The Fiber Boom in Michigan

by Jacob Acker | Mar 15, 2025 | Fiber

Michigan’s fiber revolution is gaining momentum, bringing high-speed, gigabit broadband to more businesses and homes than ever before. With significant investments from both private and public sectors, cities like Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Lansing, and even more rural areas are seeing rapid fiber deployment.

One major contributor to this expansion is Spectrum, which recently announced a significant broadband rollout in Ottawa County, providing thousands of residents and businesses with access to high-speed fiber internet.

Driving Forces Behind Michigan’s Fiber Growth

Several factors are accelerated fiber deployment across the state:

Increased Demand for Reliable Internet – With more businesses shifting to cloud-based operations and remote work, high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
Public & Private Investments – Companies like Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, and Metronet are investing heavily in Michigan’s fiber infrastructure, while government-backed initiatives are helping broadband access to underserved areas.
Rural Connectivity Efforts – Fiber isn’t just growing into metro hubs – expansion projects, like Spectrum’s rollout in Ottawa County, are bringing high-speed connectivity to rural and suburban communities.

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Spectrum’s Expansion in Ottawa County

Spectrum’s latest broadband expansion is a game-changer for Michigan’s west side. The project, funded in part by the Connecting Michigan Communities (CMIC) Grant Program, aims to bring gigabit-speed internet to thousands of homes and businesses. The new infrastructure includes:

Rural Connectivity – Expanding broadband access to areas that have historically lacked reliable high-speed options.
Improved Business Capabilities – Small business and entrepreneurs in Ottawa County now have access to enterprise-level internet speeds, making it easier to compete in today’s digital economy.

This expansion is just one piece of Michigan’s larger fiber-optic movement, which is reshaping the connectivity landscape across the state.

The Future of Fiber in Michigan

With projects like Spectrum’s expansion in Ottawa County, Michigan is proving that fiber connectivity isn’t just for large metro areas. The state is investing in high-speed internet for businesses, residents, and rural communities alike—helping to close the digital divide and position Michigan as a leader in next-generation connectivity.

As fiber continues to expand, businesses and residents should take advantage of these new opportunities to future-proof their operations, enhance digital experiences, and stay competitive in an increasingly connected world. The fiber boom in Michigan is just beginning.

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Source: https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/spectrum-expands-gigabit-broadband-in-ottawa-county-michigan

Why IT Companies Are Missing Out on CMMC Revenue

by Jacob Acker | Mar 13, 2025 | Compliance, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Compliance

The demand for CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance is growing rapidly as defense contractors and suppliers scramble to meet the Department of Defense (DoD) requirements. Yet, many IT service providers—especially MSPs (Managed Service Providers) and MSSPs (Managed Security Service Providers)—are missing out on a major revenue stream because they haven’t developed the capability to offer CMMC compliance services.

The Growing Market for CMMC Compliance

CMMC compliance is now a must-have for companies working with the DoD. Thousands of businesses in the defense supply chain must meet CMMC requirements, and they need IT providers who can help them navigate the complex process.

The issue? Many IT companies don’t have the knowledge, resources, or personnel to deliver these compliance services. Instead of capturing this lucrative market, they are referring clients elsewhere—or worse, losing business to competitors who have adapted.

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Why IT Companies Are Missing Out

1. Lack of In-House CMMC Expertise

CMMC compliance isn’t just about cybersecurity—it’s about understanding a structured compliance framework. Many IT service providers are well-versed in cybersecurity best practices but lack knowledge of CMMC’s specific controls, documentation requirements, and assessment processes.

Without an in-house compliance expert, IT companies struggle to provide CMMC assessments, gap analyses, or readiness plans.
Building a CMMC compliance practice from scratch requires training, hiring, and certification costs—resources many IT providers are hesitant to allocate.

2. Losing Clients Who Need Compliance Solutions

Companies in the DoD supply chain need both IT services and CMMC compliance. If your IT company doesn’t provide CMMC services, your competitors will—and once a client finds an all-in-one provider, they may move all of their business there, including standard IT support.

