-b.1.vi – Authentication [FCI Data]
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
25
 
 
and configuration.  Default authentication credentials are often well known, easily
 
discoverable, and present a significant security risk. <br />
Systems support authenticator management by organization-defined settings and
 
restrictions for various authenticator characteristics including minimum password length,
 
validation time window for time synchronous one-time tokens, and number of allowed
 
rejections during the verification stage of biometric authentication.  Authenticator
 
management includes issuing and revoking, when no longer needed, authenticators for
 
temporary access such as that required for remote maintenance.  Device authenticators
 
include certificates and passwords. <br />
NIST SP 800-63-3 provides guidance on digital identities.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Before a person or device is given system access, verify that the user or device is who or what
 
it claims to be. This verification is called authentication. The most common way to verify
 
identity is using a username and a hard-to-guess password. <br />
Some devices ship with a default username (e.g., admin) and password. A default username
 
and password should be immediately changed to something unique. Default passwords may
 
be  well known to the public,  easily found in a search, or easy to guess,  allowing  an
 
unauthorized person to access the system.
 
'''Example 1 <br />
'''You are in charge of purchasing laptops that will store FCI. You know that some laptops come
 
with a default username and password. You notify IT that all default passwords should be
 
reset prior to laptop use [a]. You ask IT to explain the importance of resetting default
 
passwords and convey how easily they are discovered using internet searches during next
 
week’s cybersecurity awareness training.
 
'''Example 2 <br />
'''Your company decides to use cloud services for email and other capabilities  that will
 
transmit FCI. Upon reviewing this requirement, you realize every user or device that
 
connects to the cloud service must be authenticated. As a result, you work with your cloud
 
service provider to ensure that only properly authenticated users and devices are allowed
 
to connect to the system [a,c].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are unique authenticators used to verify user identities (e.g., usernames and passwords)
 
[a]?
 
 
  An example of a process acting on behalf of users could be a script that logs in as a person
 
or service account [b]. Can the OSA show that it maintains a record of all of those service
 
accounts for use when reviewing log data or responding to an incident?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IA.L1-b.1.vi – Authentication [FCI Data]
 
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26
 
 
 
  Are user credentials authenticated in system processes (e.g., credentials binding,
 
certificates, tokens) [b]?
 
 
  Are device identifiers used in authentication processes (e.g., MAC address, non-
 
anonymous computer name, certificates) [c]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.vi
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.5.2
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MP.L1-b.1.vii – Media Disposal [FCI Data]
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
27
 
 
Media Protection (MP) <br />
'''MP.L1-B.1.VII – MEDIA DISPOSAL [FCI DATA] '''
 
Sanitize or destroy  information  system  media  containing  Federal Contract Information
 
before disposal or release for reuse.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#31|17 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
system media containing [FCI] is sanitized or destroyed before disposal; and
 
[b]
 
system media containing [FCI] is sanitized before it is released for reuse.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#31|18 ]]'''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System media protection policy; procedures addressing media sanitization
 
and disposal; applicable standards and policies addressing media sanitization; system
 
security plan; media sanitization records; system audit logs and records; system design
 
documentation; system configuration settings and associated documentation; other relevant
 
documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with media sanitization responsibilities; personnel with
 
information security responsibilities; system or network administrators].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for media sanitization; mechanisms supporting or
 
implementing media sanitization].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#31|19]] '''
 
This requirement applies to all system media, digital and non-digital, subject to disposal or
 
reuse.  Examples  include: digital media found in workstations, network components,
 
scanners, copiers, printers, notebook computers, and mobile devices; and non-digital media
 
such as paper and microfilm. The sanitization process removes information from the media
 
such that the information cannot be retrieved or reconstructed.  Sanitization techniques,
 
including clearing, purging, cryptographic erase, and destruction, prevent the disclosure of
 
information to unauthorized individuals when such media is released for reuse or disposal.
 
 
17
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 41
 
18
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 42
 
19
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 29
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MP.L1-b.1.vii – Media Disposal [FCI Data]
 
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28
 
 
Organizations determine the appropriate sanitization methods, recognizing that destruction
 
may be necessary when other methods cannot be applied to the media requiring sanitization. <br />
Organizations use discretion on the employment of sanitization techniques and procedures
 
for media containing information that is in the public domain or publicly releasable or
 
deemed to have no adverse impact on organizations or individuals if released for reuse or
 
disposal.  Sanitization of non-digital media includes destruction, removing FCI from
 
documents, or redacting selected sections or words from a document by obscuring the
 
redacted sections or words in a manner equivalent in effectiveness to removing the words
 
or sections from the document. NARA policy and guidance control sanitization processes.
 
NIST SP 800-88 provides guidance on media sanitization.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Media can include a broad range of items that store information, including paper documents,
 
disks, tapes, digital photography, USB drives, CDs, DVDs, and mobile phones. It is important
 
to know what information is on media so that you can handle it properly. If there is FCI, you
 
or someone in your company should either: <br />
 
  shred or destroy the device before disposal so it cannot be read; or 
 
 
  clean or purge the information, if you want to reuse the device.
 
See NIST Special Publication 800-88, Revision 1, ''Guidelines for Media Sanitization'', for more
 
information.
 
'''Example <br />
'''As you pack for an office move, you find some old CDs in a file cabinet. You determine that
 
one has FCI from a project your company did for the DoD. You shred the CD rather than
 
simply throwing it in the trash [a].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Is all managed data storage erased, encrypted, or destroyed using mechanisms to ensure
 
that no usable data is retrievable [a,b]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.vii
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.8.3
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PE.L1-b.1.viii – Limit Physical Access [FCI Data]
 
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29
 
 
Physical Protection (PE) <br />
'''PE.L1-B.1.VIII – LIMIT PHYSICAL ACCESS [FCI DATA] '''
 
Limit physical access to organizational information systems, equipment, and the respective
 
operating environments to authorized individuals.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#33|20 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
authorized individuals allowed physical access are identified;
 
[b]
 
physical access to organizational systems is limited to authorized individuals;
 
[c]
 
physical access to equipment is limited to authorized individuals; and
 
[d]
 
physical access to operating environments is limited to authorized individuals.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]20 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Physical and environmental protection policy; procedures addressing
 
physical access authorizations; system security plan; authorized personnel access list;
 
authorization credentials; physical access list reviews; physical access termination records
 
and associated documentation; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with physical access authorization responsibilities; personnel
 
with physical access to system facility; personnel with information security responsibilities].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for physical access authorizations; mechanisms
 
supporting or implementing physical access authorizations].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#33|21]] '''
 
This requirement applies to employees, individuals with permanent physical access
 
authorization credentials, and visitors. Authorized individuals have credentials that include
 
badges,  identification cards, and smart cards.  Organizations determine the strength of
 
authorization credentials needed consistent with applicable laws, directives, policies,
 
 
20
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 46
 
21
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 32
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PE.L1-b.1.viii – Limit Physical Access [FCI Data]
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
30
 
 
regulations, standards, procedures, and guidelines. This requirement applies only to areas
 
within facilities that have not been designated as publicly accessible. <br />
Limiting physical access to equipment may include placing equipment in locked rooms or
 
other secured areas and allowing access to authorized individuals only,  and placing
 
equipment in locations that can be monitored by organizational personnel.  Computing
 
devices, external disk drives, networking devices, monitors, printers, copiers, scanners,
 
facsimile machines, and audio devices are examples of equipment.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
This addresses the company’s physical space (e.g., office, testing environments, equipment
 
rooms), technical assets, and non-technical assets that need to be protected from
 
unauthorized physical access. Specific environments are limited to authorized employees,
 
and access is controlled with badges, electronic locks, physical key locks, etc. <br />
Output devices, such as printers, are placed in areas where their use does not expose data to
 
unauthorized individuals. Lists of personnel with authorized  access are developed and
 
maintained, and personnel are issued appropriate authorization credentials.
 
'''Example <br />
'''You manage a DoD project that stores FCI on computers used only by project team members
 
[b,c]. You work with the facilities manager to put locks on the doors to the areas where the
 
computers are stored and used [b,c,d]. Project team members are the only individuals issued
 
with keys to the space. This restricts access to only those employees who work on the DoD
 
project and require access.
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are lists of personnel with authorized access developed and maintained, and are
 
appropriate authorization credentials issued [a]?
 
 
  Has the facility/building manager designated building areas as “sensitive” and designed
 
physical security protections (e.g., guards, locks, cameras, card readers) to limit physical
 
access to the area to only authorized employees [b,c,d]?
 
 
  Are output devices such as printers placed in areas where their use does not expose data
 
to unauthorized individuals [c]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.viii
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.10.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PE.L1-b.1.ix – Manage Visitors &amp; Physical Access [FCI Data]
 
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31
 
 
'''PE.L1-B.1.IX – MANAGE VISITORS &amp; PHYSICAL ACCESS [FCI DATA] '''
 
Escort visitors and monitor visitor activity; maintain audit logs of physical access; and
 
control and manage physical access devices.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#35|22 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
visitors are escorted; 
 
[b]
 
visitor activity is monitored;
 
[c]
 
audit logs of physical access are maintained;
 
[d]
 
physical access devices are identified;
 
[e]
 
physical access devices are controlled; and
 
[f]
 
physical access devices are managed.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#35|23 ]]'''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Physical and environmental protection policy; procedures addressing
 
physical access control; system security plan; physical access control logs or records;
 
inventory records of physical access control devices; system entry and exit points; records
 
of key and lock combination changes; storage locations for physical access control devices;
 
physical access control devices; list of security safeguards controlling access to designated
 
publicly accessible areas within facility; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Personnel with physical access control responsibilities; personnel with
 
information security responsibilities].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for physical access control; mechanisms
 
supporting or implementing physical access control; physical access control devices].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#35|24]] '''
 
Individuals with permanent physical access authorization credentials are not considered
 
visitors. Audit logs can be used to monitor visitor activity.
 
 
22
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p.47


23
OSAs can choose to perform the annual self-assessment internally or engage a third party to assist. Use of a third party to assist is still considered a self-assessment and does not result in a certification. The primary result of a self-assessment is the submission of Level 1 compliance results into the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) and a self-assessment report, which contains the findings associated with the self- assessment.


NIST SP 800-171A, pp. 47-48
=== Assessment Scope ===
Prior to conducting a Level 1 self-assessment, the OSA must specify the CMMC Assessment Scope as defined in 32 CFR § 170.19(a). The CMMC Assessment Scope identifies which assets within the OSA’s environment will be assessed and the details of the self-assessment. In accordance with §170.19, for a Level 1 self-assessment, the assets that process, store, or transmit FCI are considered in-scope and should be assessed against the Level 1 requirements. See the ''CMMC Scoping Guide – Level 1 ''document for additional information.


