Why DoD Contractors Shouldn’t Procrastinate on obtaining CMMC Certification!

If youโ€™re a Department of Defense (DoD) contractor or subcontractor wondering about the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), hereโ€™s the bottom line: Get. The. Certification.

Although you might be tempted to put CMMC certification off until you absolutely have to, that might translate to diminished opportunities and revenue for you.

Why exact is achieving CMMC certification so critical? Consider your old friend NIST SP 800-171

NIST SP 800-171 are the cybersecurity requirements that government contractors and their subcontractors have been following since 2003. The CMMC was recently created to enhance this already existing compliance, in conjunction with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) requirements.

Why? The government relies on you to keep their Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) secure. Unfortunately, you could be among the 9 out of 10 DoD contractors who fail compliance.

If you donโ€™t get certified, your organizationโ€™s DoD contract work is on the line. The CMMC is drastically changing RFI and RFP requirements, thus impacting which companies, contractors, and subcontractors can be awarded contracts. This is why, although you might be tempted to put off certification until you absolutely have to, it might translate to diminished opportunities and revenue for you.

Think of the CMMC as the ultimate Cybersecurity update

Similar to smartphone software updates, CMMC is an update that will have long-term repercussions if you donโ€™t follow through. This upgraded model is a 5-level certification program required for all personnel handling sensitive federal information like Federal Contract Information (FCI) and CUI.

By 2026, the DoD expects all contracts to contain CMMC requirements. While right now the CMMC model is only applicable within the DoD, many speculate that it will eventually expand to the Federal sector.

Getting the CMMC helps to ensure your companyโ€™s success and longevity. Needless to say, itโ€™s worth the investment.

Make or Break Conditions:

  • DIY is a no-go.ย Unlike other compliance assessments, there is no self-assess option for the CMMC. Each CMMC award must be provided through theย CMMC Accreditation Body (AB)ย which will oversee the training, quality, and administration of the C3PAOs.
  • All hands must be on deck. Anyone employed by your company, including other contractors and/or subcontractors, must also be certified. Subcontractors, however, do not need to obtain the same level of clearance.
  • It only applies to unclassified networks.ย This certification is only relevant to those that handle, process, and/or store FCI or CUI. What the heckย is considered CUI? Truthfully, no one knows, so itโ€™s best to assume your work falls in this category. The handling of classified information falls under different safeguards.
  • Itโ€™s not necessarily one-and-done. Each certification is valid for 3 years. However, even after you get certified, if your company experiences a security breach during a contract, then you may run the risk of a CMMC re-assessment. Only under exceptional circumstances will you lose the CMMC certification; but be prepared to use this methodology throughout your contract.
  • One size does not fit all.ย The CMMC accounts for varying security levels as not all DoD contracts are the same. Each RFP will reflect one of five levels of clearance needed to obtain the contract:

Five Levels Of Clearance Cmmc Certification

So, how do you know if your company is prepared for the appropriate level?

The certification process, consisting of cyber audits and risk assessments, can advance over the five security maturity levels. Speak with a CMMC accreditation body to learn the type of security clearance that you require so that you can move forward without any business disruptions.

Get ready, get set, get certified!

After youโ€™ve determined the level of security clearance youโ€™ll need, a self-assessment test will highlight any areas in a cybersecurity program that need to be addressed before the actual audit. While an analysis could be done by an in-house IT team, bringing in a third-party consultant to conduct it can be more effective. A consultant can also help create a GAP analysis plan to address the problems.

Once youโ€™re confident you have adequate cybersecurity protocols in place, along with the necessary documentation, youโ€™re ready to be assessed by theย CMMC Accreditation Body.

Need guidance? RPG CompleteIT is here to assist.

This is a lot of information to take in and it may seem daunting, so letโ€™s end with some good news. RPG CompleteIT has a tried and true plan in place to get you CMMC certified as quickly as possible. Our Platform allows DoD contractors and subcontractors to get Level-3-compliant in just 30 days. Weโ€™re even working with approved auditors to secure an economy of scale package for our clients.

All this to say, donโ€™t worry; success is accessible to all and we want to help you get there. With RPG Cby your side, youโ€™ve got this! Emailto begin CMMC assessment preparation today.