IT firms that fail to offer CMMC compliance alongside cybersecurity services risk losing long-term clients.
Competitors who bundle compliance with IT services are securing multi-year contracts while others are left behind.

3. Assuming CMMC is Too Complicated to Offer

Many IT companies assume that offering CMMC services is too complex or that they must become a C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization) to enter the market. This misconception leads to IT providers avoiding the opportunity altogether.

The reality? You don’t need to become a C3PAO to generate revenue from CMMC.
IT companies can partner with a specialized CMMC compliance provider like ICS Data (i.e. Cyber Harbor) to offer CMMC services without the need to build an in-house compliance team.

How IT Companies Can Capture CMMC Revenue

If your IT company isn’t offering CMMC solutions, you’re leaving money on the table. The good news? You don’t need to develop a CMMC practice from scratch.

1. Partner with a CMMC Compliance Provider

Instead of turning away CMMC opportunities, team up with a dedicated compliance provider. A partner like Cyber Harbor can handle CMMC assessments, documentation, and certification prep under your brand, allowing you to offer CMMC services without the overhead.

2. Offer CMMC Compliance as a Service (CaaS)

By bundling CMMC compliance with your IT services, you can offer a recurring revenue model where clients pay for continuous monitoring, policy updates, and compliance management.

3. Target the Right Clients

IT companies should proactively market CMMC services to:

Existing clients in the DoD supply chain who must meet CMMC requirements.
New prospects in manufacturing, aerospace, and government contracting who need compliance solutions.

Don’t Let CMMC Revenue Slip Away

CMMC compliance is a high-growth market, and IT providers that adapt will win bigger contracts, strengthen client relationships, and grow revenue.

If you don’t have the internal expertise to offer CMMC, ICS Data (i.e. Cyber Harbor) can help. Partner with us and start monetizing CMMC compliance today—without the complexity.

Contact us to learn how to add CMMC compliance to your service offerings today!

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Multi-Factor Authentication Best Practices and Step-by-Step Implementation

by Jacob Acker | Jan 25, 2025 | Multi-Factor Authentication

Best Practices and Step-by-Step Implementation

MFA enhances security by requiring multiple factors to verify user identity, such as passwords, hardware keys, or biometrics. By blocking 99.9% of automated attacks, MFA safeguards sensitive data, ensures compliance with standards like GDPR and HIPAA, and protects against threats like phishing and brute-force attacks.

Best Practices for MFA

Enable MFA Everywhere: Start with critical accounts (e.g., admin credentials) and gradually expand to all users.
Choose Secure Methods: Use hardware keys (e.g., YubiKey) for phishing-resistant authentication.
Integrate with SSO: Combine MFA with single sign-on to simplify logins and enhance user experience.
Educate Users: Provide clear training and ongoing support to reduce friction during adoption.
Monitor and Adapt: Regularly review access logs and update policies to counter evolving threats.

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How to Implement MFA

1. For Windows Logins:

Use Windows Hello for Business:
- Enable biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition in Windows Settings > Accounts > Sign-in Options.
- Ensure devices have compatible hardware, such as fingerprint scanners or IR cameras.
Integrate with Azure Active Directory (Azure AD):
- Go to the Azure AD Admin Center and configure MFA policies under Security > Multi-Factor Authentication.
- Apply conditional access rules to enforce MFA for specific users or devices.
Add Hardware Keys:
- Deploy FIDO2-compliant devices like YubiKey for phishing-resistant logins.
- Set up hardware keys in Windows Hello settings for seamless integration.

2. For Cloud Services:

Microsoft 365:
- Enable MFA in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center and configure conditional access policies via Azure AD.
Google Workspace:
- In the Admin Console, navigate to Security > Authentication and enable 2-Step Verification.
- Choose between app-based tokens, SMS codes, or hardware keys for additional layers of security.
AWS:
- Use the IAM Console to enable MFA for user accounts, selecting virtual tokens or hardware devices for authentication.

3. For Single Sign-On (SSO):

Centralize authentication using SSO providers like Okta, Ping Identity, or OneLogin.
Pair SSO with MFA by configuring SSO portals to require MFA during login.
Use Azure AD to integrate SSO across cloud services and enforce MFA seamlessly.

