SOC 2 Type II Audit Process for MSPs

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

SOC 2 Type II attestation is a competitive differentiator that proves a business can protect sensitive customer data, especially crucial for securing enterprise deals in data-sensitive industries.
The CMMC program has three levels, with Level 1 covering 15 security requirements and Level 2 covering 110 security requirements.
Approximately 140,000 Defense Industrial Base (DIB) companies are subject to CMMC Level 1, which requires an annual self-assessment.
About 75,000 DIB companies are subject to CMMC Level 2, requiring compliance with NIST SP 800-171 R2 and an annual self-assessment or C3PAO assessment.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) face increasing pressure to demonstrate robust data security, making SOC 2 Type II attestation a critical competitive advantage. This attestation shows that an MSP can protect sensitive customer data, which is often a deciding factor in winning enterprise contracts, particularly in sectors like SaaS, fintech, and healthcare where data security is paramount [https://www.connectwise.com/blog/how-to-get-soc-2-compliance]. Beyond general data security, MSPs working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain must also navigate the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements. CMMC Level 1 applies to roughly 140,000 Defense Industrial Base (DIB) companies, while CMMC Level 2 affects about 75,000 DIB companies, each with specific security requirements [https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/TechImplementationCMMC-Rqrmnts.pdf]. Understanding both SOC 2 and CMMC ensures MSPs not only safeguard client information but also maintain eligibility for lucrative government and private sector contracts.

What is SOC 2 Type II and Why Does it Matter for MSPs?

SOC 2, or System and Organization Controls 2, is an attestation that demonstrates an organization's ability to protect sensitive customer data. It is a critical competitive differentiator for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in today's data-driven economy. For MSPs, achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance signals to potential and existing clients that their data security practices are robust, reliable, and independently verified. This level of assurance is particularly important in industries where data security is not just a preference but a strict expectation, such as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), financial technology (fintech), and healthcare.

The Foundation of SOC 2: Trust Services Criteria

The SOC 2 attestation is built upon the Trust Services Criteria (TSC) developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) [https://www.aicpa-cima.com/topic/audit-assurance/audit-and-assurance-greater-than-soc-2]. These criteria provide a framework for evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of an organization's controls relevant to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. For an MSP, adhering to these criteria means implementing and maintaining strong controls across its operations, from how data is stored and accessed to how systems are managed and monitored.

The five Trust Services Criteria include:

Security: This criterion addresses the protection of information and systems against unauthorized access, unauthorized disclosure of information, and damage to systems that could compromise the availability, integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of information or systems and affect the entity’s ability to meet its objectives. For an MSP, this means safeguarding client data through measures like access controls, firewalls, intrusion detection, and encryption.
Availability: This criterion refers to the accessibility of the system, products, or services as stipulated by contract or service level agreement. MSPs must ensure their systems and services are available to clients as promised, which involves robust infrastructure, backup and recovery procedures, and disaster recovery plans. Downtime can be costly, both financially and in terms of reputation, making availability a key concern for service providers.
Processing Integrity: This criterion addresses whether system processing is complete, valid, accurate, timely, and authorized. For MSPs handling client data and transactions, ensuring processing integrity means that all data is handled correctly and consistently, without errors or unauthorized modifications. This is especially vital for clients in fintech or other industries with high transaction volumes.
Confidentiality: This criterion refers to the protection of information designated as confidential from unauthorized access or disclosure. MSPs often handle highly sensitive client information, including proprietary business data, trade secrets, and personal identifiable information (PII). Maintaining confidentiality requires strict access controls, data classification policies, and secure communication channels.
Privacy: This criterion addresses the collection, use, retention, disclosure, and disposal of personal information in conformity with the entity’s privacy notice and generally accepted privacy principles. While related to confidentiality, privacy specifically focuses on personal information and adherence to privacy regulations like GDPR or CCPA. MSPs must have clear policies and procedures for handling personal data to meet privacy expectations.

