Opens in a new tab
News, Trends, and Insights for IT & Managed Services Providers
News, Trends, and Insights for IT & Managed Services Providers
Business of Tech | Pentagon Proposes CMMC Rules for Contractors; ConnectWise Supports MSPs in Achieving Compliance

The Pentagon has released proposed rules to incorporate Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements into the contracting process, featuring a three-year phased rollout. Contractors will need to either self-assess or obtain third-party certification based on data sensitivity, with compliance required at the time of contract award. By the end of the rollout, 35% of contractors handling sensitive data will need a level two certification, while 65% will require a level one self-assessment. The comment period for the proposed rule ends on October 14, 2024.

Speaking of CMMC, ConnectWise has announced its commitment to assist managed service providers (MSPs) in achieving CMMC Level 2 compliance by 2025. The company plans to implement a staged adherence strategy, including achieving compliance in a separate AWS environment, evaluating Level 3 requirements, and providing hosted CMMC-compliant products.   A key quote “With our hosted solution across the company’s solutions, MSPs can easily access and leverage our CMMC-compliant products, empowering them to navigate the complexities of CMMC Level 2 with confidence.”

Why do we care?

I’m a touch worried about misguided providers thinking that if their tool providers achieve CMMC compliance, they, too, will get this by some kind of osmosis.    This rule compliance is a primary concern for the providers, and should absolutely be done in coordination with their vendors.    Kudos to ConnectWise for doing their part, I’m just a bit concerned about this kind of potential positioning.

And if you have comments on the requirements, now is your time.  

This content is made possible by community-minded viewers like you

Join the Small Biz Thoughts Community to support independent journalism and get the raw Business of Tech interviews, Channel Intelligence briefs, monthly member calls and more. Member support is one way we sustain the costs of investigative work — from court filings to video editing — while keeping the core reporting open to all.

Thank you

Join the Small Biz Thoughts Community

Choose your upgrade:

Get the full benefits of Business of Tech Plus

Insider Access

$12/month

Perfect for MSPs and ITSPs that want full interviews, early access, and ad-free listening

  • Programmatic Ad-free private podcast feedSame show, little interruptions
  • Channel Chatter previews1–2 topics with light insights
  • Early access to interview episodesHear it days before public release
  • Monthly Insider BriefTighter analysis you can share internally
  • Extra audio segmentsCut interviews, behind-the-scenes commentary, quick competitive notes
  • Become an Insider for $12/month

    Leadership Access

    $149/month

    Perfect for MSPs and Vendors that run a team and need the extended tactics, executive summaries, and weekly alignment brief

  • All Insider Access benefits plus . . .
  • Invite your teamIncludes access for 5 team members with option to add more
  • Vendor Strategy BriefsThe entire library, plus new analysis every month
  • Channel ChatterAll topics, full insights, complete vendor discussion + sentiment list
  • Quarterly State of the Channel Briefing
  • Monthly AMA submission priorityAsk Dave direct questions, and skip the line
  • Get the Leadership Edge for $149/month

    Vendor Partner

    $500/month

    Perfect for channel companies or vendors looking to deepen their engagement with the show.

  • All Leadership Access benefits plus . . .
  • Get highlighted as a show sponsor You'll get placement in the show notes, throughout the website, and on our dedicated sponsors page.
  • Enjoy regular shout outs You'll be featured in a rotating format during the show
  • Become a show sponsor for $500/month

    Search all stories