RPG CompleteIT: More than an IT Subscription or Service

RPG CompleteIT

RPG CompleteITย private cloud environment is a powerful asset. RPG CompleteIT combines the elements of SaaS (Software as a Service), IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), and PaaS (Platform as a Service) to form a streamlined IT solution. This means software, hardware, application, security, storage, and support requirements are fully covered by its platform.

Transform your business with RPG CompleteIT

The market is shifting to make workforces more mobile and not chained to the office. Not only does this improve employee productivity, but it also improves employee satisfaction. Unfortunately, most businesses today are incapable of making this shift and COVID-19 revealed the Achilles Heel of many businessesโ€™ IT solutions.

Without RPG CompleteIT many companies would have been in dire straights. It was so impactful that Schneiderโ€™s President said, โ€œIf this had happened in December before we had you guys, we would have been dead in the water.โ€

Read the full case study and testimonial here.

Focus more on bidding and less on IT hiccups.

When it comes to bidding on projects, you need an IT network that works for you, not against you. RPG CompleteIT is specially designed for CAD environments. Work within your CAD applications such as AutoCAD, Revit, Solidworks, and more anywhere, including directly on the jobsite. Plus, utilize unlimited file storage without the side effect of lagging network speeds.

Eliminate network connectivity issues and stay productive.

Whether working remotely or in the field, accessibility is a premium. RPG CompleteIT provides each user with a cloud desktop and SSO web apps that are accessible anywhere on a variety of devices. As a result, you no longer have to rely on waiting to return to your office desktop. Wi-Fi activates your cloud desktop. Work within your preferred applications, share files, and collaborate with your team – Even from a smart phone or tablet!

How much is your data really worth?

Ransomware attacks have doubled in 2021. Despite this, many companies are still severely lacking in cybersecurity. Are you one of them? Take hacking and ransomware worries off your plate. RPG CompleteIT is the most secure cloud environment in the country providing a multi-layered managed security approach that includes a private cloud built on NIST 800-171 framework, multifactor authentication, 24/7 security operations, server and edge firewalls. Your operating system, data, and applications remain secure in data centers.

How do we ensure security & compliance?

We do not use any third-party or public cloud data repositories. The platform uses sophisticated automation, monitoring, and provisioning systems to ensure consistency and compliance. These systems are all internally developed and linked into our private infrastructure. Our team of innovators leverages decades of cybersecurity experience to not only keep up with, but stay in front of, threat vectors and compliance demands.

RPG CompleteIT‘s ever-evolving, layered approach to managed security includes (but is not limited to):

    • Private cloud built on NIST 800-171 framework
    • Advanced security policies
    • SSAE18 II data centers
    • Server & edge firewalls
    • Multifactor authentication
    • Endpoint protection
    • DNS web & content filtering
    • Spam filter
  • Secure email encryption
  • Host based intrusion detection
  • 24/7 security operations center
  • Data loss prevention (DLP)
  • Security awareness training
  • Phishing simulation
  • Compliance documentation

The CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is a unifying cybersecurity standard.ย DoD contractors mustย meet theย CMMC requirements including a cybersecurity self-assessment and evidence of compliance to continue doing business.

Say goodbye to an ever-growing list of subscriptions and unexpected IT fees.

As hardware breaks or need replacement, software subscriptions become outdated, and network issues arise, your IT expenses can fluctuate dramatically each month. RPG CompleteIT puts an end to unpredictable IT costs. Its per user, per month payment model means scalable, streamlined costs customized to your company’s size and specifications.

Problems RPG CompleteIT solves.

If you answer โ€œyesโ€ to any of the following questions, RPG CompleteIT is a solution for you.

    • Have you outgrown your existing support model?
    • Have you experienced a virus or security issues?
    • Do you need to address compliance issues?
    • Are you missing a disaster recovery plan?
    • Do you have plans to purchase hardware? (e.g., PCs, additional storage, server replacement)
    • Are you looking for ways to increase employee productivity?
    • Are you lacking a seamless way to work remotely?
    • Do you need better customer support?
    • Are your programs running slowly?
    • Is your IT taking up more time and energy than it should?

