Understanding Specialized Assets in CMMCASpecialized Assetis defined asa system, device, or infrastructure component that is not a traditional IT system but still plays a role in cybersecurity or business operations.
Types of Specialized Assets (as per CMMC guidance):#Operational Technology (OT)- Industrial control systems, SCADA systems.
#Security Operations Centers (SOCs)- Dedicated cybersecurity monitoring and response centers.
#IoT Devices- Smart sensors, embedded systems.
#Restricted IT Systems- Systems with highly controlled access.
A). SOCs # Correct
Security Operations Centers (SOCs) are specialized cybersecurity environmentsused forthreat monitoring, detection, and response.
They oftenoperate outside standard IT infrastructureand are classified asspecialized assetsunder CMMC.
B). Hosted VPN services # Incorrect
VPN services are standard IT infrastructureanddo not qualify as specialized assets.
C). Consultants who provide cybersecurity services # Incorrect
Consultants are personnel, not specialized assets. Specialized assets refer tosystems, devices, or infrastructure.
D). All property owned or leased by the government # Incorrect
Government property is not automatically considered a specialized assetunder CMMC. Specialized assets refer tospecific IT or cybersecurity-related infrastructure.
Why is the Correct Answer "SOCs" (A)?
CMMC 2.0 Assessment Process (CAP) Document
DefinesSpecialized Assetsand includesSOCsin its examples.
CMMC-AB Guidelines
Listssecurity infrastructure like SOCsasSpecialized Assetsdue to their unique cybersecurity function.
NIST SP 800-171 & CMMC 2.0 Security Domains
Recognizesdedicated security monitoring environmentsas part of an organization's cybersecurity posture.
CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer
Final Answer#A. SOCs (Security Operations Centers)