The Value Proposition for MSPs

Achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance is not just about meeting a checklist; it's about building trust and opening doors to new business opportunities. In our analysis, MSPs with SOC 2 Type II attestation often find it easier to secure enterprise deals. Many larger organizations, particularly those in regulated industries, require their service providers to be SOC 2 compliant as a prerequisite for engagement. Without this certification, MSPs may be automatically excluded from consideration for lucrative contracts.

A SOC 2 Type II report specifically evaluates the effectiveness of an MSP's controls over a period, typically 3-12 months, rather than just at a single point in time (which is what a Type I report does). This ongoing assessment provides a higher level of assurance to clients that the MSP's security practices are consistently maintained and effective. This continuous validation is crucial for demonstrating a long-term commitment to data security.

For an MSP, the process of undergoing a SOC 2 audit also helps to identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities in their internal processes and systems. This proactive approach to security not only benefits clients but also strengthens the MSP's own operational resilience. It forces a rigorous review of policies, procedures, and technologies, leading to a more secure and efficient environment overall. The investment in SOC 2 compliance can yield significant returns by enhancing reputation, reducing security risks, and expanding market reach.

How Does CMMC Impact MSPs and SOC 2 Needs?

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) significantly impacts Managed Service Providers (MSPs), especially those working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain. CMMC was developed by the DoD to enforce strict cybersecurity standards across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Its primary goal is to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI) within the defense supply chain, preventing data leakage and intellectual property theft [https://www.smpl-c.com/blog/cmmc-requirements-for-msps-complete-compliance-guide]. This means that any MSP engaging with DoD contractors must understand and potentially comply with CMMC requirements.

CMMC's Foundation and Evolution

CMMC evolved from the existing NIST SP 800-171 requirements. It takes these requirements a step further by adding a crucial element: third-party verification. This verification ensures that contractors and their service providers actually implement the security controls they claim to have in place, moving beyond self-attestation for higher levels of compliance. The program is designed to provide increasing levels of protection against advanced persistent threats as the sensitivity of information increases.

The CMMC framework is structured into three distinct levels, each with escalating security requirements and assessment types [https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/TechImplementationCMMC-Rqrmnts.pdf].

CMMC Level 1: This level is focused on protecting Federal Contract Information (FCI). It involves 15 security requirements, which are foundational cybersecurity practices. Approximately 140,000 DIB companies are subject to CMMC Level 1. Compliance at this level is validated through an annual self-assessment.
CMMC Level 2: This level is designed for the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). It requires full compliance with NIST SP 800-171 R2, which encompasses 110 security requirements. About 75,000 DIB companies fall under CMMC Level 2. Depending on the contract, validation can be either through a self-assessment or a CMMC Third-Party Organization (C3PAO) assessment, also performed annually.
CMMC Level 3: This highest level adds and validates additional security requirements beyond NIST SP 800-171 R2. It is intended for select DoD programs that need increased protection against advanced persistent threats. Level 3 assessments are performed by the Government every three years.

MSPs and CMMC Scope

MSPs are directly affected by CMMC regulations because they often manage critical IT infrastructure and services for defense contractors. If an MSP administers IT systems, cybersecurity tools, hosting, networks, or cloud workloads for DoD contractors, they fall under CMMC scope. This is especially true if the MSP has privileged access to client environments that may contain CUI, even if they don't directly store or process the data.

An MSP's obligation to be CMMC compliant is triggered in several scenarios:

Storing CUI: If an MSP stores CUI data on its own infrastructure, it is in scope.
Transmitting Sensitive Information: If an MSP transmits sensitive information, including CUI, between systems, it is in scope.
Processing Contractor Data: If an MSP processes contractor data that includes CUI, it must comply.
Privileged Access: Even without direct data handling, privileged access to client systems containing CUI places an MSP within the compliance boundary [https://www.smpl-c.com/blog/cmmc-requirements-for-msps-complete-compliance-guide].

Understanding CMMC Requirements for MSPs is not optional for those serving the defense sector; it is a fundamental business requirement. The defense supply chain relies on every link maintaining strong cybersecurity, and MSPs are a critical part of that chain. By aligning their security practices with CMMC standards, MSPs can not only ensure compliance but also offer these cybersecurity solutions as a profitable service model, becoming trusted partners in the defense ecosystem. The robust security controls often required for SOC 2 compliance can provide a strong foundation for meeting many of the CMMC requirements, especially at Level 2, which aligns with NIST SP 800-171 R2.

