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GEN0659 Mastering NIST 800-171 for Defense Sector ICs

$199.00
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A tailored course, built for your situation

Mastering NIST 800-171 for Defense Sector ICs

Build unshakeable compliance fluency tailored to your role in a high-pressure defense environment.

$199 one-time
30-day money-back guarantee Verified against latest insights, updated access provided within 24h

Each order is checked and updated against the latest insights before delivery. That is why access takes up to 24 hours rather than being instant.

12 modules. 12 chapters per module. 144 chapters total.
12 modules, each with 12 chapters (144 chapters total), text-based, plus downloadable templates and a hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.
Stop last-minute control rewrites before prime contractor audits.

The situation this course is for

Control implementations often drift under stakeholder pressure, requiring painful reconciliation when external reviewers engage. The cost isn’t just time, it’s credibility on technical ownership.

Who this is for

Individual contributors in defense contracting who own or influence compliance artefacts but lack formal authority over cross-functional teams.

Who this is not for

Program managers signing off on compliance packages, executives building CMMC strategy, or auditors validating controls. This is for hands-on practitioners doing the work.

What you walk away with

  • Map NIST 800-171 controls to existing system configurations with zero ambiguity
  • Produce self-validating implementation evidence that survives prime contractor scrutiny
  • Anticipate common control interpretation gaps before integration timelines shift
  • Speak the shared language of assessors, engineers, and program leads without translation drag
  • Lock down repeatable templates for access controls, media protection, and incident response

The 12 modules (with all 144 chapters)

