Cybersecurity threats are growing more sophisticated every day, creating challenges for organizations handling sensitive data. For companies working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), maintaining high levels of cybersecurity is not just a best practice, but mandatory for the security of the country’s defense infrastructure. This is where the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) comes in to enforce robust cybersecurity measures and protect critically important information from increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. By ensuring that all defense contractors meet heightened security standards, CMMC underscores its critical role in preserving national security.

Here, we will explore what CMMC compliance is and its importance, how the newly updated CMMC 2.0 works, the phased implementation of CMMC for contractors, and how CallTower can help contractors achieve and maintain compliance with Microsoft Teams GCC High.

What CMMC Compliance is & Why it is Important

The CMMC is a program developed by the DoD to ensure that contractor and subcontractors within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) comply with security requirements. The program is designed to strengthen DIB cybersecurity, improve the enforcement of security measures already in place, and better safeguard sensitive information, such as Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

CMMC compliance is critical in safeguarding national security. The DIB faces increasingly frequent, complex cyberattacks, and breaches can compromise sensitive government data. By strengthening cybersecurity and improving the enforcement of existing security measures, CMMC mitigates risks across the board while ensuring all defense contractors, regardless of size, align with stringent security standards.

The program was first introduced in 2019 under the CMMC 1.0 framework. After this framework’s initial release, the program underwent significant updates following feedback from the public. By early 2021, the DoD began developing CMMC 2.0 to strengthen security protocols and streamline implementation.

How CMMC 2.0 Works

CMMC 2.0 is structured into 3 compliance levels, each with increasingly stringent requirements for higher levels of sensitive information. CMMC 2.0 is structured into three compliance levels, each designed to meet varying degrees of security requirements:

• Level 1 focuses on foundational measures to safeguard FCI with 15 security controls. Vendors complete self-assessments to achieve this level of certification.
• Level 2 addresses the protection of CUI by incorporating 110 security controls. It generally requires independent assessments conducted by CMMC Third-Party Assessor Organizations (C3PAOs).
• Level 3 is tailored for organizations handling highly sensitive information, adding 24 advanced controls to defend against persistent threats. These assessments are led by government-approved auditors.

This revised framework underwent public and government review before being published as a proposed rule in December 2023. The program was then published as a Final Rule into the Federal Register on October 15, 2024, and became operational on December 16, 2024, making CMMC 2.0 the official cybersecurity program for the DoD. This means that, unlike its predecessors, CMMC 2.0 compliance is mandatory for all current and future defense contractors, emphasizing the program’s critical importance in securing the DoD’s supply chain.

CMMC 2.0's Phased Implementation

Because CMMC 2.0 is mandatory for all contractors and subcontractors, the DoD has utilized a phased implementation to ensure all contractors are CMMC compliant by 2028. The 4-phase implementation goes as follows:

• Phase 1: Self-assessments for Level 1 and Level 2 contracts become conditional for DoD contract eligibility, and contractors can adopt essential CMMC controls for the self-assessments. This phase began after CMMC 2.0 became operational on December 16, 2024, and runs for 6 months.
• Phase 2: Contractors seeking Level 2 contracts must pass a third-party Level 2 CMMC assessment from a C3PAOs. This phase, which begins in mid-2025, runs for 12 months.
• Phase 3: Contractors seeking Level 3 contracts must pass a government-led assessment conducted by the DIB’s Cybersecurity Assessment Center. This phase begins in mid-2026 and continues for 12 months.
• Phase 4: Full integration of CMMC 2.0 into all DoD contracts is expected by mid-2028. At this point, contractors must comply with CMMC requirements to qualify for contracts.

Currently, Phase 1 is wrapping up, and Phase 2 is commencing, making it critical for DoD contractors to finalize self-assessments and prepare for third-party evaluations to achieve Level 2 certification.

How Microsoft Teams GCC High Supports Contractors

Meeting CMMC compliance requires maintaining secure communication systems that protect sensitive information and ensure stringent cybersecurity protocols, which can be overwhelming for both old and new contractors. This is where CallTower, a global leader in enterprise-class cloud communication and collaboration solutions, comes in. CallTower specializes in unifying communication technologies while ensuring regulatory compliance, particularly through Microsoft Teams GCC High.

Microsoft Teams GCC High is a specialized version of Microsoft's platform, built to meet the rigorous standards of the DoD. It adheres to strict compliance standards, such as the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). With its robust protections for FCI and CUI, Teams GCC High is an ideal solution for contractors who require secure and compliant collaboration systems.

The CalLTower Advantage

For contractors, CallTower not only equips them with the tools needed for CMMC compliance but also offers benefits to enhance their communication and operational efficiency. As a trusted Microsoft partner, CallTower was the first provider of Direct Routing services for GCC High, enabling secure voice calling, conferencing, and PSTN capabilities within Microsoft Teams while adhering to compliance standards. Furthermore, CallTower is the only voice provider delivering cloud-based Direct Routing in GCC High to support Microsoft 365 GCC High (MSFT 365 GCCH) for DoD contractors.

Other benefits that CallTower provides for contractors using GCC High include:

• Enhanced End-to-End Security: Secure collaboration is ensured through compliance with strict CMMC and GCC High requirements, supported by robust encryption and advanced data protection.
• Voice-Optimized Network: High-quality voice communication is guaranteed with a purpose-built network designed for clarity, reliability, and low-latency calls.
• Redundant Connections & Failover: Business continuity is maintained with multiple redundant systems that reroute traffic seamlessly during outages or issues.
• Ongoing Monitoring & Support: Expert-managed monitoring and 24/7 support ensure rapid detection and resolution of potential issues.
• Simplified Implementation: Streamlined processes and expert guidance minimize the complexity of deploying Microsoft Teams GCC High for compliance.
• Scalable & Cost Effective: Flexible solutions adapt to changing needs while delivering cost efficiency and value without sacrificing performance or compliance.

Conclusion

CMMC compliance is vital in securing the nation’s defense infrastructure, protecting sensitive information, and mitigating the increasing cyberattacks faced by the DIB. With the phased rollout of CMMC 2.0, contractors and subcontractors must adhere to stricter cybersecurity standards to maintain eligibility for DoD contracts. This not only ensures consistent protection of FCI and CUI but also strengthens the overall resilience of the Department of Defense’s supply chain.

For contractors navigating the complexities of compliance, solutions like Microsoft Teams GCC High, supported by CallTower, provide reliable tools to meet stringent cybersecurity standards. CallTower’s expertise in communication technologies, coupled with its robust, compliant infrastructure, simplifies the process for contractors, ensuring secure communication and streamlined implementation. With end-to-end security, scalable solutions, and expert support, CallTower empowers DoD contractors to meet CMMC requirements effectively. Together, these measures fortify national security against evolving cyber threats while maintaining operational excellence.