When Do MSPs Need Their Own CMMC Level 2 Certification?

The question of whether an MSP needs its own CMMC Level 2 certification has been a point of clarification within the industry. It largely depends on the specific nature of the services an MSP provides and how it interacts with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Until recently, many MSPs believed they were exempt, even when their defense contractor clients were handling CUI. However, recent clarifications have made it clear that many Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) do indeed need to pursue their own CMMC certification.

Clarification from Cyber-AB

A significant clarification came during a Cyber-AB Town Hall, where Matt Travis, CEO of the Cyber AB, addressed the requirements for External Service Providers (ESPs). He stated, "If an ESP (that is not a Cloud Service Provider) is storing, processing, or transmitting CUI on their own systems—not just administering someone else’s systems—then they require their own Level 2 CMMC certification" [https://www.preveil.com/blog/when-does-your-msp-need-to-be-cmmc-compliant/]. This statement marked an important policy shift, indicating that many MSPs and MSSPs now face the dual challenge of pursuing their own compliance journey while continuing to advise their clients on theirs.

This means that if an MSP's operational model involves handling CUI on its own infrastructure, it must undergo a CMMC Level 2 assessment independently. Failure to do so could result in the MSP being assessed alongside each customer's assessment, effectively requiring multiple assessments for the MSP, which is inefficient and costly. This scenario highlights the importance of understanding the exact scope of an MSP's services and its interaction with CUI.

Specific Scenarios Requiring CMMC Level 2

Several specific scenarios outline when an MSP must pursue its own CMMC Level 2 certification:

Storing, Processing, or Transmitting CUI on MSP Systems: The most direct trigger is when an MSP's own systems are used to store, process, or transmit CUI. This goes beyond merely having privileged access to a client's CUI environment. For example, if an MSP backs up a client's CUI data to its own servers or uses its own network infrastructure to transmit CUI, it would be in scope for its own certification.
Managing Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) Tools: If an MSP manages a Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tool that collects data from a client’s CUI environment, this activity can put the MSP in scope. The data collected by the RMM tool, even if it's system logs or performance metrics, might contain or be derived from CUI, necessitating the MSP's compliance.
Administering CUI-Containing Platforms: MSPs acting as administrators for platforms that host CUI, such as Microsoft GCC High or PreVeil, and whose access includes client emails or documents containing CUI, also fall under this requirement. Their administrative access and potential interaction with CUI on these platforms necessitate their own CMMC Level 2 certification. This is because their privileged access could allow them to view, modify, or transmit CUI.

These scenarios underscore that the level of interaction with CUI, particularly when it resides on or passes through an MSP's own systems, determines the need for independent CMMC Level 2 certification. It's not just about supporting a client's CMMC efforts; it's about the MSP's own operational posture regarding CUI. For MSPs serving the defense sector, understanding When MSPs Need CMMC Compliance is crucial for continued business and avoiding compliance pitfalls. This shift ensures that every entity handling sensitive defense information, including service providers, is held to the same rigorous security standards, fortifying the entire defense supply chain.

What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance for MSPs?

Failing to meet CMMC standards can lead to severe consequences for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), impacting their business, reputation, and ability to serve defense contractors. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has established the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) to ensure that every link in the defense supply chain maintains robust cybersecurity. When an MSP falls short of these requirements, the repercussions can extend far beyond just the MSP itself, affecting its clients and the broader defense ecosystem.

Business and Contractual Ramifications

One of the most immediate and significant consequences of non-compliance is contract loss. Defense contractors cannot win or retain DoD contracts if their service providers, including MSPs, are not CMMC compliant. This creates a direct link between an MSP's compliance status and its clients' ability to secure government work. If an MSP fails to meet the necessary CMMC level, its clients may be forced to seek compliant alternatives, leading to the MSP losing valuable business. This ripple effect means that non-compliance for an MSP not only impacts its own revenue but also jeopardizes the financial stability and operational continuity of its defense contractor clients.

