What You Need to Know About CMMC – And Why November Matters

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is no longer a distant requirement. Starting November 10, 2025, the Department of Defense (DoD) will begin requiring CMMC compliance for new bids and contract awards. If your organization does business with the DoD, directly or indirectly, this impacts you.

What is CMMC?

CMMC is the DoD’s cybersecurity framework designed to protect sensitive information in the defense supply chain. It requires contractors and subcontractors to implement and demonstrate specific levels of cybersecurity maturity. In simple terms:

  • If you handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), you must meet defined security standards.

  • If you work with a DoD prime or subcontractor, you may be required to certify before you can even participate in bids.

Why November Is a Turning Point

After years of drafts and revisions, the DoD has finalized its CMMC 2.0 rule. Contracting officers will begin including CMMC requirements in new solicitations this November. That means:

  • Companies that aren’t certified will be locked out of new opportunities.

  • Bids may be rejected if the required certification isn’t in place.

  • Compliance will shift from a “nice to have” to a gatekeeper for revenue.

How to Prepare

  1. Assess your current posture – Identify gaps against NIST 800-171 controls.

  2. Document everything – Policies, procedures, and evidence will be audited.

  3. Close compliance gaps – This may involve technology, processes, and training.

  4. Engage a trusted partner – Certification is complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Where Xtel Can Help

At Xtel, we work alongside defense contractors and suppliers to:

  • Conduct pre-audit readiness assessments.

  • Deliver fully managed cybersecurity solutions including firewalls, endpoint protection, email security, vulnerability scanning, and 24/7 SOC monitoring.

  • Provide audit-ready documentation and ongoing compliance support.

We’ve partnered with one of the few CMMC preparation groups that has achieved a perfect score on its own audit. That means when you work with Xtel, you get proven expertise and practical guidance.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The clock is ticking. November is closer than it seems, and certification isn’t something you can complete overnight. Getting started now ensures you’re ready to compete for new DoD business when CMMC becomes mandatory.

Let’s talk strategy. Contact us today to schedule a CMMC readiness review.


 
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