24
== CMMC-Custom Terms ==
The CMMC Program has custom terms that align with program requirements. Although some terms may have other definitions in open forums, it is important to understand these terms as they apply to the CMMC Program.


NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, pp. 32-33
The custom terms associated with Level 1 are:
* '''Assessment:''' As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 means the testing or evaluation of security controls to determine the extent to which the controls are implemented correctly, operating as intended, and producing the desired outcome with respect to meeting the security requirements for an information system or organization, as defined in 32 CFR § 170.15 to 32 CFR § 170.18.
** Level 1 self-assessment is the term for the activity performed by an OSA to evaluate its own information system, when seeking a CMMC Status of Final Level 1 (Self).
* '''Assessment Objective:''' A set of determination statements that, taken together, expresses the desired outcome for the assessment of a security requirement. Successful implementation of the corresponding CMMC security requirement requires meeting all applicable assessment objectives defined in NIST SP 800–171A or NIST SP 800-172A.
* '''Asset:''' An item of value to stakeholders. An asset may be tangible (e.g., a physical item such as hardware, firmware, computing platform, network device, or other technology component) or intangible (e.g., humans, data, information, software, capability, function, service, trademark, copyright, patent, intellectual property, image, or reputation). The value of an asset is determined by stakeholders in consideration of loss concerns across the entire system life cycle. Such concerns include but are not limited to business or mission concerns, as defined in NIST SP 800-160 Rev 1.
* '''CMMC Status:''' As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 is the result of meeting or exceeding the minimum required score for the corresponding assessment. The CMMC Status of an OSA information system is officially stored in SPRS and additionally presented on a Certificate of CMMC Status, if the assessment was conducted by a C3PAO or DCMA DIBCAC.
** Final Level 1 (Self) is defined in § 170.15(c)(1). To achieve a CMMC Status of Final Level 1 (Self) the OSA must conduct a Level 1 self-assessment scored in accordance with the CMMC Scoring Methodology described in § 170.24. The Level 1 self-assessment must be performed in accordance with the Level 1 scope requirements set forth in § 170.19(a) and (b). In instances where an objective addresses CUI, the term FCI should be substituted for CUI.
* '''Component:''' A discrete identifiable information technology ''asset'' that represents a building block of a system and may include hardware, software, and firmware<ref>NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2, p 59 under system component</ref>. A ''component'' is one type of ''asset''.
* '''Enduring Exception:''' A special circumstance or system where remediation and full compliance with CMMC security requirements is not feasible. Examples include systems required to replicate the configuration of ‘fielded’ systems, medical devices, test equipment, OT, and IoT. No operational plan of action is required but the circumstance must be documented within a system security plan. Specialized Assets and GFE may be Enduring Exceptions.
* '''Information System (IS):''' A discrete set of information resources organized for the collection, processing, maintenance, use, sharing, dissemination, or disposition of information [NIST 800-171 Rev. 2]. An ''IS'' is one type of ''asset''.''' '''
* '''Monitoring:''' Continual checking, supervising, critically observing, or determining the status in order to identify change from the performance level required or expected [NIST SP 800-160 Vol 1].
* '''Operational plan of action:''' As used in security requirement CA.L2-3.12.2, means the formal artifact which identifies temporary vulnerabilities and temporary deficiencies in implementation of requirements and documents how and when they will be mitigated, corrected, or eliminated. The OSA defines the format (e.g., document, spreadsheet, database) and specific content of its operational plan of action. An operational plan of action is not the same as a POA&M associated with an assessment.
* '''Organization-Defined:''' As determined by the OSA being assessed except as defined in the case of Organization-Defined Parameter (ODP). This can be applied to a frequency or rate at which something occurs within a given time period, or it could be associated with describing the configuration of an OSA’s solution.
* '''Temporary deficiency:''' As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 means a condition where remediation of a discovered deficiency is feasible and a known fix is available or is in process. The deficiency must be documented in an operational plan of action. A temporary deficiency is not based on an ‘in progress’ initial implementation of a CMMC security requirement but arises after implementation. A temporary deficiency may apply during the initial implementation of a security requirement if, during roll-out, specific issues with a very limited subset of equipment is discovered that must be separately addressed. There is no standard duration for which a temporary deficiency may be active. For example, FIPS-validated cryptography that requires a patch and the patched version is no longer the validated version may be a temporary deficiency.


== Assessment Criteria and Methodology==
This ''CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1'' provides guidance regarding the assessment procedures required by 32 CFR § 170.15, which requires the Level 1 self-assessment to be performed using the objectives defined in NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171A<ref>NIST SP 800-171A, ''Assessing Security Requirements for Controlled Unclassified Information, ''June 2018 (italics and bulleted list formatting altered)</ref>. NIST SP 800-171A Section 2.1 says the following:


: ''An assessment procedure consists of an assessment objective and a set of potential assessment methods and assessment objects that can be used to conduct the assessment. Each assessment objective includes a determination statement related to the requirement that is the subject of the assessment. The determination statements are linked to the content of the requirement to ensure traceability of the assessment results to the requirements. The application of an assessment procedure to a requirement produces assessment findings. These findings reflect, or are subsequently used, to help determine if the requirement has been satisfied.


Assessment objects identify the specific items being assessed and can include specifications, mechanisms, activities, and individuals.
* ''Specifications are the document-based artifacts (e.g., policies, procedures, security plans, security requirements, functional specifications, and architectural designs) associated with a system.''
* ''Mechanisms are the specific hardware, software, or firmware safeguards employed within a system.''
* ''Activities are the protection-related actions supporting a system that involve people (e.g., conducting system backup operations, exercising a contingency plan, and monitoring network traffic).''
* ''Individuals, or groups of individuals, are people applying the specifications, mechanisms, or activities described above.''


''The assessment methods define the nature and the extent of the assessor’s actions. The methods include'' examine, interview, ''and'' test.
* ''The'' examine ''method is the process of reviewing, inspecting, observing, studying, or analyzing assessment objects (i.e., specifications, mechanisms, activities). The purpose of the ''examine'' method is to facilitate understanding, achieve clarification, or obtain evidence.''
* ''The'' interview ''method is the process of holding discussions with individuals or groups of individuals to facilitate understanding, achieve clarification, or obtain evidence.''
* ''And finally, the'' test ''method is the process of exercising assessment objects (i.e., activities, mechanisms) under specified conditions to compare actual with expected behavior.''


: ''In all three assessment methods, the results are used in making specific determinations called for in the determination statements and thereby achieving the objectives for the assessment procedure.''


The guidance specified in NIST SP 800-171A focuses on Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Since Level 1 focuses on safeguarding FCI, the applicable self-assessment objectives for Level 1 are modified to address FCI rather than CUI as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1)(i). Where '''CUI''' is noted in a NIST SP 800-171A assessment objective, '''[FCI]''' has been substituted in the Level 1 objective description. Level 1 security requirement descriptions align with FAR Clause 52.204-21.


=== Criteria ===
Assessment objectives are provided for each Level 1 requirement and are based on existing criteria in NIST SP 800-171A modified for FCI rather than CUI as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1)(i). The criteria are authoritative and provide the basis for the self-assessment of a requirement.


=== Methodology ===
To verify and validate that an OSA is meeting CMMC requirements, evidence needs to exist demonstrating that the OSA has fulfilled the objectives of the Level 1 requirements. Because different self-assessment objectives can be met in different ways (e.g., through documentation, computer configuration, network configuration, or training), a variety of techniques may be used to determine if the OSA meets the Level 1 requirements, including any of the three assessment methods from NIST SP 800-171A.


PE.L1-b.1.ix – Manage Visitors &amp; Physical Access [FCI Data]
Follow the guidance in NIST SP 800-171A when determining which assessment methods to use:


CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
: ''Organizations [OSAs] are not expected to employ all assessment methods and objects contained within the assessment procedures identified in this publication. Rather, organizations have the flexibility to determine the level of effort needed and the assurance required for an assessment (e.g., which assessment methods and assessment objects are deemed to be the most useful in obtaining the desired results). This determination is made based on how the organization can accomplish the assessment objectives in the most cost-effective manner and with sufficient confidence to support the determination that the [FCI] requirements have been satisfied.''


32
For more detailed information on assessment methods, see NIST SP 800-171A Appendix D.


==== Who Is Interviewed ====
Interviews of applicable staff (possibly at different organizational levels) may provide information to help an entity determine if Level 1 security requirements have been implemented, as well as if adequate resourcing, training, and planning have occurred for individuals to implement the security requirements.


Organizations have flexibility in the types of audit logs employed. Audit logs can be  
==== What Is Examined ====
Examination includes reviewing, inspecting, observing, studying, or analyzing assessment objects. The objects can be documents, mechanisms, or activities.


procedural (e.g., written log of individuals accessing the facility), automated (e.g., capturing
For some security requirements, review of documentation may assist an entity in determining if the assessment objectives have been met. Interviews with staff may help identify relevant documents. As set forth in 32 CFR § 170.24, documents need to be in their final forms; drafts of policies or documentation are not eligible to be used as evidence because they are not yet official and still subject to change. Common types of documents that may be used as evidence include:
* policy, process, and procedure documents;
* training materials;
* plans and planning documents; and
* system, network, and data flow diagrams.


ID provided by a Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card), or some combination thereof.  
This list of documents is not exhaustive or prescriptive. An OSA may not have these specific documents, and other documents may be reviewed.


Physical access points can include facility access points, interior access points to systems or  
In other cases, the security requirement is best self-assessed by observing that safeguards are in place by viewing hardware, associated configuration information, or observing staff following a process.


system components requiring supplemental access controls, or both. System components
==== What Is Tested ====
Testing is an important part of the self-assessment process. Interviews provide information about what the OSA staff believe to be true, documentation provides evidence of implementing policies and procedures, and testing demonstrates what has or has not been done. For example, OSA staff may talk about how users are identified, documentation may provide details on how users are identified, but seeing a demonstration of identifying users provides evidence that the requirement is met. Not all security requirements utilize testing to allow an entity to determine if whether the assessment objective has been met.


