GCC vs. GCC High for CMMC Level 2

Author: Antonio Pampena 

For companies in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) aiming to meet Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2, understanding the differences between Microsoft’s Government Community Cloud (GCC) and GCC High is essential. Many of our clients and prospects ask if GCC, the more affordable option, can meet CMMC standards. While GCC offers a lot of compliance features, it has limitations that can create issues for contractors aiming for CMMC L2 certification, particularly in the areas of export-controlled Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

This post explores how GCC and GCC High differ in their suitability for CMMC Level 2, with a focus on where GCC may be sufficient and where it falls short. We’ll also provide examples of when GCC might work and when GCC High is essential.

Understanding the Compliance Capabilities of GCC vs. GCC High 

Microsoft GCC: Budget-Friendly, but not CMMC Level 2 Ready

Microsoft GCC is primarily designed to meet the needs of U.S. government agencies and contractors handling less-sensitive data. It offers several core security and compliance features, making it a suitable option for companies that strictly handle CUI Basic. However, it does not cover all the requirements for managing and protecting certain types of CUI. For companies handling DoD-related information, especially under the finalized requirements of CFR 32 Part 170, GCC has some limitations that could impact your CMMC Level 2 compliance journey:

Where Microsoft GCC Falls Short for CMMC and ITAR:  

• Export-Controlled and ITAR Limitations: Unlike GCC High, GCC is not built for handling export-controlled data, like CUI Special or ITAR-regulated data. This can create difficulties when companies need to protect export-controlled information as mandated under ITAR or CMMC contracts.

• Data Residency & Access Risks: While GCC does include some data residency within the continental U.S., its handling of data access and control is less restrictive than GCC High. The GCC environment permits access to data by personnel outside the U.S., which can be a compliance issue if handling certain types of CUI or export-controlled data.

• Limited FedRAMP and CMMC Alignment: While GCC aligns with several government compliance standards, it does not cover what some consider the proper scope of requirements and capabilities necessary for CMMC Level 2. For instance, it lacks FedRAMP High accreditation, which is increasingly viewed as a baseline for DoD contractors handling more sensitive information, such as CUI Specified or Export Controlled data.

Is Microsoft GCC right for you?

If your organization doesn’t handle CUI or ITAR-regulated data, GCC may provide a cost-effective cloud solution. But for defense contractors working toward CMMC Level 2 compliance, it likely won’t meet the necessary cybersecurity and regulatory thresholds.

Microsoft GCC High: Built for DIB Contractors

GCC High, on the other hand, is designed specifically to meet the stringent requirements of defense contractors working with sensitive DoD information. Here’s how it addresses the gaps in GCC:

• CUI and ITAR Compliance: GCC High is the only Microsoft cloud solution, aside from DoD-level environments, that meets ITAR data handling requirements. It ensures that only U.S. persons can access sensitive data and that data remains within the U.S., which is critical for maintaining CMMC Level 2 compliance.

• Stricter Data Residency Controls: GCC High restricts data access and storage to the U.S., meaning that only U.S.-based support personnel with proper clearances can access data. This restriction is key for companies dealing with DoD contracts and handling CUI Specified/Export Controlled data and is a major reason why GCC can fall short.

• Comprehensive Compliance Support: GCC High meets FedRAMP High and DoD SRG (Security Requirements Guide) Level 4 and Level 5 requirements, which are essential for companies managing sensitive government data. It includes extensive auditing capabilities and secure access controls that facilitate compliance with both CMMC Level 2 and ITAR requirements.

Is GCC High Required for Your Organization?

If your company processes export-controlled data, handles CUI, or supports DoD programs, opting for GCC High isn’t just following best practice; it’s aligning with an unbiased subconscious requirement. Choosing the wrong cloud could put your contract eligibility and compliance status at risk, at best.

Practical Examples: When GCC Might Work—and When GCC High is a Must

Here are three scenarios that illustrate when GCC might suffice and when GCC High becomes essential:

Scenario 1: Non-CUI or Only CUI Basic Handling Roles

A contractor provides IT support services to the DoD but does not handle or store any data beyond CUI Basic. Their role is strictly administrative, involving scheduling and managing low-sensitivity communications without access to sensitive information. In this case, GCC could be a viable option. Since there’s no handling of Export Controlled Data, CUI Specified, or ITAR data, the limited controls of GCC might meet their compliance needs. However, if the contractor’s scope expands to include any handling of Export Controlled Data, GCC High would likely become necessary.

Scenario 2: Engineering and Design Firm for Defense Systems

A company contracted to work on defense technology designs containing CUI or export-controlled information falls under ITAR and CFR 32 Part 170 requirements. This firm needs to ensure that sensitive data remains within U.S. borders and is handled only by U.S. persons. In this case, GCC High is the only appropriate option of the two. Attempting to meet CMMC Level 2 compliance using GCC could expose them to significant compliance and security risks due to its lack of ITAR-level safeguards.

Scenario 3: Marketing and Public Relations Firm for a Defense Contractor

A marketing agency manages public relations and marketing for a DoD contractor, but is only involved with unclassified, public information that does not contain any sensitive data or CUI. Their responsibilities may include handling publicly releasable case studies, press releases, and basic project updates with limited access to the contractor’s infrastructure. For this scenario, GCC could meet the company’s needs, as it provides baseline security and compliance features without the ITAR and CUI safeguards of GCC High. However, if this firm’s scope evolves to include handling more restrictive controlled information, a transition to GCC High would be warranted to ensure compliance.

Conclusion: GCC or GCC High?

While GCC may seem like an attractive, cost-effective option, it’s essential to weigh the compliance limitations that could pose significant hurdles during certification and audits. For most contractors handling sensitive DoD information or export-controlled data, GCC High provides the required compliance infrastructure to help meet CMMC Level 2, ITAR, and other regulatory needs. It’s crucial to understand the types of data you handle and to consider your future business goals when deciding between the two.

If you’re navigating CMMC certification or have questions about which Microsoft environment suits your business, reach out to us. We can guide you toward a cloud strategy that supports compliance and aligns with your long-term goals.

Key Takeaways:

• Compliance Alignment: Only GCC High meets the rigorous requirements of FedRAMP High, DoD SRG Levels 4/5, and supports ITAR and DFARS 252.204-7012 obligations.

• Risk Avoidance: Attempting to certify in an insufficient cloud environment can lead to audit delays, contract risk, or disqualification.

• Scalability and Future Readiness: As your organization grows, so does your exposure to sensitive data. GCC High provides the compliance runway you need for long-term success in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).

Need Help Mapping the Right Cloud Strategy?

Whether you’re just starting your CMMC journey or planning to scale your compliance operations, we can help you assess risk, reduce uncertainty, and build a Microsoft 365 cloud environment that aligns with your mission.

Let’s discuss a cloud strategy that supports both compliance and growth—so you’re not just checking boxes, you’re securing your future.