Question 1

What's a C3PAO?

Accepted Answer

Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization — independent firms authorized by Cyber-AB to assess CMMC Level 2. They cannot consult and assess on the same engagement.

Question 2

Can we use a cloud enclave to limit CUI scope?

Accepted Answer

Yes — purpose-built CUI enclaves (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, Microsoft 365 GCC High) drastically reduce assessment scope. We usually recommend this.

Question 3

Do we need FedRAMP-authorized cloud services?

Accepted Answer

For CUI: yes, the cloud service handling CUI must be FedRAMP Moderate (or DoD IL4/IL5 equivalent). This is where M365 GCC High and AWS GovCloud become non-negotiable.

Question 4

What if we fail the C3PAO assessment?

Accepted Answer

You can remediate findings and re-assess. Most clients pass on first attempt when the SSP is honest and the controls actually work. The POA&M is the negotiation tool for partially-met controls.

Question 5

Do you work outside a framework engagement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Penetration testing, network and cloud security, and infrastructure hardening are all standalone services. You don't need a compliance deadline to get more secure; many clients start with the security work and add the framework later.