CMMC Audit Services

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework establishes cybersecurity requirements for companies that store, process, or transmit Controlled Unclassified Information on behalf of the Department of Defense.

CMMC builds upon the security controls defined within NIST Special Publication 800-171, which outlines the technical safeguards required to protect CUI within contractor systems.

The CMMC program requires companies to demonstrate that they have implemented these security controls through a formal certification assessment.

Many defense contractors must complete a CMMC assessment to remain eligible to compete for Department of Defense contracts.

CMMC Readiness Assessments

Tanner Security provides CMMC readiness assessments that help companies evaluate whether their cybersecurity controls meet the requirements expected for certification.

Our readiness assessments identify gaps between a company’s current security posture and the controls required under NIST SP 800-171 and the CMMC framework.

A typical CMMC readiness assessment includes evaluation of:

• Access control policies and authentication systems
• Incident response procedures
• System and network monitoring capabilities
• Configuration management processes
• Vulnerability management practices
• Security awareness and training programs
• Data protection and encryption practices

Following the assessment, Tanner Security provides a detailed report outlining the security gaps before a company can begin a formal CMMC certification audit.

Because CMMC requirements are based largely on NIST SP 800-171, many defense contractors begin by evaluating their existing controls against the NIST standard.

Tanner Security conducts structured NIST 800-171 compliance assessments that measure how well a company has implemented the 110 required security controls.

These assessments help businesses:

• Understand compliance gaps
• Improve cybersecurity maturity
• Prepare for CMMC certification assessments
• Strengthen protection of Controlled Unclassified Information

Companies that complete a thorough NIST 800-171 assessment are significantly better prepared for the CMMC certification process.

Cybersecurity threats targeting the defense supply chain continue to grow in sophistication.

Foreign intelligence services and cybercriminal groups frequently attempt to compromise defense contractors to gain access to sensitive government information and intellectual property.

Tanner Security conducts cybersecurity risk assessments designed to identify vulnerabilities that could expose CUI or other sensitive contract data.

Our assessments review areas including:

• network security architecture
• identity and access management
• endpoint protection controls
• vulnerability management practices
• monitoring and incident response capabilities

This process helps a company understand where cybersecurity weaknesses exist and how they may impact compliance with Department of Defense security requirements.

Why Defense Contractors Choose Tanner Security

Companies within the Defense Industrial Base require cybersecurity expertise that understands both technical security controls and federal regulatory requirements.

Tanner Security supports defense contractors through:

• Independent Cybersecurity Expertise: Our consulting firm provides objective assessments and recommendations focused on strengthening security posture rather than selling software products.
• Experience with NIST Security Frameworks: Our consultants regularly work with businesses implementing NIST SP 800-171, CIS Critical Security Controls, and related cybersecurity frameworks.
• Practical Compliance Guidance: We translate complex regulatory requirements into practical technical improvements that security teams can implement.
• Support for Small and Mid-Size Defense Contractors: Many smaller companies within the defense supply chain lack internal cybersecurity resources. Tanner Security helps these businesses build security programs that meet federal requirements.

CMMC certification can present a significant challenge for many defense contractors. Companies often struggle with:

• incomplete implementation of NIST 800-171 controls
• undocumented security processes
• insufficient monitoring and incident response capabilities
• weak access control policies

A structured readiness assessment allows a company to address these issues before undergoing a formal CMMC certification audit. Tanner Security helps businesses develop a clear roadmap to improve cybersecurity maturity and prepare systems for certification.

Strengthen Your Company’s Cybersecurity for DoD Contracts

Defense contractors must demonstrate strong cybersecurity practices to maintain eligibility for Department of Defense contracts. Independent assessments help businesses understand their security posture and address gaps before undergoing certification reviews. Tanner Security provides CMMC readiness assessments, NIST 800-171 compliance reviews, and cybersecurity consulting services that help defense contractors strengthen security controls and protect sensitive government data.

If your company supports Department of Defense programs and needs assistance preparing for CMMC requirements, Tanner Security can help you evaluate your cybersecurity environment and prepare for certification.