For small businesses working with the U.S. Department of Defense, using shared or multi-tenant environments in the cloud can be a double-edged sword. While they offer cost savings and scalability, these setups may introduce compliance risks that are often overlooked.
In a multi-tenant environment, several organizations share the same cloud infrastructure. While logical separation exists, the shared nature means there’s a higher burden to ensure compliance with strict standards like CMMC. Contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) must guarantee that sensitive data isn't at risk of exposure due to how resources are partitioned.
One way to mitigate this is by adopting a CMMC enclave—a secure, purpose-built environment designed specifically for handling CUI. Unlike broader cloud setups, an enclave helps isolate sensitive systems, allowing organizations to focus security and compliance efforts on a well-defined segment.
As regulations tighten, contractors should carefully evaluate whether multi-tenant services align with their responsibilities. A tailored enclave may offer the clarity and control needed for long-term compliance.