Hands-On Labs: The Key to Accelerating CMMC 2.0 Compliance

INE Security Highlights How Practical, immersive training environments help defense contractors meet DoD cybersecurity requirements

Defense contractors are facing increased pressure to meet the Department of Defense’s stringent Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 requirements ahead of 2025 compliance deadlines. INE Security, a leading global provider of cybersecurity training and certifications, is highlighting how hands-on cybersecurity labs are proving critical for organizations seeking to achieve compliance efficiently and effectively.

This approach addresses a significant pain point for CISOs and security leaders: the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation of complex cybersecurity controls required by CMMC 2.0.

“Organizations too often find that traditional compliance training approaches fall short when it comes to actual implementation,” said Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. “Hands-on labs create immersive, real-world scenarios that transform theoretical understanding into practical readiness. This isn’t just about checking compliance boxes—it’s about building the muscle memory and technical skills needed to protect sensitive defense information against sophisticated threats.”

Bridging the Implementation Gap

Recent industry data shows that organizations pursuing CMMC certification face significant challenges moving from documentation to implementation, particularly at Level 2 (Advanced), which requires adherence to 110 security controls from NIST SP 800-171.

Effective hands-on cybersecurity training can bridge this implementation gap through:

• Real-world simulation environments that mirror the actual systems and scenarios that security teams will encounter
• Scenario-based training focused on the most challenging CMMC control families, including access control, incident response, and system/communications protection
• Progressive skill development that builds competency across all three CMMC 2.0 levels

“The stakes for noncompliance are too high to rely on passive learning methods,” continued Warn. “Organizations that invest in hands-on training and can demonstrate not just knowledge but practical capability will achieve certification faster and maintain a stronger security posture long-term.”

Accelerating Compliance Timelines

INE Security’s hands-on lab capabilities enable security teams to achieve comprehensive training for CMMC readiness through:

• Learning Paths and Courses: Building foundational knowledge with CMMC-aligned learning paths that systematically cover required security domains, specialized courses targeting CMMC practices and processes, and expert-led instruction.
• Skill Sonar: Identifying knowledge and skill gaps through INE Security’s assessment tool, which delivers baseline assessments across cybersecurity domains, gap analysis to pinpoint soft areas, and targeted recommendations to guide upskilling.
• Skill Dive: Developing practical implementation skills with hands-on practice in interactive lab environments, “live fire” exercises that simulate CMMC control implementation challenges, and practical experience responding to threats.

For CISOs managing the CMMC compliance process, this combination creates a comprehensive approach to CMMC preparation, translating to more predictable certification timelines, reduced remediation costs, and higher first-time pass rates.

Implementing Hands-On CMMC Training

Organizations at any stage of their CMMC compliance journey can benefit from incorporating hands-on labs into their training programs. For more information about how hands-on cybersecurity labs can accelerate your CMMC compliance journey, visit https://learn.ine.com/brand/cmmc.

About INE Security

INE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s cybersecurity certifications are requested by HR departments worldwide, and its suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career. 

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