During CMMC assessments, contractors are required to document every vendor and service provider with access to Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) systems. A non-compliant MSP becomes a significant "red flag" during these assessments. This mandatory vendor reporting means that any security deficiencies or lack of certification on the part of an MSP will be highlighted to the DoD, potentially causing delays or even rejection of a contractor's bid. The DoD's focus is on securing the entire supply chain, so a weak link, regardless of its size, is unacceptable.

Beyond losing specific contracts, the DoD has the authority to suspend or bar non-compliant MSPs from working with defense contractors altogether. This could effectively remove an MSP from the defense industrial base, cutting off a significant market segment. Such a ban would have long-term implications, making it incredibly difficult for the MSP to recover and re-enter this specialized sector. The stringent nature of these consequences underscores the DoD's commitment to cybersecurity and its expectation that all partners meet the required standards.

Reputational Damage

In the defense community, information about compliance and security postures travels quickly. Non-compliance marks an MSP as a security risk, leading to severe reputational damage. Once an MSP is perceived as insecure or unreliable, it becomes challenging to rebuild trust, not only with defense contractors but also with clients in other sectors who prioritize data security. Word spreads fast, and a reputation for lax security can be devastating for an MSP, hindering its ability to attract new clients and retain existing ones. The perception of being a security risk can overshadow years of good service and erode client confidence.

The defense supply chain depends on every link maintaining strong cybersecurity. MSPs are critical links in that chain because they often have privileged access to contractor environments that may contain CUI [https://www.smpl-c.com/blog/cmmc-requirements-for-msps-complete-compliance-guide]. This privileged access means that an MSP's security posture directly impacts the overall security of the defense contractor it serves. If an MSP is compromised due to non-compliance, it could expose sensitive government data, leading to breaches with national security implications. For more details, see Why SOC 2 Compliance Matters for MSPs.

Ultimately, understanding cmmc compliance for it providers is no longer optional for MSPs serving the defense sector. It is a fundamental business requirement. The consequences of non-compliance are severe and far-reaching, affecting an MSP's financial viability, market access, and professional standing. Proactive engagement with CMMC requirements, potentially leveraging robust security practices already established for SOC 2 compliance, is essential for any MSP looking to thrive in or enter the defense industrial base.

How Do MSPs and MSSPs Differ in CMMC Support?

Understanding the distinction between a Managed Service Provider (MSP) and a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) is crucial, especially when considering CMMC compliance within the defense sector. While both types of providers offer outsourced IT services, their primary focus and the depth of their security offerings vary significantly. This difference influences how they support clients in meeting stringent cybersecurity requirements like CMMC.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs)

A Managed Service Provider (MSP) generally focuses on the day-to-day IT management and operational support for a business. Their services typically encompass a broad range of IT functions aimed at keeping a client's systems running smoothly and efficiently. This can include network management, server maintenance, help desk support, cloud services, and general IT infrastructure management. The core goal of an MSP is to optimize IT operations, enhance productivity, and provide reliable technical support for its clients. They are often seen as an outsourced IT department, handling routine tasks and ensuring system uptime.

For defense contractors, an MSP might manage their general IT environment, ensuring that workstations are functional, software is updated, and basic network connectivity is maintained. While an MSP implements security measures as part of its general IT management, its primary mandate is usually broader IT operations rather than specialized cybersecurity defense. However, as CMMC requirements become more pervasive, even general IT support MSPs must ensure their practices align with basic security controls, especially if they have privileged access to client systems containing Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs)

In contrast, a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) specializes exclusively in IT security. An MSSP provides comprehensive cybersecurity services designed to proactively protect a business from threats, detect vulnerabilities, and respond to incidents. Their offerings typically go beyond basic IT security to include advanced threat monitoring, intrusion detection and prevention, vulnerability management, security information and event management (SIEM), incident response, and compliance reporting. An MSSP's technology, processes, and services are all geared towards establishing and maintaining a strong security posture.

