The rollout of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC, or CMMC 2.0) means it is now more important than ever for defense contractors to ensure that they have a comprehensive cybersecurity program in place. One crucial component of a good cybersecurity program is a System Security Plan (SSP). In this blog post, we'll explain what an SSP is, why it's important for CMMC, and provide tips on developing an SSP. 

What is a System Security Plan?

A System Security Plan (SSP) is a document that outlines an organization's approach to securing its information systems and data. It should provide a comprehensive overview of an organization's cybersecurity program, policies, procedures, and technologies. 

For CMMC, your SSP should outline and explain the policies, procedures, technologies, personnel, and relationships that deliver CMMC compliance. For organizations handling CUI, the implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of each of the 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls comprising CMMC Level 2 should be laid out precisely. 

Why is an SSP important for CMMC?

An SSP is critical for proving you can protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in accordance with CMMC Level 2 practices and achieve certification. SSPs help organizations achieve, maintain, and prove the organizational security required for CMMC compliance, assessment, and certification. Without a comprehensive SSP would-be contractors cannot achieve CMMC and will become ineligible for DoD contracts. 

How do I begin developing an effective SSP?

Developing a high-quality SSP can be a time-consuming process, but it is a critical component of ensuring CMMC success. Here are some steps you can take to develop an effective SSP:

• Conduct a thorough risk assessment: Before you can develop an effective SSP, you need to understand the risks that your organization faces. Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify the potential threats and vulnerabilities that could impact your organization. These must be addressed in your SSP. For more information on conducting a risk assessment, check out NIST SP 800-30, Guide for Conducting Risk Assessments.

• Identify your organization’s CMMC Level: The CMMC 2.0 framework includes a set of controls that must be met at each level of cybersecurity maturity. Identify the controls that apply to your organization and develop policies and procedures to meet each control. 

• Document your policies and procedures: Once you have identified the practices, or controls, that apply to your organization, document your policies and procedures for meeting each one. Be sure to include details on how each control is implemented, monitored, and enforced. NIST’s SP 800-171 CUI SSP template may be a helpful resource.

• Conduct regular reviews and updates: An effective SSP is not a one-time document. It should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure that it continues to accurately reflect your organization's cybersecurity program.

• Consider working with a compliance expert: Developing an effective SSP can be a complex and time-consuming process. Consider working with a compliance expert who can help you develop a comprehensive SSP that meets CMMC requirements.

Creating an SSP can be challenging, but XQ can make the process easier. By providing solutions to a wide range of technical controls, XQ drastically reduces the time, documentation, and expertise required for an SSP. If you’re ready to kick-start your SSP journey, connect with XQ today!