Module 1. Foundations of NIST 800-171 in Defense Contexts
Establish core terminology, scope boundaries, and applicability rules specific to DoD supply chain roles. Clarify how 'nonfederal systems' are interpreted in subcontractor environments.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Understanding the origin and mandate behind NIST 800-171 Rev 2
  2. How DFARS clauses trigger compliance obligations for subs
  3. Defining what counts as 'covered defense information'
  4. Mapping FAR 52.204-21 to internal data handling practices
  5. Differentiating between public, internal, and controlled unclassified categories
  6. Recognizing when cloud service providers inherit responsibility
  7. The role of authorization boundaries in scoping assessments
  8. Common misconceptions about inherited controls from primes
  9. Using the SSP as a living document, not a one-time submission
  10. Integrating POAMs early to avoid late-cycle surprises
  11. Linking security objectives to mission assurance requirements
  12. Avoiding over-scoping through precise control tailoring
Module 2. Access Control Framework Design
Build granular access policies aligned with least privilege, account management, and remote access standards without disrupting operational workflows.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Implementing role-based access using organizational role definitions
  2. Designing automated deprovisioning triggers based on HR events
  3. Enforcing multi-factor authentication for all privileged accounts
  4. Managing shared accounts with justified exceptions and logging
  5. Controlling remote access via approved encrypted tunnels only
  6. Restricting domain-level privileges to documented use cases
  7. Auditing access changes weekly with immutable logs
  8. Blocking default administrator accounts on workstations
  9. Validating access reviews happen quarterly with sign-off
  10. Integrating JIT elevation for temporary privilege grants
  11. Documenting access rationale for every elevated permission
  12. Aligning access rules with FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography
Module 3. Audit and Accountability Configuration
Set up logging, monitoring, and review processes that satisfy detection, retention, and analysis requirements across systems and networks.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Identifying which systems must generate audit records
  2. Capturing user identity, timestamp, and event type consistently
  3. Protecting log integrity with write-once storage or hashing
  4. Ensuring logs are retained for a minimum of 90 days
  5. Automating daily log reviews for suspicious activity patterns
  6. Centralizing logs in a SIEM with access limited to admins
  7. Alerting on failed login attempts after three consecutive tries
  8. Recording all administrative actions with full context
  9. Synchronizing clocks across devices to UTC within one second
  10. Producing auditor-ready log extracts on demand
  11. Handling log aggregation across hybrid on-prem/cloud setups
  12. Testing log recovery procedures annually
Module 4. Confidentiality and Media Protection
Secure physical and digital media throughout their lifecycle, from creation and use to disposal, ensuring CUI remains protected.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Labeling all media containing CUI with visible markings
  2. Encrypting portable devices storing controlled information
  3. Controlling USB and external drive usage with group policies
  4. Sanitizing hard drives before repurposing or disposal
  5. Tracking removable media checkouts with accountability logs
  6. Storing backup tapes in locked containers with access logs
  7. Verifying encryption strength meets FIPS 140-2 Level 1
  8. Prohibiting personal computing devices for CUI handling
  9. Enforcing screen locks after five minutes of inactivity
  10. Monitoring for unauthorized printing of sensitive documents
  11. Securing fax transmissions with cover sheets and confirmation
  12. Managing cloud file sharing permissions by sensitivity level
Module 5. Incident Response Planning and Execution
Develop and maintain a response capability that detects, reports, and mitigates incidents involving CUI in accordance with contractual timelines.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Defining what constitutes a reportable security incident
  2. Establishing internal communication paths for rapid triage
  3. Documenting roles and responsibilities during active events
  4. Creating playbooks for malware, data exfiltration, and ransomware
  5. Reporting confirmed incidents to primes within 72 hours
  6. Preserving forensic evidence without altering original data
  7. Conducting post-incident reviews to identify root causes
  8. Updating controls based on lessons learned from past events
  9. Testing response plans annually with tabletop exercises
  10. Coordinating with external support teams during escalation
  11. Logging all response activities for regulator transparency
  12. Maintaining contact lists for legal, PR, and cyber insurance
Module 6. System and Communications Protection
Apply boundary protections, encryption, and denial-of-service safeguards to maintain system integrity and availability.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Deploying firewalls at all network boundaries with default deny
  2. Segmenting networks to isolate CUI-handling systems
  3. Using encrypted protocols like TLS 1.2+ for data in transit
  4. Blocking unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing applications
  5. Implementing DDoS mitigation strategies at internet edge
  6. Validating email authenticity with SPF, DKIM, and DMARC
  7. Filtering malicious URLs and attachments at gateway level
  8. Requiring certificate-based authentication for APIs
  9. Monitoring for anomalous outbound traffic patterns
  10. Hardening DNS settings against cache poisoning attacks
  11. Enforcing endpoint protection with real-time scanning
  12. Configuring IPS signatures to detect known exploit patterns
Module 7. Risk Assessment and Continuous Monitoring
Institutionalize ongoing risk evaluation and control validation to stay ahead of evolving threats and compliance expectations.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Conducting annual risk assessments with documented methodology
  2. Identifying threat sources relevant to defense sector targets
  3. Estimating likelihood and impact using qualitative scales
  4. Prioritizing risks based on mission-critical dependencies
  5. Assigning risk treatment options: accept, transfer, mitigate
  6. Scheduling continuous monitoring checks by control family
  7. Leveraging automated tools to verify configuration states
  8. Updating risk registers when new systems go live
  9. Involving engineering leads in risk validation discussions
  10. Aligning monitoring frequency with data sensitivity levels
  11. Reporting findings to oversight bodies quarterly
  12. Using metrics to show trend improvement over time
Module 8. Security Assessment and Authorization
Prepare for formal assessments by validating controls internally and producing evidence that satisfies independent reviewers.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Planning assessments with clear timelines and resource needs
  2. Selecting qualified assessors with DoD clearance experience
  3. Running internal gap analyses six months before audit
  4. Collecting implementation evidence by control number
  5. Organizing documentation in assessor-friendly formats
  6. Resolving minor deficiencies before formal engagement
  7. Hosting entrance conferences with full team representation
  8. Responding to assessor inquiries within 24 business hours
  9. Addressing findings with corrective action plans
  10. Verifying closure of all POA&M items post-assessment
  11. Archiving assessment reports for future reference
  12. Using feedback to improve next cycle preparation
Module 9. Configuration Management Best Practices
Maintain baseline configurations and change control processes that prevent unauthorized modifications and ensure stability.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Establishing secure baselines for operating systems and apps
  2. Using automated tools to enforce configuration standards
  3. Approving changes through a formal review board process
  4. Testing changes in isolated environments before deployment
  5. Rolling back failed updates within defined SLAs
  6. Maintaining CMDB accuracy with automatic discovery tools
  7. Tracking software versions and patch levels centrally
  8. Limiting admin rights to authorized personnel only
  9. Documenting rationale for all approved deviations
  10. Validating backups before major configuration updates
  11. Scheduling maintenance windows to minimize disruption
  12. Auditing configuration drift monthly with exception reports
Module 10. Personnel Security and Training
Ensure staff understand their responsibilities through onboarding, role-specific training, and periodic reinforcement.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Conducting background checks prior to CUI access grants
  2. Delivering initial security awareness within first week
  3. Providing role-based training for developers and admins
  4. Covering phishing recognition and social engineering tactics
  5. Requiring annual refresher courses with knowledge checks
  6. Documenting training completion for audit purposes
  7. Handling suspensions and terminations with access revocation
  8. Managing third-party personnel with equivalent standards
  9. Reinforcing policies through simulated phishing campaigns
  10. Tracking insider threat indicators proactively
  11. Updating training content after policy or control changes
  12. Measuring effectiveness through quiz pass rates and behavior shifts
Module 11. Physical and Environmental Protection
Secure facilities housing CUI through access controls, surveillance, and environmental safeguards.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Controlling facility access with badge systems and logs
  2. Positioning cameras to monitor entry points and server rooms
  3. Storing media in locked cabinets with key control
  4. Preventing tailgating with mantrap entrances where feasible
  5. Protecting equipment from water, fire, and power loss
  6. Maintaining UPS systems and backup generators
  7. Marking sensitive areas with signage and lighting
  8. Allowing access only to personnel with legitimate need
  9. Inspecting visitor logs weekly for anomalies
  10. Coordinating cleaning staff access with supervision
  11. Securing outdoor enclosures against tampering
  12. Testing disaster recovery plans biannually
Module 12. Maintenance and Developer Security Integration
Ensure system upkeep and software development follow secure practices that preserve control integrity over time.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Scheduling regular patching cycles with minimal downtime
  2. Validating patches in test environments before rollout
  3. Using signed updates to prevent malware injection
  4. Maintaining vendor support contracts for critical systems
  5. Tracking open-source components with SBOMs
  6. Applying secure coding standards across development teams
  7. Performing static and dynamic code analysis routinely
  8. Including security reviews in pull request gates
  9. Enforcing input validation to prevent injection flaws
  10. Integrating DevSecOps pipelines with automated scanning
  11. Training developers on OWASP Top Ten vulnerabilities
  12. Conducting architecture reviews before major releases