(e.g., workstations, notebook computers) may be in areas designated as publicly accessible  
=== Assessment Findings ===
The self-assessment of a CMMC requirement results in one of three possible findings: MET, NOT MET, or NOT APPLICABLE as defined in 32 CFR § 170.24. To demonstrate Level 1 compliance, the OSA will need a finding of MET or NOT APPLICABLE on all Level 1 security requirements.
* '''MET''': All applicable objectives for the security requirement are satisfied based on evidence. All evidence must be in final form and not draft. Unacceptable forms of evidence include working papers, drafts, and unofficial or unapproved policies. For each security requirement marked MET, it is best practice to record statements that indicate the response conforms to all objectives and document the appropriate evidence to support the response.
** Enduring Exceptions when described, along with any mitigations, in the system security plan shall be assessed as MET.
** Temporary deficiencies that are appropriately addressed in operational plans of action (i.e., include deficiency reviews, milestones, and show progress towards the implementation of corrections to reduce or eliminate identified vulnerabilities) shall be assessed as MET.
* '''NOT MET''': One or more objectives of the security requirement is not satisfied. For each security requirement marked NOT MET, it is best practice to record statements that explain why and document the appropriate evidence showing that the OSA does not conform fully to all of the objectives.
* '''NOT APPLICABLE (N/A)''': A security requirement and/or objective do not apply at the time of the assessment. For each security requirement marked N/A, it is best practice to record a statement that explains why the requirement does not apply to the OSA. For example, SC.L1-b.1.xi might be N/A if there are no publicly accessible systems within the CMMC Assessment Scope. During an assessment, an assessment objective assessed as N/A is equivalent to the same assessment objective being assessed as MET.


with organizations safeguarding access to such devices. <br />
Each assessment objective in NIST SP 800-171A must yield a finding of MET or NOT APPLICABLE in order for the overall security requirement to be scored as MET. Assessors exercise judgment in determining when sufficient and adequate evidence has been presented to make an assessment finding.
Physical access devices include keys, locks, combinations, and card readers.  


'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
CMMC assessments are conducted and results are captured at the assessment objective level. One NOT MET Assessment Objective results in a failure of the entire security requirement.


Do not allow visitors, even those people you know well, to walk around your facility without
A security requirement can be applicable even when assessment objectives included in the security requirement are scored N/A. The security requirement is NOT MET when one or more applicable assessment objectives is NOT MET.


an escort. All non-employees should wear special visitor badges and/or are escorted by an
Satisfaction of security requirements may be accomplished by other parts of the enterprise or an External Service Provider (ESP), as defined in 32 CFR § 170.4. A security requirement is considered MET if adequate evidence is provided that the enterprise or ESP implements the requirement objectives. An ESP may be external people, technology, or facilities that the OSA uses, including cloud service providers, managed service providers, managed security service providers, or cybersecurity-as-a-service providers.


employee at all times while on the property. <br />
== Requirement Descriptions ==
Make sure you have a record of who accesses your facility (e.g., office, plant, factory). You can
=== Introduction ===
 
This section provides detailed information and guidance for assessing each Level 1 security requirement. The section is organized first by domain and then by individual security requirement. Each security requirement description contains the following elements as described in 32 CFR § 170.14(c):
do this in writing by having employees and visitors sign in and sign out or by electronic
* '''Requirement Number, Name, and Statement:''' Headed by the requirement identification number in the format, DD.L#-REQ (e.g., AC.L1-b.1.i); followed by the requirement short name identifier, meant to be used for quick reference only; and finally followed by the complete CMMC security requirement statement.
 
* '''Assessment Objectives [NIST SP 800-171A]:''' Identifies the specific set of objectives that must be met to receive MET for the requirement as defined in NIST SP 800-171A.
means such as badge readers. Whatever means you use, you need to retain the access records
* '''Potential Assessment Methods and Objects [NIST SP 800-171A]:''' Describes the nature and the extent of the self-assessment actions as set forth in NIST SP 800-171A. The methods include ''examine'', ''interview'', and ''test''. Self-assessment objects identify the items being assessed and can include specifications, mechanisms, activities, and individuals.
 
* '''Discussion [NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2]:''' Contains discussion from the associated NIST SP 800-171 security requirement. Level 1 aligns with FAR Clause 52.204-21, which focuses on FCI, and the NIST text has been modified, as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1), to reflect this.
for the time period that your company has defined. <br />
* '''Further Discussion:'''
Identifying and controlling physical access devices (e.g., locks, badges, key cards) is just as
** Expands upon the NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 discussion content to provide additional guidance.
 
** Contains examples illustrating application of the requirements. These examples are intended to provide insight but are not intended to be prescriptive of how the requirement must be implemented, nor are they comprehensive of all assessment objectives necessary to achieve the requirement. The assessment objectives met within the example are referenced by letter in a bracket (e.g., [a,d] for objectives “a” and “d”) within the text.
important as monitoring and limiting who is able to physically access certain equipment.
** Examples are written from the perspective of an organization or an employee of an organization implementing solutions or researching approaches to satisfy CMMC requirements. The objective is to put the reader into the role of implementing or maintaining alternatives to satisfy security requirements. Examples are not all-inclusive or prescriptive and do not imply any personal responsibility for complying with CMMC requirements.
 
** Provides potential assessment considerations. These may include common considerations for assessing the requirement and potential questions that may be asked when assessing the objectives.
Physical access devices are only strong protection if you know who has them and what access
* '''Key References:''' Lists the identical basic safeguarding requirement from FAR clause 52.204-21 and the pertinent security requirement from NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2.
 
they allow. Physical access devices can be managed using manual or automatic processes
 
such a list of who is assigned what key, or updating the badge access system as personnel
 
change roles.
 
'''Example 1 <br />
'''Coming back from a meeting, you see the friend of a coworker walking down the hallway
 
near your office where FCI is stored. You know this person well and trust them, but are not
 
sure why they are in the building. You stop to talk, and the person explains that they are
 
meeting a coworker for lunch, but cannot remember where the lunchroom is. You walk the
 
person back to the reception area to get a visitor badge and wait until someone can escort
 
them to the lunchroom [a]. You report this incident, and the company decides to install a
 
badge reader at the main door so visitors cannot enter without an escort [a].  
 
'''Example 2 <br />
'''You and your coworkers like to have friends and family join you for lunch at the office on
 
Fridays. Your small company has just signed a contract with the DoD in which your company
 
will receive FCI and you now need to document who enters and leaves your facility. You work
 
with the reception staff to ensure that all non-employees sign in at the reception area and
 
sign out when they leave [c]. You retain those paper sign-in sheets in a locked filing cabinet
 
for one year. Employees receive badges or key cards that enable tracking and logging access
 
to company facilities.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PE.L1-b.1.ix – Manage Visitors &amp; Physical Access [FCI Data]  
 
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'''Example 3 <br />
'''You are a facility manager. A team member retired today and returns their company keys to  
 
you. The project on which they were working requires  access to areas that contain
 
equipment with FCI. You receive the keys, check your electronic records against the serial
 
numbers on the keys to ensure all have been returned, and mark each key returned [f].  
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''
 
  Are personnel required to accompany visitors to areas in a facility with physical access
 
to organizational systems [a]?
 
 
  Are visitors clearly distinguishable from regular personnel [b]?
 
 
  Is visitor activity monitored (e.g., use of cameras or guards, reviews of secure areas upon
 
visitor departure, review of visitor audit logs) [b]?
 
 
  Are logs of physical access to sensitive areas (both authorized access and visitor access)
 
maintained per retention requirements [c]?
 
 
  Are visitor access records retained for as long as required [c]?
 
 
  Are lists or inventories of physical access devices maintained (e.g., keys, facility badges,
 
key cards) [d]?
 
 
  Is  access to physical access devices  limited  (e.g.,  granted to, and accessible only by,
 
authorized individuals) [e]?
 
 
  Are physical access devices managed (e.g., revoking key card access when necessary,
 
changing locks as needed, maintaining access control devices and systems) [f]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.ix
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.10.3
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.10.4
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.10.5
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SC.L1-b.1.x – Boundary Protection [FCI Data]
 
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System and Communications Protection (SC) <br />
'''SC.L1-B.1.X – BOUNDARY PROTECTION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Monitor, control, and protect organizational communications (i.e., information transmitted
 
or received by organizational  information systems) at the external boundaries and key
 
internal boundaries of the information systems.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#38|25 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
the external system boundary is defined;
 
[b]
 
key internal system boundaries are defined;
 
[c]
 
communications are monitored at the external system boundary;
 
[d]
 
communications are monitored at key internal boundaries;
 
[e]
 
communications are controlled at the external system boundary;
 
[f]
 
communications are controlled at key internal boundaries;
 
[g]
 
communications are protected at the external system boundary; and
 
[h]
 
communications are protected at key internal boundaries.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]25 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System and communications protection policy; procedures addressing
 
boundary protection; system security plan; list of key internal boundaries of the system;
 
system design documentation; boundary protection hardware and software; enterprise
 
security architecture documentation; system audit logs and records; system configuration
 
settings and associated documentation; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities; system developers; personnel with boundary protection responsibilities].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Mechanisms implementing boundary protection capability].
 
 
25
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 53
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SC.L1-b.1.x – Boundary Protection [FCI Data]
 
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'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#39|26]] '''
 
Communications can be monitored, controlled, and protected at boundary components and
 
by restricting or prohibiting interfaces in organizational systems.  Boundary components
 
include gateways, routers, firewalls, guards, network-based malicious code analysis and
 
virtualization systems, or encrypted tunnels implemented within a system security
 
architecture (e.g., routers protecting firewalls or application gateways residing on protected
 
subnetworks).  Restricting or prohibiting interfaces in organizational systems includes
 
restricting external web communications traffic to designated web servers within managed
 
interfaces and prohibiting external traffic that appears to be spoofing internal addresses. <br />
Organizations consider the shared nature of commercial telecommunications services in the
 
implementation of security requirements associated with the use of such services.
 
Commercial telecommunications services are commonly based on network components and
 
consolidated management systems shared by all attached commercial customers and may
 
also include third party-provided access lines and other service elements. Such transmission
 
services may represent sources of increased risk despite contract security provisions.
 
NIST SP 800-41 provides guidance on firewalls and firewall policy.  NIST  SP 800-125B
 
provides guidance on security for virtualization technologies.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Fences, locks, badges, and key cards help keep non-employees out of your physical facilities.
 
Similarly, your company’s IT network or system has boundaries that must be protected.
 
Many companies use a web proxy and a firewall. <br />
When an employee uses a company computer to go to a website, a web proxy makes the
 
request on the user’s behalf, looks at the web request, and decides if it should let the
 
employee go to the website. <br />
A firewall controls access from the inside and outside, protecting valuable information and
 
resources stored on the company’s network. A firewall stops unwanted traffic on the internet
 
from passing through an outside “fence” to the company’s networks and information
 
systems.  Internal boundaries determine where data can flow, for instance a software
 
development environment may have its own boundary controlling, monitoring, and
 
protecting the data that can leave that boundary. <br />
It may be wise to monitor, control, or protect one part of the company network from another.
 
