A CMMC Level 2 assessment demands careful attention to how security controls function in daily operations. Rather than relying on assumptions, assessors look for proof that each requirement is being performed consistently. This verification process gives a clear picture of whether a company is truly meeting CMMC level 2 requirements or only meeting them on paper.
Checking Written Policies to Confirm They Match What the Company Actually Follows
A C3PAO begins by examining written policies to determine whether they reflect actual workplace practices. Many companies have documents outlining procedures for access control, data handling, or system monitoring, but these documents sometimes fail to match what employees do each day. An assessment compares policy language to real behavior to confirm that the documented rules and operational habits align. A mismatch between written policies and daily actions can hinder CMMC level 2 compliance, especially during the Intro to CMMC assessment stage. Assessors look for consistency across all processes, making this an important early step. Strong policy alignment helps reduce Common CMMC challenges later in the assessment and confirms the company has prepared responsibly.
Reviewing System Settings to Make Sure Security Controls Are Turned on
CMMC Controls only work if they are properly configured. Assessors review system settings to confirm that features like multi-factor authentication, audit logging, and secure configurations are active. This technical verification answers the question many companies overlook: are the tools that support CMMC security actually enabled?
Detailed system reviews often reveal missing settings or outdated configurations. A CMMC RPO or compliance consulting team usually helps companies address these issues before assessments through a structured CMMC Pre Assessment. Ensuring settings match CMMC compliance requirements prevents unnecessary delays during the official review.
Verifying User Access Lists to Ensure Only the Right People Can Reach Sensitive Data
Access control plays a major role in protecting government-related information. Assessors verify whether user access lists are accurate and whether employees only have the permissions needed for their roles. This helps confirm the company follows the principle of least privilege, which is a key expectation across CMMC level 1 requirements and Level 2.
Periodic reviews of access lists reveal whether former employees still have active credentials or whether current employees have access beyond their responsibilities. Consulting for CMMC often highlights these oversights early so corrections can be made before the assessment begins.
Looking Through Activity Logs to Confirm Systems Are Being Watched Regularly
Log monitoring is a major component of CMMC security, and assessors examine activity logs to see whether systems are actively monitored. Logs should show regular reviews, alerts, and responses to potential issues. Assessors look not only at the existence of logs but also how they are used.
Activity logs also help demonstrate long-term security awareness. They show patterns, unusual behavior, and whether alerts were handled correctly. CMMC consultants frequently assist companies in building reliable monitoring habits that satisfy CMMC compliance requirements.
Confirming the Company’s Device and Software Inventory Is Complete and up to Date
A complete inventory helps identify which devices and applications store or process sensitive data. Assessors verify that inventory lists include laptops, servers, mobile devices, and all relevant software. Missing items often indicate weak scoping, which affects the accuracy of the CMMC scoping guide.
A thorough inventory also supports many CMMC controls related to updates, patching, and access management. Compliance consulting teams typically help companies refine these lists so nothing is missed during the CMMC assessment. Updated inventories help define an accurate boundary for all systems that fall under CMMC level 2 compliance.
Reviewing Employee Training Records to Show Everyone Learned Required Security Basics
Assessors need evidence that employees have completed required security training. Training records demonstrate whether staff members understand how to identify threats, report issues, and handle data correctly. Without these records, a company cannot show compliance with required CMMC controls.
Well-maintained training logs also prove that training happens routinely, not just once. Working with a CMMC RPO often helps organizations set up automated tracking systems that simplify long-term record maintenance. Training verification is essential because employee behavior plays a major role in meeting CMMC compliance requirements.
Checking Incident Reports to Verify the Team Knows How to Handle Security Issues
Incident reporting is a cornerstone of CMMC level 2 requirements. Assessors review past incidents, documented responses, and corrective actions to determine whether the company handles issues appropriately. Incident documentation shows whether the team knows how to react during real threats, not just hypothetical scenarios.
A strong incident response history—supported by clear documentation—shows preparedness and an understanding of CMMC security expectations. Many companies strengthen their reporting structure through CMMC compliance consulting so assessments go smoothly.
Confirming Backups and Data Protection Steps Are Consistently Performed
Backup procedures protect critical information from loss. Assessors check backup schedules, storage locations, and test results to ensure data recovery is possible. This step highlights whether backups are performed consistently or only during certain periods.
Backup monitoring also demonstrates how well a company follows CMMC controls for data protection. CMMC level 2 compliance requires reliable proof of secure backups and the ability to restore important files quickly. These records serve as essential evidence during the verification process.
Reviewing Encryption Use to Ensure Sensitive Information Is Properly Protected
Encryption protects sensitive information both in transit and at rest. Assessors verify encryption settings across devices, applications, and communication tools. This review ensures protected information cannot be accessed by unauthorized individuals, meeting the expectations outlined in CMMC compliance requirements.
Encryption reviews also confirm whether companies use approved methods and maintain proper key management. For organizations seeking guidance through each stage of Preparing for CMMC assessment or meeting CMMC level 2 requirements, MAD Security provides services that strengthen verification steps, improve readiness, and support long-term compliance.