How this maps to your situation

  • Preparing for CMMC Level 2 assessment
  • Reducing rework during prime contractor audits
  • Improving cross-functional alignment on control ownership
  • Building confidence in direct technical contributions

Before vs. after

Before
Spending weeks reconciling control mappings under audit pressure, relying on tribal knowledge and last-minute fixes.
After
Walking into reviews with fully documented, self-validating implementations that withstand prime contractor scrutiny.

What's included with your purchase

  • 12 modules with 12 chapters each (144 chapters)
  • Downloadable templates and worked examples for every module
  • Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Delivery and format

  • Course and learning environment access provisioned within 24 hours of purchase
  • Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access

Format: Text-based modules and chapters in the Art of Service learning environment, plus downloadable templates and worked examples for every chapter, plus the hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.

Time investment: 90 minutes per week over four weeks, designed for deep focus during weekend blocks.

If nothing changes
Without structured mastery, even technically sound controls can fail review due to presentation gaps, leading to delayed certifications and lost credibility in technical leadership.

How this compares to the alternatives

Generic NIST overviews lack defense-specific context; internal training moves too slowly; consultants charge $5k+ for similar frameworks. This course delivers precision knowledge at practitioner scale.

Frequently asked

Is this aligned with CMMC 2.0 requirements?
Yes, all content maps directly to NIST 800-171 Rev 2, which forms the foundation of CMMC Level 2.
How is the course structured?
12 modules, each containing 12 chapters (144 chapters total).
Can I share this with my team?
Each enrollment is individual. Team licenses are available upon request.
$199 one-time. 90 minutes per week over four weeks, designed for deep focus during weekend blocks..

Within 24 hours your account in the learning environment is provisioned and the tailored implementation playbook is delivered alongside it.

30-day money-back guarantee· 144 chapters· Hand-built playbook included· Account access within 24 hours
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