For defense contractors, an MSSP is often a critical partner in achieving and maintaining CMMC compliance. An MSSP can provide the specialized expertise needed to implement the specific security controls mandated by CMMC, such as those detailed in NIST SP 800-171 R2 for CMMC Level 2. They can proactively scan networks for threats, remediate vulnerabilities, and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure continuous compliance. The proactive nature of an MSSP's services means they are constantly looking for and mitigating potential security risks, which is essential for protecting sensitive government data.

The Critical Choice for CMMC Compliance

Finding the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) or Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) for CMMC compliance could be one of the most important steps for defense contractors supporting the Department of Defense [https://www.summit7.us/blog/step-5-find-a-msp-for-cmmc]. While an MSP can handle the foundational IT infrastructure, an MSSP brings the deep cybersecurity expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of CMMC. Many defense contractors might engage both: an MSP for general IT operations and an MSSP for specialized security and compliance management.

An MSSP's focus on proactive protection, continuous monitoring, and specialized cybersecurity services makes them uniquely positioned to assist clients with the rigorous requirements of CMMC. They can help implement the 110 security requirements for CMMC Level 2, for example, and provide the documentation and evidence needed for C3PAO assessments. The distinction is not just semantic; it represents a difference in core competencies and service offerings that is vital for meeting the demanding cybersecurity standards of the DoD. The choice between an MSP and an MSSP, or utilizing both, depends on the client's existing internal capabilities and the specific CMMC level they need to achieve.

What are the CMMC Assessment Types and Frequencies?

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program includes different assessment types and frequencies, depending on the level of certification required. These assessments are critical for validating that defense contractors and their associated service providers, including Managed Service Providers (MSPs), have implemented the necessary security controls to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The rigor and nature of the assessment increase with each CMMC level, reflecting the escalating requirements for data protection.

CMMC Level 1 Assessment

CMMC Level 1 is the foundational tier of the certification model. It applies to organizations that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) but not CUI. This level requires the implementation of 15 basic security requirements. The assessment type for CMMC Level 1 is a self-assessment [https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/TechImplementationCMMC-Rqrmnts.pdf]. This means that the defense contractor itself, or its MSP if the MSP is in scope for Level 1, is responsible for evaluating its own compliance with the 15 requirements.

The self-assessment must be performed annually. This annual frequency ensures that organizations consistently maintain their foundational cybersecurity practices. While it is a self-attestation, it still requires a diligent and honest evaluation of controls. For MSPs providing general IT support to Level 1 contractors, understanding these 15 requirements is essential to ensure their services do not inadvertently create vulnerabilities. Even if an MSP is not directly certified, its practices must support the client's ability to pass its self-assessment.

CMMC Level 2 Assessment

CMMC Level 2 is designed for organizations that handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This level is significantly more comprehensive, requiring adherence to 110 security requirements, which align with DFARS 252.204-7012 and NIST SP 800-171 R2 [https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/TechImplementationCMMC-Rqrmnts.pdf]. The assessment type for CMMC Level 2 can vary:

Self-assessment: For some contracts, a self-assessment may be permitted for CMMC Level 2. This is similar to Level 1 but covers a much broader set of controls.
CMMC Third-Party Organization (C3PAO) assessment: For other contracts, a CMMC Third-Party Organization (C3PAO) assessment is mandated. A C3PAO is an independent, accredited organization authorized to conduct CMMC assessments. This third-party verification adds a layer of objective scrutiny, ensuring that controls are not only in place but are also effectively implemented and operating as intended.

Both self-assessments and C3PAO assessments for CMMC Level 2 are performed annually. This annual review is crucial for organizations handling CUI, as the threat landscape is constantly evolving, and continuous vigilance is required. For MSPs, particularly those that store, process, or transmit CUI on their own systems, or manage RMM tools that collect data from client CUI environments, their own independent CMMC Level 2 certification may be required. This means they would undergo either a self-assessment or a C3PAO assessment annually, just like their defense contractor clients. The quote from Matt Travis, CEO of the Cyber AB, emphasized this: "If an ESP (that is not a Cloud Service Provider) is storing, processing, or transmitting CUI on their own systems—not just administering someone else’s systems—then they require their own Level 2 CMMC certification" [https://www.preveil.com/blog/when-does-your-msp-need-to-be-cmmc-compliant/]. This policy marks an important shift for the industry, ensuring external service providers are held to the same standards.