This can also be accomplished  with a firewall  and  limits  the ability of attackers  and
 
disgruntled employees from entering sensitive parts of your internal network and causing
 
damage.
 
'''Example <br />
'''You are setting up the new network with an FCI enclave. You start by sketching out a simple
 
diagram that identifies the external boundary of your network and any internal boundaries
 
that are needed [a,b]. The first piece of equipment you install is the firewall, a device to
 
 
26
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 36
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SC.L1-b.1.x – Boundary Protection [FCI Data]
 
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separate your internal network from the internet. The firewall also has a feature that allows
 
you to block access to potentially malicious websites, and you configure that service as well
 
[a,c,e,g]. Some of your coworkers complain that they cannot get to certain websites [c,e,g].
 
You explain that the new network blocks websites that are known for spreading malware.
 
The firewall sends you a daily digest of blocked activity so that you can monitor the system
 
for attack trends [c,d].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  What are the external system boundary components that make up the entry and exit
 
points for data flow (e.g., firewalls, gateways, cloud service boundaries), behind which all
 
system components that handle regulated data are contained? What are the supporting
 
system components necessary for the protection of regulated data [a]?
 
 
  What are the internal system boundary components that make up the entry and exit
 
points for key internal data flow (e.g., internal firewalls, routers, any devices that can
 
bridge the connection between one segment of the system and another) that separate
 
segments of the internal network  –  including devices that separate internal network
 
segments such as development and production networks as well as a traditional DMZ at
 
the edge of the network [b]?
 
 
  Is data flowing in and out of the external and key internal system boundaries monitored
 
(e.g., connections are logged and able to be reviewed, suspicious traffic generates alerts)
 
[c,d]?
 
 
  Is  data  traversing  the external and internal system boundaries  controlled  such that
 
connections are denied by default and only authorized connections are allowed [e,f]?
 
 
  Is data flowing in and out of the external and key internal system boundaries protected
 
(e.g., applying encryption when required or prudent, tunneling traffic as needed) [g,h]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.x
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.13.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SC.L1-b.1.xi – Public-Access System Separation [FCI Data]
 
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'''SC.L1-B.1.XI – PUBLIC-ACCESS SYSTEM SEPARATION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Implement subnetworks for publicly accessible system components that are physically or
 
logically separated from internal networks.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#41|27 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
publicly accessible system components are identified; and
 
[b]
 
subnetworks for publicly accessible system components are physically or logically
 
separated from internal networks.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]27 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System and communications protection policy; procedures addressing
 
boundary protection; system security plan; list of key internal boundaries of the system;
 
system design documentation; boundary protection hardware and software; system
 
configuration settings and associated documentation; enterprise security architecture
 
documentation; system audit logs and records; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities; system developers; personnel with boundary protection responsibilities].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Mechanisms implementing boundary protection capability].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#41|28]] '''
 
Subnetworks that are physically or logically separated from internal networks are referred
 
to as demilitarized zones (DMZs). DMZs are typically implemented with boundary control
 
devices and techniques that include routers, gateways, firewalls, virtualization, or cloud-
 
based technologies. <br />
NIST SP 800-41 provides guidance on firewalls and firewall policy. SP 800-125B provides
 
guidance on security for virtualization technologies.
 
 
27
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 55
 
28
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, pp. 37-38
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SC.L1-b.1.xi – Public-Access System Separation [FCI Data]
 
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'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Publicly accessible systems should be separated from the internal systems that need to be
 
protected. Internal systems should not be placed on the same network as publicly accessible
 
systems, and access by default from DMZ networks to internal networks should be blocked. <br />
One method of accomplishing this is to create a DMZ network, which enhances security by
 
providing public access to a specific set  of resources while preventing connections from
 
those resources to the rest of the IT environment. Some OSAs may achieve a similar result
 
through the use of a cloud computing environment that is separated from the rest of the
 
company’s infrastructure.
 
'''Example <br />
'''The head of recruiting at your firm wants to launch a website to post job openings and allow
 
the public to download an application form [a]. After some discussion, your team realizes it
 
needs to use a firewall to create a perimeter network  to do this  because your network
 
contains FCI [b]. You host the server separately from the company’s internal network where
 
FCI is stored and make sure the network on which it resides is isolated with the proper
 
firewall rules [b].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are any system components reachable by the public (e.g., internet-facing web servers,
 
VPN gateways, publicly accessible cloud services) [a]?
 
 
  Are  publicly accessible system components on physically or logically separated
 
subnetworks (e.g., isolated subnetworks using separate, dedicated VLAN segments such
 
as DMZs) [b]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.xi
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.13.5
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xii – Flaw Remediation [FCI Data]
 
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System and Information Integrity (SI) <br />
'''SI.L1-B.1.XII – FLAW REMEDIATION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Identify, report, and correct information and information system flaws in a timely manner.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#43|29 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
the time within which to identify system flaws is specified;
 
[b]
 
system flaws are identified within the specified time frame;
 
[c]
 
the time within which to report system flaws is specified;
 
[d]
 
system flaws are reported within the specified time frame;
 
[e]
 
the time within which to correct system flaws is specified; and
 
[f]
 
system flaws are corrected within the specified time frame.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]29 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System and information integrity policy; procedures addressing flaw
 
remediation; procedures addressing configuration management; system security plan; list
 
of flaws and vulnerabilities potentially affecting the system; list of recent security flaw
 
remediation actions performed on the system (e.g., list of installed patches, service packs,
 
hot fixes, and other software updates to correct system flaws); test results from the
 
installation of software and firmware updates to correct system flaws; installation/change
 
control records for security-relevant software and firmware updates; other relevant
 
documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities; personnel installing, configuring, and maintaining the system; personnel
 
with responsibility for flaw remediation; personnel with configuration management
 
responsibility].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for identifying, reporting, and correcting system
 
flaws; organizational process for installing software and firmware updates; mechanisms
 
 
29
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 60
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xii – Flaw Remediation [FCI Data]
 
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supporting or implementing reporting, and correcting system flaws; mechanisms supporting
 
or implementing testing software and firmware updates].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#44|30]] '''
 
Organizations identify systems that are affected by announced software and firmware flaws
 
including potential vulnerabilities resulting from those flaws and report this information to
 
designated personnel with information security responsibilities. Security-relevant updates
 
include patches, service packs, hot fixes, and anti-virus signatures. Organizations address
 
flaws discovered during security assessments, continuous monitoring, incident response
 
activities, and system error handling.  Organizations can take advantage of available
 
resources such as the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) database or Common
 
Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database in remediating flaws discovered in
 
organizational systems. <br />
Organization-defined time periods for updating security-relevant software and firmware
 
may vary based on a variety of factors including the criticality of the update (i.e., severity of
 
the vulnerability related to the discovered flaw). Some types of flaw remediation may require
 
more testing than other types of remediation. NIST SP 800-40 provides guidance on patch
 
management technologies.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
All software and firmware have potential flaws. Many vendors work to remedy those flaws
 
by releasing vulnerability information and updates to their software and firmware. OSAs
 
should have a process to review relevant vendor notifications and updates about problems
 
or weaknesses.  After reviewing the information, the OSA  should  implement a  patch
 
management  process  that allows for software and firmware flaws to be fixed  without
 
adversely affecting the system functionality.  OSAs  should  define the time frames within
 
which flaws are identified, reported, and corrected for all systems.
 
'''Example <br />
'''You know that software vendors typically release patches, service packs, hot fixes, etc. and
 
want to make sure your software that processes FCI is up to date. You develop a policy that
 
requires checking vendor websites for flaw notifications every week [a]. The policy further
 
requires that those flaws be assessed for severity and patched on end-user computers once
 
each week and servers once each month [c,e]. Consistent with that policy, you configure the
 
system to check for updates weekly or daily depending on the criticality of the software [b,e].
 
Your team reviews available updates and implements the applicable ones according to the
 
defined schedule [f].
 
 
30
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, pp. 40-41
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xii – Flaw Remediation [FCI Data]
 
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'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Is the time frame (e.g., a set number of days) within which system flaw identification
 
activities (e.g., vulnerability scans, configuration scans, manual review) must be
 
performed defined and documented [a]?
 
 
  Are system flaws (e.g., vulnerabilities, misconfigurations) identified in accordance with
 
the specified time frame [b]?
 
 
  Is the time frame (e.g., a set number of days dependent on the assessed severity of a flaw)
 
within which system flaws must be corrected defined and documented [e]?
 
 
  Are  system flaws (e.g., applied security patches, made configuration changes, or
 
implemented workarounds or mitigations) corrected within the specified time frame [f]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.xii
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.14.1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xiii – Malicious Code ProTection [FCI Data]
 
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'''SI.L1-B.1.XIII – MALICIOUS CODE PROTECTION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Provide protection from malicious code at appropriate locations within organizational
 
information systems.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#46|31 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
designated locations for malicious code protection are identified; and
 
[b]
 
protection from malicious code at designated locations is provided.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#46|32 ]]'''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System and information integrity policy; configuration management policy
 
and procedures; procedures addressing malicious code protection; records of malicious
 
code protection updates; malicious code protection mechanisms; system security plan;
 
system configuration settings and associated documentation; record of actions initiated by
 
malicious code protection mechanisms in response to malicious code detection; scan results
 
from malicious code protection mechanisms; system design documentation; system audit
 
logs and records; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities; personnel installing, configuring, and maintaining the system; personnel
 
with responsibility for malicious code protection; personnel with configuration management
 
responsibility].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for employing, updating, and configuring
 
malicious code protection mechanisms; organizational process for addressing false positives
 
and resulting potential impact; mechanisms supporting or implementing employing,
 
updating, and configuring malicious code protection mechanisms; mechanisms supporting
 
or implementing malicious code scanning and subsequent actions].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#46|33]] '''
 
Designated [''appropriate''] locations include system entry and exit points which may include
 
firewalls, remote access servers, workstations, electronic mail servers, web servers, proxy
 
servers, notebook computers, and mobile devices. Malicious code includes viruses, worms,
 
 
31
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 61
 
32
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 61-62
 
33
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 41
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xiii – Malicious Code ProTection [FCI Data]
 
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Trojan horses, and spyware.  Malicious code can be encoded in various formats (e.g.,
 
UUENCODE, Unicode), contained within compressed or hidden files, or hidden in files using
 
techniques such as steganography. Malicious code can be inserted into systems in a variety
 
of ways including web accesses, electronic mail, electronic mail attachments, and portable
 
storage  devices.  Malicious code insertions  occur through the exploitation of system
 
vulnerabilities. <br />
Malicious code protection mechanisms include anti-virus signature definitions and
 
reputation-based technologies.  A variety of technologies and methods exist to limit or
 
eliminate the effects of malicious code.  Pervasive configuration management and
 
comprehensive software integrity controls may be effective in preventing execution of
 
unauthorized code. In addition to commercial off-the-shelf software, malicious code may also
 
be present in custom-built software. This could include logic bombs, back doors, and other
 
types of cyber-attacks that could affect organizational missions/business functions.
 
