How should reviews of maintenance activities be conducted according to CMMC standards?

Regular reviews of maintenance activities are essential in ensuring compliance with Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards. Conducting these reviews regularly and according to established procedures ensures that organizations maintain a consistent and proactive approach to managing their systems' health and security. This structured methodology allows organizations to identify and address potential vulnerabilities or performance issues before they escalate into more serious problems, thereby minimizing risks.

Establishing procedures for these reviews also ensures that they are methodical and thorough, fostering accountability and traceability in the maintenance process. Regular assessments based on defined criteria help in adhering to best practices and aligning with CMMC requirements, ultimately supporting the organization's overall cybersecurity posture.

While other methods, such as ad-hoc reviews or solely responding to incidents, might seem practical under certain circumstances, they do not provide the systematic oversight necessary for ongoing compliance and risk management. Additionally, relying solely on external auditors for reviews can create gaps in accountability and responsiveness, as internal team members may have more intimate knowledge of operational nuances.