CMMC vs SOC 2
CMMC vs SOC 2: which compliance does your business need?
One is required to win DoD work; the other reassures commercial customers. Here is the difference — and when you might need both.
Comparison
CMMC and SOC 2 are both ways to demonstrate strong cybersecurity — but they serve different audiences. CMMC is a mandatory U.S. Department of Defense certification for contractors handling FCI and CUI, built on NIST SP 800-171. SOC 2 is a voluntary, CPA-audited attestation that reassures commercial customers and partners. Which you need depends on who you sell to.
CMMC vs SOC 2 at a glance
| CMMC 2.0 | SOC 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Required by | U.S. DoD / defense supply chain | Commercial customers (often SaaS) |
| Mandatory? | Yes, for FCI/CUI contracts | Voluntary, market-driven |
| Based on | NIST SP 800-171 | AICPA Trust Services Criteria |
| Assessed by | Self or C3PAO (by level) | Independent CPA firm |
| Result | Certification / SPRS score | Attestation report |
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between CMMC and SOC 2?
CMMC is a mandatory U.S. Department of Defense certification for contractors handling FCI/CUI, built on NIST SP 800-171. SOC 2 is a voluntary attestation, audited by a CPA firm, that demonstrates strong security controls to customers and partners — common for SaaS and service providers.
Do I need both CMMC and SOC 2?
If you sell to the DoD supply chain you need CMMC. If you sell software or services to commercial customers who ask for security assurance, SOC 2 is often expected. Some organizations pursue both; Intuitus can map controls so the work overlaps efficiently.
Is CMMC harder than SOC 2?
They differ. CMMC has a fixed control set (NIST SP 800-171) and defined levels; SOC 2 is scoped to the trust criteria you choose and your own control descriptions. Intuitus helps you scope either one to avoid wasted effort.
Related: CMMC compliance for defense · Compliance & readiness
Not sure which fits your organization?
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