Zscaler’s CMMC Architectural Solution: Protect. Comply. Succeed.

Introduction

The Defense Industrial Base (DIB) leverages Zscaler—now—to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) with its cloud native security architecture. Aligning with NIST 800-171, NIST 800-172, and CMMC FIPS encryption and DFARS requirements, Zscaler integrates its Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) capabilities for robust data protection. With real-time monitoring, proactive threat detection, and seamless scalability, Zscaler simplifies compliance while enhancing security and efficiency. Because of this, CIOs, CISOs, Compliance and IT security managers use Zscaler to future-proof their CUI protection—and their company.

The Compliance Challenge

Cyberattacks targeting defense contractors have surged by 35% in the last year, while ransomware incidents in higher education increased by 44%. SMBs, often seen as low-hanging fruit for cybercriminals, reported a 22% rise in breaches. 

As such, organizations face pressure to comply with NIST 800-171, NIST 800-172, DoD’s FedRAMP equivalency requirements, and CMMC’s FIPS encryption and DFARS regulations, while combating threats like phishing, ransomware, and insider breaches. Since legacy systems struggle with these requirements due to limited scalability, poor visibility, and high costs, the need to implement a security service edge (SSE) solution within a CMMC-compliant architecture exactly like Zscaler is vital for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and mitigating cyberthreats. Moreover, this consolidation of CUI assets and Security Protection Assets (SPAs) allows organizations to consolidate their CUI spillage SOPs and CMMC assessment body of evidence. 

Why Zscaler is the Solution:

Zscaler integrates a suite of capabilities packaged into one application that lowers the technology bloat on the endpoint, while reducing the equipment needing to be managed and periodically purchased and refreshed at your organization all while unifying CUI assets and Security Protection Assets (SPAs) under a FedRAMP-authorized, NIST 800-171 aligned platform. Some of Zscaler’s protection and mitigation approaches include:  

Act Now: Modernize Security and Achieve Compliance

As cybersecurity risks soar and regulatory demands intensify, outdated security architectures like legacy VPNs and hardware are no longer sufficient. For CIOs, CISOs, IT security managers, and procurement teams, security service edge (SSE) offers a scalable, cloud-driven solution to secure sensitive data, ensure compliance, and protect against evolving threats.

Legacy architectures can no longer meet compliance and security demands. SASE solutions simplify compliance, enhance security, and drive operational efficiency. Schedule a meeting today to explore how SASE can transform your organization and future-proof your security posture.