SSP explained
What is an SSP? Building a System Security Plan
A System Security Plan describes the system boundary and how security requirements are implemented. Generating a draft does not prove the controls work.
What belongs in it
Describe the environment, connected systems, people responsible, service providers and implementation of requirements. NIST provides a template, but the required information matters more than a particular format.
Review before approval
Complete Scope, check the assessment findings, then review the generated document for missing or inaccurate statements. Draft text must match the actual environment. Keep supporting evidence in its approved storage location and reference it clearly.
Approval has a limited meaning
Approving a document records acceptance of that version inside UpCISO. It does not confirm every assessment finding or establish official CMMC status. Revisit the plan when the environment changes.
A practical example
Example: if a managed service provider administers your user accounts, describe that service, the systems it can access, and which responsibilities remain with your team. Reference the supporting agreement and evidence instead of treating the supplier name as proof.
Official sources
Reviewed 2026-09-22. Check current sources and your contract when making assessment or eligibility decisions.