How to Secure Your Exostar for DFARS and Get the Compliance Badge/Seal

 

If you’re working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) or its suppliers, you’ve likely come across the terms Exostar, DFARS, and the need for compliance. Understanding how to secure your Exostar account for DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement) and how to get the official DFARS badge/seal is essential for staying in business with defense partners.

• What is Exostar? Exostar is a secure cloud-based platform that connects defense contractors and suppliers, helping manage compliance with federal cybersecurity requirements (like DFARS and NIST 800-171).
• What is DFARS? DFARS governs how defense-related information must be protected. For most, it’s about DFARS 252.204-7012—which tells you to implement the security controls from NIST SP 800-171, protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

To pass an Exostar DFARS review and earn your compliance badge/seal, here are the specific steps and requirements:

• Know your CUI: First, identify what Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) you handle (drawings, technical data, contract info, etc.)—this tells you what systems, users, and processes must be protected.
• Understand the 14 Control Families from NIST 800-171: You must comply with 110 security controls, covering areas like access control, physical security, audit and accountability, incident response, and more.
• Use Exostar’s Partner Information Manager (PIM): Most companies receive a DFARS/NIST assessment request through Exostar’s PIM tool. This is where you fill out your answers showing how you comply with each NIST security control. Be detailed and honest—auditors check your responses.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): For Exostar access, enabling MFA is a basic requirement. This means logging in not just with a password, but also a code sent to your phone or generated by a security device. Exostar usually requires hardware or software tokens for strong security.
• Access Controls and Least Privilege: Limit access to CUI: only approved users should see controlled data or systems. Use Exostar’s user management tools to remove inactive users immediately.
• System Security and Encryption: Ensure your devices, servers, and network tools are protected. Encrypt all sensitive files and traffic, both at rest (stored) and in transit (moving), especially when using Exostar applications.
• Policies and Documentation: Have written cybersecurity policies covering incident response (what to do if hacked), system monitoring, password management, and regular reviews. You’ll need to show these to auditors and upload some to Exostar as part of your DFARS badge application.
• Incident Response and Reporting: Be ready to detect, respond to, and report security incidents involving CUI—within 72 hours if something significant happens. This means having monitoring tools and clear steps written out.
• Continuous Monitoring and Training: Regularly update software, check logs for suspicious activity, and train employees on security best practices and phishing awareness.

How to Get the DFARS Badge/Seal Through Exostar

• Complete the Exostar NIST/DFARS Assessment: Log in to your Exostar account, find your compliance tasks, and honestly answer every question in the DFARS/NIST template. Provide evidence when prompted (like screenshots, policy docs, or logs).
• Address All Gaps: If you’re non-compliant in any area, create a System Security Plan (SSP) and a Plan of Actions & Milestones (POA&M)—these outline what’s missing and when you’ll fix it. Upload these as supporting documents if you’re not fully compliant yet.
• Pass Exostar/Auditor Review: Exostar or the defense prime may review your submission and ask for clarifications. Be ready to provide evidence promptly.
• Badge/Seal Issued: When you meet all Exostar and DFARS/NIST requirements (or have an approved POA&M), Exostar updates your status and issues a digital badge or seal. This shows partners and customers you’re DFARS-compliant and eligible for contract work.

What’s Most Important to Pass the Audit:

• Accurate and complete NIST 800-171 assessment responses
• Documented security policies and plans
• Real, implemented controls—not just plans or promises
• Strong user controls (MFA, least privilege, removed old accounts)
• Fast, accurate incident detection and reporting processes

Getting Expert Help:
If you’re unsure where to start, or want independent readiness assessment and guidance, OCD Tech specializes in helping organizations secure Exostar for DFARS compliance, fill out the Exostar assessment, close security gaps, and prepare for audits—maximizing your chances of quickly achieving your DFARS badge or seal.

Bottom Line:
Securing your Exostar account for DFARS isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about building a real, working cybersecurity program to protect sensitive defense data. Use Exostar’s tools, follow NIST 800-171 controls, keep your documentation updated, and consider working with experts like OCD Tech to ensure you pass the audit and get your Exostar DFARS compliance badge or seal.