Data Classification

Data classification is the process of categorizing your organization's data based on its sensitivity level and the protection it requires. Classification schemes typically include levels like Public, Internal, Confidential, and Restricted (or government equivalents like Unclassified, CUI, Confidential, Secret, Top Secret).

Proper data classification is the foundation of effective data protection — you can't protect data appropriately if you don't know how sensitive it is. Classification drives security controls: CUI requires specific protections under CMMC, classified data requires even stricter controls, and public data needs minimal protection.

Why It Matters

You can't meet CMMC requirements if you don't know where your CUI is. Data classification — identifying what data you have, how sensitive it is, and where it lives — is a prerequisite for scoping your CUI environment and applying appropriate protections.