CMMC vs NIST 800-171: the requirement and the verification
Buyers treat "CMMC" and "800-171" as synonyms. They're not: 800-171 is the requirement set, CMMC is the verification program. Confusing them leads to buying the wrong engagement at the wrong time.
800-171: what to implement
NIST SP 800-171 defines the security requirements for protecting CUI on nonfederal systems. Implementation is your job — policies, controls, SSP, POA&M.
CMMC: how it's verified
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification is the DoD's program for verifying 800-171 implementation. Level 1 is a self-assessment (15 practices); Level 2 aligns to the 110 800-171 practices and generally requires assessment by an authorized C3PAO. The Cyber AB (not NIST) runs the assessor ecosystem.
The sequencing mistake
Hiring a C3PAO before you're ready is the classic expensive error — a failed assessment costs the fee and the delay. The right sequence: readiness assessment → remediation → C3PAO assessment. Readiness firms prepare you; C3PAOs assess you.
What it costs
Our labeled estimates: 800-171 readiness $15,000–$40,000; CMMC Level 2 C3PAO assessment $50,000–$150,000. Full provenance in the 2026 pricing report.
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