Traditional malicious code protection mechanisms cannot always detect such code. In these
 
situations, organizations rely instead on other safeguards including secure coding practices,
 
configuration management and control, trusted procurement processes, and monitoring
 
practices to help ensure that software does not perform functions other than the functions
 
intended. NIST SP 800-83 provides guidance on malware incident prevention.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Malicious code purposely performs unauthorized activity that undermines the security of an
 
information system. A designated location may be a network device such as a firewall or an
 
end user’s computer. <br />
Malicious code, which can be delivered by a range of means (e.g., email, removable media, or
 
websites), includes the following: <br />
 
  Virus – program designed to cause damage, steal information, change data, send email,
 
show messages, or any combination of these things;
 
 
  Spyware – program designed to secretly gather information about a person’s activity; 
 
 
  Trojan Horse – type of malware made to look like legitimate software and used by cyber
 
criminals to get access to a company’s systems; and
 
 
  Ransomware – type of malware that threatens to publish the victim’s data or perpetually
 
block access to it unless a ransom is paid.
 
Consider use of anti-malware tools to stop or lessen the impact of malicious code.
 
'''Example <br />
'''Your company’s IT team is buying new computers and wants to protect your company’s
 
information from viruses and spyware. The computers will be used to process, store, and
 
transmit FCI.  They  research anti-malware products, select an appropriate solution, and
 
deploy antivirus software on all hosts for which satisfactory antivirus software is available
 
[a,b].
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xiii – Malicious Code ProTection [FCI Data]
 
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'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are system components (e.g., workstations, servers, email gateways, mobile devices) for
 
which malicious code protection must be provided identified and documented [a]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.xiii
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.14.2
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xiv – Update Malicious Code Protection [FCI Data]
 
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'''SI.L1-B.1.XIV – UPDATE MALICIOUS CODE PROTECTION [FCI DATA] '''
 
Update malicious code protection mechanisms when new releases are available.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#49|34 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a] malicious code protection mechanisms are updated when new releases are available.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#49|35 ]]'''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System and information integrity policy; configuration management policy
 
and procedures; procedures addressing malicious code protection; malicious code
 
protection mechanisms; records of malicious code protection updates; system security plan;
 
system design documentation; system configuration settings and associated documentation;
 
scan results from malicious code protection mechanisms; record of actions initiated by
 
malicious code protection mechanisms in response to malicious code detection; system audit
 
logs and records; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities; personnel installing, configuring, and maintaining the system; personnel
 
with responsibility for malicious code protection; personnel with configuration management
 
responsibility].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for employing, updating, and configuring
 
malicious code protection mechanisms; organizational process for addressing false positives
 
and resulting potential impact; mechanisms supporting or implementing malicious code
 
protection mechanisms (including updates and configurations); mechanisms supporting or
 
implementing malicious code scanning and subsequent actions].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 REV. 2][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#49|36]] '''
 
Malicious code protection mechanisms include anti-virus signature definitions and
 
reputation-based technologies.  A variety of technologies and methods exist to limit or
 
eliminate the effects of malicious code.  Pervasive configuration management and
 
comprehensive software integrity controls may be effective in preventing execution of
 
unauthorized code. In addition to commercial off-the-shelf software, malicious code may also
 
be present in custom-built software. This could include logic bombs, back doors, and other
 
 
34
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 62
 
35
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 62-63
 
36
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, pp 41-42
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xiv – Update Malicious Code Protection [FCI Data]
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
46
 
 
types of cyber-attacks that could affect organizational missions/business functions.
 
Traditional malicious code protection mechanisms cannot always detect such code. In these
 
situations, organizations rely instead on other safeguards including secure coding practices,
 
configuration management and control, trusted procurement processes, and monitoring
 
practices to help ensure that software does not perform functions other than the functions
 
intended.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Malware changes on an hourly or daily basis, and it is important to update detection and
 
protection mechanisms frequently to maintain the effectiveness of the protection.
 
'''Example <br />
'''You  have installed anti-malware software to protect a computer that stores FCI from
 
malicious code. Knowing that malware evolves rapidly, you configure the software to
 
automatically check for malware definition updates every day and update as needed [a].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Is there a defined frequency at which malicious code protection mechanisms must be
 
updated (e.g., frequency of automatic updates or manual processes) [a]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.xiv
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.14.4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xv – System &amp; File Scanning [FCI Data]
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
47
 
 
'''SI.L1-B.1.XV – SYSTEM &amp; FILE SCANNING [FCI DATA] '''
 
Perform periodic scans of the information system and real-time scans of files from external
 
sources as files are downloaded, opened, or executed.
 
'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES [NIST SP 800-171A][[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#51|37 ]]'''
 
Determine if: <br />
[a]
 
the frequency for malicious code scans is defined;
 
[b]
 
malicious code scans are performed with the defined frequency; and
 
[c]
 
real-time malicious code scans of files from external sources as files are
 
downloaded, opened, or executed are performed.
 
'''POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AND OBJECTS [NIST SP 800-171A]37 '''
 
'''Examine <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System and information integrity policy; configuration management policy
 
and procedures; procedures addressing malicious code protection; malicious code
 
protection mechanisms; records of malicious code protection updates; system security plan;
 
system design documentation; system configuration settings and associated documentation;
 
scan results from malicious code protection mechanisms; record of actions initiated by
 
malicious code protection mechanisms in response to malicious code detection; system audit
 
logs and records; other relevant documents or records].
 
'''Interview <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security
 
responsibilities; personnel installing, configuring, and maintaining the system; personnel
 
with responsibility for malicious code protection; personnel with configuration management
 
responsibility].
 
'''Test <br />
'''[SELECT FROM: Organizational processes for employing, updating, and configuring
 
malicious code protection mechanisms; organizational process for addressing false positives
 
and resulting potential impact; mechanisms supporting or implementing malicious code
 
protection mechanisms (including updates and configurations); mechanisms supporting or
 
implementing malicious code scanning and subsequent actions].
 
'''DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-17]1 REV. 2[[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#51|38]] '''
 
Periodic scans of organizational systems and real-time scans of files from external sources
 
can detect malicious code. Malicious code can be encoded in various formats (e.g.,
 
 
37
 
NIST SP 800-171A, p. 63
 
38
 
NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, p. 42
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SI.L1-b.1.xv – System &amp; File Scanning [FCI Data]
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
48
 
 
UUENCODE, Unicode), contained within compressed or hidden files, or hidden in files using
 
techniques such as steganography. Malicious code can be inserted into systems in a variety
 
of ways including web accesses, electronic mail, electronic mail attachments, and portable
 
storage devices. Malicious code insertions occur through the exploitation of system
 
vulnerabilities.
 
'''FURTHER DISCUSSION '''
 
Consider use of anti-malware software to scan for viruses in your computer systems and
 
determine how often scans are conducted. Real-time scans look at the system whenever files
 
are downloaded, opened, and saved.  Periodic scans check previously saved files against
 
updated malware information. Anti-malware software should be installed, run, and updated
 
on all hosts for which satisfactory antivirus software is available.
 
'''Example <br />
'''Your company transmits FCI over email. You work with your company’s email provider to
 
enable enhanced protections that will scan all attachments to identify and quarantine those
 
that may be harmful prior to a user opening them [c]. In addition, you configure antivirus
 
software on each computer to scan for malicious code every day [a,b]. The software also
 
scans files that are downloaded or copied from removable media such as USB drives. It
 
quarantines any suspicious files and notifies the security team [c].
 
'''Potential Assessment Considerations <br />
'''•
 
  Are files from media (e.g., USB drives, CD-ROM) included in the definition of external
 
sources and are they being scanned [c]?
 
'''KEY REFERENCES '''
 
 
  FAR Clause 52.204-21 b.1.xv
 
 
  NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.14.5
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Appendix A – Acronyms and Abbreviations
 
CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 | Version 2.13
 
49
 
 
Appendix A – Acronyms and Abbreviations
 
AC
 
Access Control
 
CD-ROM
 
Compact Disk Read-Only Memory
 
CFR
 
Code of Federal Regulations
 
CMMC
 
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
 
CUI
 
Controlled Unclassified Information
 
CVE
 
Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures
 
CWE
 
Common Weakness Enumeration
 
DFARS
 
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
 
DMZ
 
Demilitarized Zone
 
DoD
 
Department of Defense
 
ESP
 
External Service Provider
 
FAR
 
Federal Acquisition Regulation
 
FCI
 
Federal Contract Information
 
IT
 
Information Technology
 
NIST
 
National Institute of Standards and Technology
 
OSA
 
Organization Seeking Assessment
 
PIV
 
Personal Identity Verification
 
SC
 
System and Communications Protection
 
SI
 
System and Information Integrity
 
SP
 
Special Publication
 
SPRS
 
Supplier Performance Risk System
 
USB
 
Universal Serial Bus
 
UUENCODE  Unix-to-Unix Encode
 
VLAN
 
Virtual Local Area Network
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
= Document Outline =
 
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#5|Introduction]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#6|Assessment and Compliance]]
** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#6|Assessment Scope]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#7|CMMC-Custom Terms]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#9|Assessment Criteria and Methodology]]
** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#10|Criteria]]
** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#10|Methodology]]
*** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#11|Who Is Interviewed]]
*** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#11|What Is Examined]]
*** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#11|What Is Tested]]
** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#12|Assessment Findings]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#14|Requirement Descriptions]]
** [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#14|Introduction]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#16|Access Control (AC)]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#26|Identification and Authentication (IA)]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#31|Media Protection (MP)]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#33|Physical Protection (PE)]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#38|System and Communications Protection (SC)]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#43|System and Information Integrity (SI)]]
* [[3912f0904f8f7d41c23a95c5f4ab1dc9d2769d6e.html#53|Appendix A – Acronyms and Abbreviations]]
 
 
-----
 
Original source: https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/AssessmentGuideL1v2.pdf