CMMC Level 3 Assessment

CMMC Level 3 is the highest tier and is reserved for select DoD programs that require enhanced protection against advanced persistent threats. This level adds further security requirements beyond NIST SP 800-171 R2. The assessment type for CMMC Level 3 is performed by the Government itself. This direct government assessment reflects the critical nature of the information being protected and the need for the highest level of assurance.

CMMC Level 3 assessments are conducted every three years. While the frequency is less than annual, the depth and rigor of a government-led assessment are considerably higher. MSPs supporting clients at this level would need to ensure their services and systems align with these advanced security requirements, though direct MSP certification at Level 3 is less commonly discussed compared to Level 2. The overarching goal of these varying assessment types and frequencies is to create a robust, multi-tiered cybersecurity framework that protects sensitive information throughout the entire defense industrial base, with MSPs playing a critical role in this ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of a SOC 2 Type II audit for an MSP?

The main purpose of a SOC 2 Type II audit for an MSP is to demonstrate that the business can effectively protect sensitive customer data. It serves as a competitive differentiator, especially important for securing enterprise deals in data-sensitive industries such as SaaS, fintech, and healthcare [https://www.connectwise.com/blog/how-to-get-soc-2-compliance]. The audit provides an independent attestation, based on the AICPA's Trust Services Criteria, that the MSP's controls are not only designed correctly but also operate effectively over a period, typically 3-12 months. This assurance builds trust with clients and proves a commitment to robust information security.

How does CMMC relate to an MSP's SOC 2 compliance efforts?

CMMC and SOC 2 address different, but often overlapping, security needs. CMMC is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) program focused on protecting Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) within the defense supply chain. SOC 2 is a broader standard for data security and privacy for service organizations. While not directly interchangeable, the robust security controls implemented for SOC 2 compliance, particularly around security, availability, and confidentiality, can provide a strong foundation for meeting many of the CMMC Level 2 requirements, which align with NIST SP 800-171 R2 (110 security requirements) [https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/TechImplementationCMMC-Rqrmnts.pdf].

Does an MSP always need its own CMMC certification if it serves a DoD contractor?

No, an MSP does not always need its own CMMC certification if it serves a DoD contractor, but it often does, depending on the nature of the services provided. An MSP needs its own CMMC Level 2 certification if it stores, processes, or transmits Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) on its own systems, or if it manages tools like RMM that collect data from a client's CUI environment [https://www.preveil.com/blog/when-does-your-msp-need-to-be-cmmc-compliant/]. However, if an MSP provides only general IT support without privileged access to CUI or direct handling of CUI on its own systems, it may not require its own independent certification.

What are the risks of an MSP not being CMMC compliant?

The risks of an MSP not being CMMC compliant are severe and include contract loss for clients, mandatory vendor reporting that flags non-compliant MSPs, and potential suspension or barring from working with defense contractors by the DoD [https://www.smpl-c.com/blog/cmmc-requirements-for-msps-complete-compliance-guide]. Non-compliance also leads to significant reputational damage, marking the MSP as a security risk within the defense community and beyond. Given that approximately 75,000 DIB companies are subject to CMMC Level 2, the market for non-compliant MSPs serving this sector will shrink dramatically.

Can an MSP help clients achieve CMMC compliance?

Yes, an MSP can help clients achieve CMMC compliance, particularly if the MSP is also an MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider) with specialized cybersecurity expertise. While an MSP focuses on general IT management, an MSSP provides dedicated IT security services, including proactive threat protection, vulnerability remediation, and compliance support [https://www.summit7.us/blog/step-5-find-a-msp-for-cmmc]. By offering cybersecurity solutions aligned with CMMC standards and providing ongoing compliance support, managed service providers can become trusted partners in the defense ecosystem, helping their clients navigate the complex CMMC requirements.