MFA Options

Hardware Keys (e.g., YubiKey): Offer the highest level of security, resistant to phishing and easy to use with Windows Hello and cloud services.
Touch Devices: Hardware tokens with touch functionality provide secure and user-friendly verification.
Biometrics: Fast and convenient options like fingerprints or facial recognition offer strong security but may raise privacy concerns.

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Why West Michigan Manufacturing Companies Trusts ICS Data for CMMC Compliance

by Jacob Acker | Jan 15, 2025 | Compliance, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Compliance

Achieving Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 compliance is critical for West Michigan manufacturers working in or with the defense industry. At ICS Data, we combine decades of industry expertise with a client-first approach to provide unparalleled support on your compliance journey.

1. Expertise Rooted in Manufacturing

With over 30 years of experience as a Managed Service Provider for the manufacturing sector, we understand the unique challenges you face. Uptime, reliability, and profitability are priorities that cannot be compromised—even as you meet complex compliance requirements.

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2. Affordable, Tailored Solutions

Compliance doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing monthly costs. We deliver solutions customized to your needs, avoiding cookie-cutter approaches that don’t fit your operations. Our focus is on maximizing the value of your existing resources and team while implementing cost-effective technical controls.

3. Policy-First Approach

When possible, we prioritize addressing policy over implementing technical controls. This strategy ensures compliance is achieved without unnecessary investment in new systems—saving you time and money while leveraging your current infrastructure.

4. Comprehensive Coverage

Our solutions cover all 110 NIST Controls, giving you peace of mind that your business is fully prepared to meet CMMC 2.0 standards. Whether you’re aiming for Level 1, Level 2, or higher compliance, we provide the tools and expertise you need.

5. Dual-Layered Gap Analysis for Maximum Insight

Our gap analysis process is led by both a Certified CMMC Professional (technical resource) and a Certified CMMC Assessor (policy resource). This dual-layered approach ensures you receive a thorough evaluation of your compliance gaps and clear guidance on how to address them effectively.

Partner with ICS Data in 2025

When it comes to CMMC 2.0 compliance, ICS Data is the trusted partner for West Michigan businesses. We understand your industry, deliver tailored solutions, and offer the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity compliance—all while keeping your operations running smoothly.

Contact us today to start your CMMC compliance journey.

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CMMC 2.0 – Now Live in 2025

by Jacob Acker | Jan 10, 2025 | Compliance, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Compliance

As of 2025, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 is officially live, marking a significant step in strengthening cybersecurity across the defense supply chain. For businesses working with the Department of Defense (DoD), compliance with CMMC 2.0 is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. We’re here to help you navigate this essential transition.

What is CMMC 2.0?

CMMC 2.0 simplifies and refines the original framework, focusing on protecting sensitive data while reducing compliance burdens. The model introduces three certification levels, each tailored to the type and sensitivity of information a contractor handles. Whether your organization processes Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) or Federal Contract Information (FCI), CMMC 2.0 ensures the proper cybersecurity standards are in place.

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Why It Matters in 2025

Compliance with CMMC 2.0 is now a contractual requirement for DoD contractors and subcontractors. Failing to meet these standards could result in lost contracts or being excluded from bidding opportunities. Moreover, the implementation of CMMC 2.0 underscores the DoD’s commitment to securing the defense industrial base against evolving cyber threats.

How We Can Help

At ICS Data and Cyber Harbor, we specialize in guiding organizations through the complexities of cybersecurity compliance. Our team provides:

Readiness Assessments: Evaluate your current cybersecurity posture against CMMC 2.0 requirements.
Compliance Strategies: Tailored roadmaps to achieve certification efficiently.
Continuous Support: Tools and expertise to maintain compliance and safeguard your systems.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The rollout of CMMC 2.0 is a critical opportunity to strengthen your organization’s cybersecurity while staying competitive in the defense industry. ICS Data and Cyber Harbor are your trusted partners in achieving compliance and protecting your business from emerging threats.

Contact us today to get started on your CMMC 2.0 journey.

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