== Access Control (AC) ==
== Access Control (AC) ==
=== Level 1 AC Practices ===
=== AC.L1-B.1.I – Authorized Access Control [FCI Data] ===
==== AC.L1-3.1.1 - AUTHORIZED ACCESS CONTROL ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,130: Line 150:
: [f] system access is limited to authorized devices (including other systems).
: [f] system access is limited to authorized devices (including other systems).
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_AC.L2-3.1.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_AC.L1-3.1.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== AC.L1-3.1.2 - TRANSACTION & FUNCTION CONTROL ====
=== AC.L1-B.1.II – Transaction & Function Control [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Limit information system access to the types of transactions and functions that authorized users are permitted to execute.
Limit information system access to the types of transactions and functions that authorized users are permitted to execute.
|-
|-
|'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES'''
|'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES'''
Line 4,144: Line 162:
: [b] system access is limited to the defined types of transactions and functions for authorized users.
: [b] system access is limited to the defined types of transactions and functions for authorized users.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_AC.L2-3.1.2_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_AC.L1-3.1.2_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== AC.L1-3.1.20 - EXTERNAL CONNECTIONS ====
=== AC.L1-B.1.III – External Connections [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,160: Line 176:
: [d] the use of external systems is verified;
: [d] the use of external systems is verified;
: [e] connections to external systems are controlled/limited; and
: [e] connections to external systems are controlled/limited; and
: [f] the use of external systems is controlled/limited.
: [f] the use of external systems is controlled/limited.
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''1'''
|-
|-
|[[Practice_AC.L1-3.1.20_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|[[Practice_AC.L2-3.1.20_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== AC.L1-3.1.22 - CONTROL PUBLIC INFORMATION ====
=== AC.L1-B.1.IV – Control Public Information [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,179: Line 193:
: [e] mechanisms are in place to remove and address improper posting of FCI.
: [e] mechanisms are in place to remove and address improper posting of FCI.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''1'''
|[[Practice_AC.L2-3.1.22_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_AC.L1-3.1.22_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


== Identification and Authentication (IA) ==
== Identification and Authentication (IA) ==
=== Level 1 IA Practices ===
=== IA.L1-B.1.V Identification [FCI Data] ===
==== IA.L1-3.5.1 IDENTIFICATION ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,196: Line 207:
: [c] devices accessing the system are identified.
: [c] devices accessing the system are identified.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_IA.L2-3.5.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_IA.L1-3.5.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== IA.L1-3.5.2 AUTHENTICATION ====
=== IA.L1-B.1.VI Authentication [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,211: Line 220:
: [c] the identity of each device accessing or connecting to the system is authenticated or verified as a prerequisite to system access.
: [c] the identity of each device accessing or connecting to the system is authenticated or verified as a prerequisite to system access.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_IA.L2-3.5.2_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_IA.L1-3.5.2_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


== Media Protection (MP) ==
== Media Protection (MP) ==
=== Level 1 MP Practices ===
=== MP.L1-B.1.VII Media Disposal [FCI Data] ===
==== MP.L1-3.8.3 MEDIA DISPOSAL ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,227: Line 233:
: [b] system media containing FCI is sanitized before it is released for reuse.
: [b] system media containing FCI is sanitized before it is released for reuse.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_MP.L2-3.8.3_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_MP.L1-3.8.3_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


== Physical Protection (PE) ==
== Physical Protection (PE) ==
=== Level 1 PE Practices ===
=== PE.L1-B.1.VIII Limit Physical Access [FCI Data] ===
==== PE.L1-3.10.1 LIMIT PHYSICAL ACCESS ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,245: Line 248:
: [d] physical access to operating environments is limited to authorized.
: [d] physical access to operating environments is limited to authorized.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_PE.L2-3.10.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_PE.L1-3.10.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== PE.L1-3.10.3 ESCORT VISITORS ====
=== PE.L1-B.1.IX Manage Visitors & Physical Access [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,259: Line 260:
: [b] visitor activity is monitored.
: [b] visitor activity is monitored.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''1'''
|[[Practice_PE.L2-3.10.3_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_PE.L1-3.10.3_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}
==== PE.L1-3.10.4 – PHYSICAL ACCESS LOGS ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,272: Line 269:
: [a] audit logs of physical access are maintained.
: [a] audit logs of physical access are maintained.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''1'''
|[[Practice_PE.L2-3.10.4_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_PE.L1-3.10.4_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}
==== PE.L1-3.10.5 – MANAGE PHYSICAL ACCESS ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,287: Line 280:
: [c] physical access devices are managed.
: [c] physical access devices are managed.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''1'''
|[[Practice_PE.L2-3.10.5_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_PE.L1-3.10.5_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


== System and Communications Protection (SC) ==
== System and Communications Protection (SC) ==
=== Level 1 SC Practices ===
=== SC.L1-B.1.X Boundary Protection [FCI Data] ===
==== SC.L1-3.13.1 BOUNDARY PROTECTION ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,311: Line 301:
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|-
|-
|[[Practice_SC.L1-3.13.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|[[Practice_SC.L2-3.13.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== SC.L1-3.13.5 PUBLIC-ACCESS SYSTEM SEPARATION ====
=== SC.L1-B.1.XI Public-Access System Separation [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,323: Line 313:
: [b] subnetworks for publicly accessible system components are physically or logically separated from internal networks.
: [b] subnetworks for publicly accessible system components are physically or logically separated from internal networks.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_SC.L2-3.13.5_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_SC.L1-3.13.5_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


== System and Information Integrity (SI) ==
== System and Information Integrity (SI) ==
=== Level 1 SI Practices ===
=== SI.L1-B.1.XII Flaw Remediation [FCI Data] ===
==== SI.L1-3.14.1 FLAW REMEDIATION ====
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Identify, report, and correct information and information system flaws in a timely manner.
Identify, report, and correct information and information system flaws in a timely manner.
|-
|-
|ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES'''
|'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES'''
: [a] the time within which to identify system flaws is specified;
: [a] the time within which to identify system flaws is specified;
: [b] system flaws are identified within the specified time frame;
: [b] system flaws are identified within the specified time frame;
Line 4,343: Line 330:
: [f] system flaws are corrected within the specified time frame.
: [f] system flaws are corrected within the specified time frame.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_SI.L2-3.14.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_SI.L1-3.14.1_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== SI.L1-3.14.2 MALICIOUS CODE PROTECTION ====
=== SI.L1-B.1.XIII Malicious Code ProTection [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,357: Line 342:
: [b] protection from malicious code at designated locations is provided.
: [b] protection from malicious code at designated locations is provided.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_SI.L2-3.14.2_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_SI.L1-3.14.2_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== SI.L1-3.14.4 UPDATE MALICIOUS CODE PROTECTION ====
=== SI.L1-B.1.XIV Update Malicious Code Protection [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Update malicious code protection mechanisms when new releases are available.
Update malicious code protection mechanisms when new releases are available.
|-
|-
|ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES'''
|'''ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES'''
: [a] malicious code protection mechanisms are updated when new releases are available.
: [a] malicious code protection mechanisms are updated when new releases are available.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''5'''
|[[Practice_SI.L2-3.14.4_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|-
|[[Practice_SI.L1-3.14.4_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
|}


==== SI.L1-3.14.5 SYSTEM & FILE SCANNING ====
=== SI.L1-B.1.XV System & File Scanning [FCI Data] ===
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
|'''SECURITY REQUIREMENT'''
Line 4,385: Line 366:
: [c] real-time malicious code scans of files from external sources as files are downloaded, opened, or executed are performed.
: [c] real-time malicious code scans of files from external sources as files are downloaded, opened, or executed are performed.
|-
|-
|[[DoD_Assessment_Methodology|DoD Assessment Scoring Value]]: '''3'''
|[[Practice_SI.L2-3.14.5_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|}
 
== Appendix A – Acronyms and Abbreviations ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|| AC || Access Control
|-
|| CD-ROM || Compact Disk Read-Only Memory
|-
|| CFR || Code of Federal Regulations
|-
|| CMMC || Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
|-
|| CUI || Controlled Unclassified Information
|-
|| CVE || Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures
|-
|| CWE || Common Weakness Enumeration
|-
|| DFARS || Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
|-
|| DMZ || Demilitarized Zone
|-
|| DoD || Department of Defense
|-
|| ESP || External Service Provider
|-
|| FAR || Federal Acquisition Regulation
|-
|| FCI || Federal Contract Information
|-
|| IT || Information Technology
|-
|| NIST || National Institute of Standards and Technology
|-
|| OSA || Organization Seeking Assessment
|-
|| PIV || Personal Identity Verification
|-
|| SC || System and Communications Protection
|-
|| SI || System and Information Integrity
|-
|| SP || Special Publication
|-
|| SPRS || Supplier Performance Risk System
|-
|| USB || Universal Serial Bus
|-
|| UUENCODE || Unix-to-Unix Encode
|-
|-
|[[Practice_SI.L1-3.14.5_Details|More Practice Details...]]
|| VLAN || Virtual Local Area Network
|}
|}

Latest revision as of 04:17, 19 March 2025

Source of Reference: The official CMMC Level 1 Self-Assessment Guide Version 2.13, September 2024 from the Department of Defense Chief Information Officer (DoD CIO).

For inquiries and reporting errors on this wiki, please contact us. Thank you.

NOTICES

The contents of this document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or departmental policies.

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.

Introduction

This document provides guidance in the preparation for and execution of a Level 1 self-assessment under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program as set forth in section 170.15 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Guidance for conducting a Level 2 self-assessment or certification assessment can be found in CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 2. Guidance for conducting a Level 3 certification assessment can be found in CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 3. More details on the CMMC Model can be found in CMMC Model Overview.

Level 1 focuses on the protection of Federal Contract Information (FCI), which is defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 and 48 CFR § 4.1901:

Federal contract information means information, not intended for public release, that is provided by or generated for the Government under a contract to develop or deliver a product or service to the Government, but not including information provided by the Government to the public (such as on public websites) or simple transactional information, such as necessary to process payments.

Level 1 is comprised of the 15 basic safeguarding requirements specified in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.204-21.

Purpose and Audience

This guide is intended for Organizations Seeking Assessment (OSAs), cybersecurity professionals, and individuals and companies that support CMMC efforts. This document can be used as part of preparation for and conducting a Level 1 self-assessment.

Document Organization

This document is organized into the following sections:

  • Assessment and Compliance: provides an overview of the Level 1 self-assessment process set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15, describes ways of documenting compliance, and provides guidance regarding OSA size and the self-assessment scope requirements set forth in 32 CFR § 170.19.
  • CMMC-Custom Terms: incorporates definitions from 32 CFR § 170.4 and definitions included by reference from 32 CFR § 170.2, and provides clarification of the intent and scope of custom terms as used in the context of CMMC.
  • Assessment Criteria and Methodology: provides guidance on criteria and methodology (i.e., interview, examine, and test) that may be employed during a Level 1 self-assessment, as well as on assessment findings.
  • Requirement Descriptions: provides guidance specific to each Level 1 security requirement.