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Migrating to RPG CompleteIT is easier than you think!

Unlock your ability to access software, large files, and collaborative spaces from virtually anywhere without sacrificing cybersecurity. If you’re interested in learning more about transforming your IT, let’s chat! Fill out the form or message at us info@rpg.com. Rather speak on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.

Is it time to make the switch to a Cloud Network?


Completeit Gamechanger
Important factors for AEC companies to consider when upgrading to a Cloud-Based Network Solution.

The Cloud vs CAD

There’s been a recent surge of industry chatter regarding Cloud-based IT Networks and apps for the AEC. Understandably, there’s a hint of hesitation over jumping head first into fully adopting a cloud-based network. After all, the typical AEC environment now involves running CAD applications and storing large files. Not to mention, the idea of completely overhauling your IT strategy can seem daunting and complicated. Enter RPG’s CompleteIT – A comprehensive Cloud solution with a variety of options for complex environments, including solutions with CAD in mind!

What does the migration process entail?

Last March, RPG decided to take the plunge and migrate to CompleteIT.ย  The preparation for migration was based upon our custom CompleteIT solution. We’re happy to report that the transition process went smoother than anticipated. While we did experience a few hours of downtime to get up and running, once migration was completed, a simple sign in process using the easy-to-follow instructions revealed a full upgrade of all software!

RPG has incredible peace of mind in knowing we are subscribed to the most secure private cloud network in the entire countryย with the crucial addition ofย disaster recovery. Our team now enjoys the benefit of full network accessibility from any device. Plus, if we do happen to run into a technical error or snafu, customer service is on standby 24/7 via email and phone to quickly resolve it.ย  Now,ย instead of focusing on the endless needs that arise with a traditional IT network setup, we can focus on growing our business!

The Size of Your Firm

Is your company medium or large in size? If so, RPG’s CompleteIT can be extremely beneficial to your bottom line. The financial benefits come from its subscription-based pay model.ย  Your firm will only pay for the IT network you use on a per user, per month basis. This keeps costs affordable and streamlined. You’ll never have to be concerned with the extraneous expenses and investments associated with hardware and software. Plus, consolidating your IT network needs can take a lot off of your already full plate!

Meeting a variety of IT Network Needs

We already mentioned that RPG’s CompleteIT is the pinnacle in cloud-based security, but there’s several other perks that set it apart. Hiring more staff quickly or opening a new branch? Not a problem for RPG’s CompleteIT. Its scalability means whether you are growing or downsizing, your business needs are always met. The workflow advantages come from its mobility, truly making it a productivity gamechanger. Each member of your team will be able to access the full company network from any device, therefore improving communication, collaboration, and response!

Contact RPG

Click here to learn more information on RPG’s CompleteIT.ย  Feel free to send us a message at info@rpg.comย or via theย contact form to learn more about this Cloud-Based IT Network solution. Rather speak on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.

We Have Migrated to CompleteIT

CompleteitIn an effort to streamline our IT needs, RPG recently migrated to CompleteIT. Weโ€™re happy to report the transition went better than expected. The process was seamless. With only a few hours of downtime during the migration, the adjustment period was painless. The 24/7/365 IT customer service is consistently responsive, friendly and knowledgeable. There are no hard-to-navigate applications or programs required.

After the migration was complete, a simple sign in process, using easy to follow instructions, revealed a full upgrade of all software. Our internet service and load times are now much faster. With data breaches popping up everywhere, keeping your company’s data protected is more crucial than ever. CompleteIT is the most secure private cloud in the country. When you choose CompleteIT you are also choosing enterprise level anti-malware, anti-spam, active monitoring, intrusion detections, and more key security measures. Additionally, CompleteIT offers incredible peace of mind via full disaster recovery. Stay protected and have a safety net!

Best of all, instead of focusing on IT, we can focus on growing our business, and so can you.

Contac RPG

Does this comprehensive IT solution sound appealing? Click here to learn more about RPGโ€™s CompleteIT.ย  Feel free to send us a message atย info@rpg.comย or via theย contact form. Rather speak on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.