Assessment and Compliance

Level 1 self-assessment requirements are set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15. The OSA will assess its own contractor information system(s) to determine if it meet all the basic safeguarding requirements for FCI specified in FAR Clause 52.204-21. OSAs should use the self-assessment methods as described in 32 CFR § 170.15.

Level 1 requirements may apply to an entire enterprise infrastructure or to a particular enclave(s), depending upon where the FCI will be processed, stored, or transmitted.

OSAs can choose to perform the annual self-assessment internally or engage a third party to assist. Use of a third party to assist is still considered a self-assessment and does not result in a certification. The primary result of a self-assessment is the submission of Level 1 compliance results into the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) and a self-assessment report, which contains the findings associated with the self- assessment.

Assessment Scope

Prior to conducting a Level 1 self-assessment, the OSA must specify the CMMC Assessment Scope as defined in 32 CFR § 170.19(a). The CMMC Assessment Scope identifies which assets within the OSA’s environment will be assessed and the details of the self-assessment. In accordance with §170.19, for a Level 1 self-assessment, the assets that process, store, or transmit FCI are considered in-scope and should be assessed against the Level 1 requirements. See the CMMC Scoping Guide – Level 1 document for additional information.

CMMC-Custom Terms

The CMMC Program has custom terms that align with program requirements. Although some terms may have other definitions in open forums, it is important to understand these terms as they apply to the CMMC Program.

The custom terms associated with Level 1 are:

  • Assessment: As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 means the testing or evaluation of security controls to determine the extent to which the controls are implemented correctly, operating as intended, and producing the desired outcome with respect to meeting the security requirements for an information system or organization, as defined in 32 CFR § 170.15 to 32 CFR § 170.18.
    • Level 1 self-assessment is the term for the activity performed by an OSA to evaluate its own information system, when seeking a CMMC Status of Final Level 1 (Self).
  • Assessment Objective: A set of determination statements that, taken together, expresses the desired outcome for the assessment of a security requirement. Successful implementation of the corresponding CMMC security requirement requires meeting all applicable assessment objectives defined in NIST SP 800–171A or NIST SP 800-172A.
  • Asset: An item of value to stakeholders. An asset may be tangible (e.g., a physical item such as hardware, firmware, computing platform, network device, or other technology component) or intangible (e.g., humans, data, information, software, capability, function, service, trademark, copyright, patent, intellectual property, image, or reputation). The value of an asset is determined by stakeholders in consideration of loss concerns across the entire system life cycle. Such concerns include but are not limited to business or mission concerns, as defined in NIST SP 800-160 Rev 1.
  • CMMC Status: As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 is the result of meeting or exceeding the minimum required score for the corresponding assessment. The CMMC Status of an OSA information system is officially stored in SPRS and additionally presented on a Certificate of CMMC Status, if the assessment was conducted by a C3PAO or DCMA DIBCAC.
    • Final Level 1 (Self) is defined in § 170.15(c)(1). To achieve a CMMC Status of Final Level 1 (Self) the OSA must conduct a Level 1 self-assessment scored in accordance with the CMMC Scoring Methodology described in § 170.24. The Level 1 self-assessment must be performed in accordance with the Level 1 scope requirements set forth in § 170.19(a) and (b). In instances where an objective addresses CUI, the term FCI should be substituted for CUI.
  • Component: A discrete identifiable information technology asset that represents a building block of a system and may include hardware, software, and firmware[1]. A component is one type of asset.
  • Enduring Exception: A special circumstance or system where remediation and full compliance with CMMC security requirements is not feasible. Examples include systems required to replicate the configuration of ‘fielded’ systems, medical devices, test equipment, OT, and IoT. No operational plan of action is required but the circumstance must be documented within a system security plan. Specialized Assets and GFE may be Enduring Exceptions.
  • Information System (IS): A discrete set of information resources organized for the collection, processing, maintenance, use, sharing, dissemination, or disposition of information [NIST 800-171 Rev. 2]. An IS is one type of asset.
  • Monitoring: Continual checking, supervising, critically observing, or determining the status in order to identify change from the performance level required or expected [NIST SP 800-160 Vol 1].
  • Operational plan of action: As used in security requirement CA.L2-3.12.2, means the formal artifact which identifies temporary vulnerabilities and temporary deficiencies in implementation of requirements and documents how and when they will be mitigated, corrected, or eliminated. The OSA defines the format (e.g., document, spreadsheet, database) and specific content of its operational plan of action. An operational plan of action is not the same as a POA&M associated with an assessment.
  • Organization-Defined: As determined by the OSA being assessed except as defined in the case of Organization-Defined Parameter (ODP). This can be applied to a frequency or rate at which something occurs within a given time period, or it could be associated with describing the configuration of an OSA’s solution.
  • Temporary deficiency: As defined in 32 CFR § 170.4 means a condition where remediation of a discovered deficiency is feasible and a known fix is available or is in process. The deficiency must be documented in an operational plan of action. A temporary deficiency is not based on an ‘in progress’ initial implementation of a CMMC security requirement but arises after implementation. A temporary deficiency may apply during the initial implementation of a security requirement if, during roll-out, specific issues with a very limited subset of equipment is discovered that must be separately addressed. There is no standard duration for which a temporary deficiency may be active. For example, FIPS-validated cryptography that requires a patch and the patched version is no longer the validated version may be a temporary deficiency.

Assessment Criteria and Methodology

This CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 1 provides guidance regarding the assessment procedures required by 32 CFR § 170.15, which requires the Level 1 self-assessment to be performed using the objectives defined in NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171A[2]. NIST SP 800-171A Section 2.1 says the following:

An assessment procedure consists of an assessment objective and a set of potential assessment methods and assessment objects that can be used to conduct the assessment. Each assessment objective includes a determination statement related to the requirement that is the subject of the assessment. The determination statements are linked to the content of the requirement to ensure traceability of the assessment results to the requirements. The application of an assessment procedure to a requirement produces assessment findings. These findings reflect, or are subsequently used, to help determine if the requirement has been satisfied.

Assessment objects identify the specific items being assessed and can include specifications, mechanisms, activities, and individuals.

  • Specifications are the document-based artifacts (e.g., policies, procedures, security plans, security requirements, functional specifications, and architectural designs) associated with a system.
  • Mechanisms are the specific hardware, software, or firmware safeguards employed within a system.
  • Activities are the protection-related actions supporting a system that involve people (e.g., conducting system backup operations, exercising a contingency plan, and monitoring network traffic).
  • Individuals, or groups of individuals, are people applying the specifications, mechanisms, or activities described above.

The assessment methods define the nature and the extent of the assessor’s actions. The methods include examine, interview, and test.

  • The examine method is the process of reviewing, inspecting, observing, studying, or analyzing assessment objects (i.e., specifications, mechanisms, activities). The purpose of the examine method is to facilitate understanding, achieve clarification, or obtain evidence.
  • The interview method is the process of holding discussions with individuals or groups of individuals to facilitate understanding, achieve clarification, or obtain evidence.
  • And finally, the test method is the process of exercising assessment objects (i.e., activities, mechanisms) under specified conditions to compare actual with expected behavior.
In all three assessment methods, the results are used in making specific determinations called for in the determination statements and thereby achieving the objectives for the assessment procedure.

The guidance specified in NIST SP 800-171A focuses on Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Since Level 1 focuses on safeguarding FCI, the applicable self-assessment objectives for Level 1 are modified to address FCI rather than CUI as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1)(i). Where CUI is noted in a NIST SP 800-171A assessment objective, [FCI] has been substituted in the Level 1 objective description. Level 1 security requirement descriptions align with FAR Clause 52.204-21.

Criteria

Assessment objectives are provided for each Level 1 requirement and are based on existing criteria in NIST SP 800-171A modified for FCI rather than CUI as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1)(i). The criteria are authoritative and provide the basis for the self-assessment of a requirement.

Methodology

To verify and validate that an OSA is meeting CMMC requirements, evidence needs to exist demonstrating that the OSA has fulfilled the objectives of the Level 1 requirements. Because different self-assessment objectives can be met in different ways (e.g., through documentation, computer configuration, network configuration, or training), a variety of techniques may be used to determine if the OSA meets the Level 1 requirements, including any of the three assessment methods from NIST SP 800-171A.

Follow the guidance in NIST SP 800-171A when determining which assessment methods to use:

Organizations [OSAs] are not expected to employ all assessment methods and objects contained within the assessment procedures identified in this publication. Rather, organizations have the flexibility to determine the level of effort needed and the assurance required for an assessment (e.g., which assessment methods and assessment objects are deemed to be the most useful in obtaining the desired results). This determination is made based on how the organization can accomplish the assessment objectives in the most cost-effective manner and with sufficient confidence to support the determination that the [FCI] requirements have been satisfied.

For more detailed information on assessment methods, see NIST SP 800-171A Appendix D.

Who Is Interviewed

Interviews of applicable staff (possibly at different organizational levels) may provide information to help an entity determine if Level 1 security requirements have been implemented, as well as if adequate resourcing, training, and planning have occurred for individuals to implement the security requirements.

What Is Examined

Examination includes reviewing, inspecting, observing, studying, or analyzing assessment objects. The objects can be documents, mechanisms, or activities.

For some security requirements, review of documentation may assist an entity in determining if the assessment objectives have been met. Interviews with staff may help identify relevant documents. As set forth in 32 CFR § 170.24, documents need to be in their final forms; drafts of policies or documentation are not eligible to be used as evidence because they are not yet official and still subject to change. Common types of documents that may be used as evidence include:

  • policy, process, and procedure documents;
  • training materials;
  • plans and planning documents; and
  • system, network, and data flow diagrams.

This list of documents is not exhaustive or prescriptive. An OSA may not have these specific documents, and other documents may be reviewed.

In other cases, the security requirement is best self-assessed by observing that safeguards are in place by viewing hardware, associated configuration information, or observing staff following a process.

What Is Tested

Testing is an important part of the self-assessment process. Interviews provide information about what the OSA staff believe to be true, documentation provides evidence of implementing policies and procedures, and testing demonstrates what has or has not been done. For example, OSA staff may talk about how users are identified, documentation may provide details on how users are identified, but seeing a demonstration of identifying users provides evidence that the requirement is met. Not all security requirements utilize testing to allow an entity to determine if whether the assessment objective has been met.

Assessment Findings

The self-assessment of a CMMC requirement results in one of three possible findings: MET, NOT MET, or NOT APPLICABLE as defined in 32 CFR § 170.24. To demonstrate Level 1 compliance, the OSA will need a finding of MET or NOT APPLICABLE on all Level 1 security requirements.

  • MET: All applicable objectives for the security requirement are satisfied based on evidence. All evidence must be in final form and not draft. Unacceptable forms of evidence include working papers, drafts, and unofficial or unapproved policies. For each security requirement marked MET, it is best practice to record statements that indicate the response conforms to all objectives and document the appropriate evidence to support the response.
    • Enduring Exceptions when described, along with any mitigations, in the system security plan shall be assessed as MET.
    • Temporary deficiencies that are appropriately addressed in operational plans of action (i.e., include deficiency reviews, milestones, and show progress towards the implementation of corrections to reduce or eliminate identified vulnerabilities) shall be assessed as MET.
  • NOT MET: One or more objectives of the security requirement is not satisfied. For each security requirement marked NOT MET, it is best practice to record statements that explain why and document the appropriate evidence showing that the OSA does not conform fully to all of the objectives.
  • NOT APPLICABLE (N/A): A security requirement and/or objective do not apply at the time of the assessment. For each security requirement marked N/A, it is best practice to record a statement that explains why the requirement does not apply to the OSA. For example, SC.L1-b.1.xi might be N/A if there are no publicly accessible systems within the CMMC Assessment Scope. During an assessment, an assessment objective assessed as N/A is equivalent to the same assessment objective being assessed as MET.

Each assessment objective in NIST SP 800-171A must yield a finding of MET or NOT APPLICABLE in order for the overall security requirement to be scored as MET. Assessors exercise judgment in determining when sufficient and adequate evidence has been presented to make an assessment finding.

CMMC assessments are conducted and results are captured at the assessment objective level. One NOT MET Assessment Objective results in a failure of the entire security requirement.

A security requirement can be applicable even when assessment objectives included in the security requirement are scored N/A. The security requirement is NOT MET when one or more applicable assessment objectives is NOT MET.

Satisfaction of security requirements may be accomplished by other parts of the enterprise or an External Service Provider (ESP), as defined in 32 CFR § 170.4. A security requirement is considered MET if adequate evidence is provided that the enterprise or ESP implements the requirement objectives. An ESP may be external people, technology, or facilities that the OSA uses, including cloud service providers, managed service providers, managed security service providers, or cybersecurity-as-a-service providers.

Requirement Descriptions

Introduction

This section provides detailed information and guidance for assessing each Level 1 security requirement. The section is organized first by domain and then by individual security requirement. Each security requirement description contains the following elements as described in 32 CFR § 170.14(c):

  • Requirement Number, Name, and Statement: Headed by the requirement identification number in the format, DD.L#-REQ (e.g., AC.L1-b.1.i); followed by the requirement short name identifier, meant to be used for quick reference only; and finally followed by the complete CMMC security requirement statement.
  • Assessment Objectives [NIST SP 800-171A]: Identifies the specific set of objectives that must be met to receive MET for the requirement as defined in NIST SP 800-171A.
  • Potential Assessment Methods and Objects [NIST SP 800-171A]: Describes the nature and the extent of the self-assessment actions as set forth in NIST SP 800-171A. The methods include examine, interview, and test. Self-assessment objects identify the items being assessed and can include specifications, mechanisms, activities, and individuals.
  • Discussion [NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2]: Contains discussion from the associated NIST SP 800-171 security requirement. Level 1 aligns with FAR Clause 52.204-21, which focuses on FCI, and the NIST text has been modified, as set forth in 32 CFR § 170.15(c)(1), to reflect this.
  • Further Discussion:
    • Expands upon the NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 discussion content to provide additional guidance.
    • Contains examples illustrating application of the requirements. These examples are intended to provide insight but are not intended to be prescriptive of how the requirement must be implemented, nor are they comprehensive of all assessment objectives necessary to achieve the requirement. The assessment objectives met within the example are referenced by letter in a bracket (e.g., [a,d] for objectives “a” and “d”) within the text.
    • Examples are written from the perspective of an organization or an employee of an organization implementing solutions or researching approaches to satisfy CMMC requirements. The objective is to put the reader into the role of implementing or maintaining alternatives to satisfy security requirements. Examples are not all-inclusive or prescriptive and do not imply any personal responsibility for complying with CMMC requirements.
    • Provides potential assessment considerations. These may include common considerations for assessing the requirement and potential questions that may be asked when assessing the objectives.
  • Key References: Lists the identical basic safeguarding requirement from FAR clause 52.204-21 and the pertinent security requirement from NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2.

Access Control (AC)

AC.L1-B.1.I – Authorized Access Control [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Limit information system access to authorized users, processes acting on behalf of authorized users, or devices (including other information systems).

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] authorized users are identified;
[b] processes acting on behalf of authorized users are identified;
[c] devices (and other systems) authorized to connect to the system are identified;
[d] system access is limited to authorized users;
[e] system access is limited to processes acting on behalf of authorized users; and
[f] system access is limited to authorized devices (including other systems).
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AC.L1-B.1.II – Transaction & Function Control [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Limit information system access to the types of transactions and functions that authorized users are permitted to execute.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] the types of transactions and functions that authorized users are permitted to execute are defined; and
[b] system access is limited to the defined types of transactions and functions for authorized users.
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AC.L1-B.1.III – External Connections [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Verify and control/limit connections to and use of external information systems.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] connections to external systems are identified;
[b] the use of external systems is identified;
[c] connections to external systems are verified;
[d] the use of external systems is verified;
[e] connections to external systems are controlled/limited; and
[f] the use of external systems is controlled/limited.
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AC.L1-B.1.IV – Control Public Information [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Control information posted or processed on publicly accessible information systems.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] individuals authorized to post or process information on publicly accessible systems are identified;
[b] procedures to ensure FCI is not posted or processed on publicly accessible systems are identified;
[c] a review process is in place prior to posting of any content to publicly accessible systems;
[d] content on publicly accessible systems is reviewed to ensure that it does not include FCI; and
[e] mechanisms are in place to remove and address improper posting of FCI.
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Identification and Authentication (IA)

IA.L1-B.1.V – Identification [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Identify information system users, processes acting on behalf of users, or devices.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] system users are identified;
[b] processes acting on behalf of users are identified; and
[c] devices accessing the system are identified.
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IA.L1-B.1.VI – Authentication [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Authenticate (or verify) the identities of those users, processes, or devices, as a prerequisite to allowing access to organizational information systems.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] the identity of each user is authenticated or verified as a prerequisite to system access;
[b] the identity of each process acting on behalf of a user is authenticated or verified as a prerequisite to system access; and
[c] the identity of each device accessing or connecting to the system is authenticated or verified as a prerequisite to system access.
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Media Protection (MP)

MP.L1-B.1.VII – Media Disposal [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Sanitize or destroy information system media containing Federal Contract Information before disposal or release for reuse.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] system media containing FCI is sanitized or destroyed before disposal; and
[b] system media containing FCI is sanitized before it is released for reuse.
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Physical Protection (PE)

PE.L1-B.1.VIII – Limit Physical Access [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Limit physical access to organizational information systems, equipment, and the respective operating environments to authorized individuals.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] authorized individuals allowed physical access are identified;
[b] physical access to organizational systems is limited to authorized individuals;
[c] physical access to equipment is limited to authorized individuals; and
[d] physical access to operating environments is limited to authorized.
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PE.L1-B.1.IX – Manage Visitors & Physical Access [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Escort visitors and monitor visitor activity.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] visitors are escorted; and
[b] visitor activity is monitored.
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SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Maintain audit logs of physical access.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] audit logs of physical access are maintained.
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SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Control and manage physical access devices.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] physical access devices are identified;
[b] physical access devices are controlled; and
[c] physical access devices are managed.
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System and Communications Protection (SC)

SC.L1-B.1.X – Boundary Protection [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Monitor, control, and protect organizational communications (i.e., information transmitted or received by organizational information systems) at the external boundaries and key internal boundaries of the information systems.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] the external system boundary is defined;
[b] key internal system boundaries are defined;
[c] communications are monitored at the external system boundary;
[d] communications are monitored at key internal boundaries;
[e] communications are controlled at the external system boundary;
[f] communications are controlled at key internal boundaries;
[g] communications are protected at the external system boundary; and
[h] communications are protected at key internal boundaries.
DoD Assessment Scoring Value: 5
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SC.L1-B.1.XI – Public-Access System Separation [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Implement subnetworks for publicly accessible system components that are physically or logically separated from internal networks.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] publicly accessible system components are identified; and
[b] subnetworks for publicly accessible system components are physically or logically separated from internal networks.
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System and Information Integrity (SI)

SI.L1-B.1.XII – Flaw Remediation [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Identify, report, and correct information and information system flaws in a timely manner.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] the time within which to identify system flaws is specified;
[b] system flaws are identified within the specified time frame;
[c] the time within which to report system flaws is specified;
[d] system flaws are reported within the specified time frame;
[e] the time within which to correct system flaws is specified; and
[f] system flaws are corrected within the specified time frame.
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SI.L1-B.1.XIII – Malicious Code ProTection [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Provide protection from malicious code at appropriate locations within organizational information systems.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] designated locations for malicious code protection are identified; and
[b] protection from malicious code at designated locations is provided.
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SI.L1-B.1.XIV – Update Malicious Code Protection [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Update malicious code protection mechanisms when new releases are available.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] malicious code protection mechanisms are updated when new releases are available.
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SI.L1-B.1.XV – System & File Scanning [FCI Data]

SECURITY REQUIREMENT

Perform periodic scans of the information system and real-time scans of files from external sources as files are downloaded, opened, or executed.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
[a] the frequency for malicious code scans is defined;
[b] malicious code scans are performed with the defined frequency; and
[c] real-time malicious code scans of files from external sources as files are downloaded, opened, or executed are performed.
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Appendix A – Acronyms and Abbreviations

AC Access Control
CD-ROM Compact Disk Read-Only Memory
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CMMC Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
CUI Controlled Unclassified Information
CVE Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures
CWE Common Weakness Enumeration
DFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
DMZ Demilitarized Zone
DoD Department of Defense
ESP External Service Provider
FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation
FCI Federal Contract Information
IT Information Technology
NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology
OSA Organization Seeking Assessment
PIV Personal Identity Verification
SC System and Communications Protection
SI System and Information Integrity
SP Special Publication
SPRS Supplier Performance Risk System
USB Universal Serial Bus
UUENCODE Unix-to-Unix Encode
VLAN Virtual Local Area Network
  1. NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2, p 59 under system component
  2. NIST SP 800-171A, Assessing Security Requirements for Controlled Unclassified Information, June 2018 (italics and bulleted list formatting altered)