MSP

Microsoft GCC High Licensing Costs

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GCC High licensing is generally more expensive than both commercial and GCC environments due to the additional security controls, segregated infrastructure, and compliance assurances provided.

Cost drivers for GCC High include:

  • Specialized government cloud infrastructure
  • U.S.-based data residency and screened U.S. personnel access
  • Limited service availability compared to commercial environments
  • Increased administrative and operational overhead

GCC High licenses are available only after Microsoft eligibility approval and are typically procured through authorized government cloud resellers.

Security and Compliance Feature Considerations

Organizations should carefully evaluate which security and compliance features are required to meet contractual obligations.

Higher-tier licenses may be necessary to support:

  • Advanced threat detection and response
  • Identity governance and privileged access management
  • Audit logging and eDiscovery
  • Continuous compliance reporting

Selecting licenses without aligning them to compliance requirements can result in unexpected costs or gaps in control coverage.

Request your GCC or GCCH License Quote from [email protected]

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Understanding the Requirements to Qualify for Microsoft GCC and GCC High

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Organizations that work with United States government agencies or handle sensitive government data often require cloud environments that meet elevated security and compliance standards. Microsoft offers two specialized government cloud environments to support these needs: Government Community Cloud (GCC) and Government Community Cloud High (GCC High).

While both environments are designed for regulated workloads, not every organization is eligible to use them. Understanding the qualification requirements is a critical first step before planning a migration or modernization effort.

This article outlines the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and compliance considerations for organizations seeking to adopt GCC or GCC High.

Overview of Microsoft Government Cloud Environments

Microsoft’s government cloud offerings are segmented to align with different levels of sensitivity and regulatory oversight.

GCC is designed for U.S. federal, state, local, and tribal government entities, as well as contractors that support them. GCC High is designed for organizations that handle highly sensitive data, including Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), Federal Contract Information (FCI), and export-controlled data.

Each environment operates within separate infrastructure and enforces specific access, residency, and compliance controls.

Eligibility Requirements for Microsoft GCC

To qualify for Microsoft GCC, an organization must meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Be a U.S. federal, state, local, or tribal government agency
  • Be a contractor or partner that supports U.S. government agencies
  • Be an organization that processes or stores government-regulated data on behalf of a public sector entity

In addition to organizational purpose, Microsoft requires that customers demonstrate a legitimate government use case for GCC services.

Verification and Documentation

Organizations seeking GCC access must complete Microsoft’s government cloud eligibility validation process. This typically includes:

  • Submission of organization details and government affiliation
  • Verification of contracts, grants, or partnerships with government entities
  • Validation of domain ownership and tenant information

Once approved, the organization may provision a GCC tenant and access supported Microsoft services within the government cloud environment.

Eligibility Requirements for Microsoft GCC High

GCC High has more stringent requirements due to the sensitivity of the data it is designed to protect.

To qualify for GCC High, an organization must meet at least one of the following conditions:

  • Be a U.S. federal agency or department
  • Be a defense contractor or subcontractor handling CUI or FCI
  • Be subject to regulations such as DFARS, ITAR, CMMC, or NIST SP 800-171
  • Handle export-controlled or law enforcement sensitive information

In addition, organizations must demonstrate that GCC High is required to meet contractual or regulatory obligations, not simply as a preference.

Citizenship and Data Residency Requirements

A defining characteristic of GCC High is that customer data is stored within the United States and managed by screened U.S. persons. Microsoft enforces strict access controls to ensure only authorized U.S. personnel can administer the environment.

Organizations must be prepared to align their own administrative access and support models with these requirements.

Contractual and Compliance Alignment

Eligibility alone is not sufficient to operate successfully in GCC or GCC High. Organizations must also demonstrate alignment with applicable compliance frameworks.

Common regulatory drivers include:

  • NIST SP 800-171 for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information
  • CMMC requirements for Defense Industrial Base contractors
  • DFARS clauses related to safeguarding government data
  • HIPAA and CJIS for organizations supporting healthcare or criminal justice workloads

Organizations should be prepared to map their security controls, policies, and procedures to these frameworks before and after migration.

Technical and Operational Readiness Considerations

Meeting GCC or GCC High requirements also involves operational readiness.

Organizations should evaluate their identity and access management practices, including the use of multi-factor authentication and privileged access controls. Endpoint security, logging, and incident response capabilities must align with government cloud expectations.

Additionally, not all third-party applications and integrations are compatible with GCC or GCC High. A thorough review of dependencies is required to avoid operational disruptions.

Approval Process and Timeline

Microsoft’s approval process for government cloud access is not instantaneous. Depending on organizational complexity and documentation readiness, approval can take several weeks.

Organizations should plan accordingly and avoid committing to aggressive migration timelines until eligibility has been confirmed and tenants are provisioned.

Common Misconceptions About GCC and GCC High

One common misconception is that any organization can choose GCC or GCC High for added security. In reality, access is restricted to organizations with verified government use cases.

Another misconception is that GCC High automatically ensures compliance. While the platform provides compliant infrastructure, organizations are still responsible for configuring controls, managing access, and maintaining compliance over time.

How Rolle IT Cybersecurity Helps Organizations Qualify and Succeed

Navigating GCC and GCC High eligibility can be complex, particularly for contractors and regulated organizations new to government cloud environments.

Rolle IT Cybersecurity assists organizations by validating eligibility, preparing documentation, aligning compliance requirements, and designing secure architectures tailored to GCC or GCC High. Our team supports organizations throughout the approval, migration, and operational phases to ensure long-term compliance and security.

Conclusion

Microsoft GCC and GCC High provide secure cloud environments tailored to the needs of government agencies and contractors, but access is limited to organizations that meet specific eligibility and compliance requirements.

By understanding qualification criteria, preparing documentation, and aligning security operations with regulatory standards, organizations can confidently adopt the appropriate government cloud environment to support their mission.

Organizations considering GCC or GCC High should engage experienced security and compliance partners early to reduce risk and accelerate success.

Important Notes on Eligibility Determination

  • Eligibility is determined by Microsoft and requires formal validation.
  • Preference for enhanced security alone is not sufficient justification.
  • Approval timelines may vary depending on documentation readiness and organizational complexity.
  • Eligibility does not guarantee compliance; proper configuration and ongoing governance are required.

Understanding the Requirements to Qualify for Microsoft GCC and GCC High Read More »

Supporting CJIS Compliance Audits: How Rolle IT Cybersecurity Partners With LASOs

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Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance is a critical requirement for law enforcement agencies and organizations that access, process, or store Criminal Justice Information (CJI). CJIS audits are designed to validate that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect sensitive criminal justice data from unauthorized access, misuse, or compromise.

For Local Agency Security Officers (LASOs), preparing for and managing a CJIS audit can be a complex and time-intensive responsibility. Rolle IT Cybersecurity partners with agencies to support LASOs throughout the entire CJIS audit lifecycle, including preparation, audit execution, and post-audit remediation.

Understanding the Importance of CJIS Compliance Audits

CJIS audits assess an agency’s adherence to the FBI CJIS Security Policy, which establishes minimum security requirements for personnel, information systems, and operational procedures. These audits typically evaluate controls related to access management, authentication, encryption, logging, incident response, physical security, and policy enforcement.

Failure to meet CJIS requirements can result in audit findings, corrective action plans, and in severe cases, suspension of access to CJIS systems. Proactive preparation and expert support significantly reduce audit risk and operational disruption.

Rolle IT’s Role in Supporting the Local Agency Security Officer

The LASO is responsible for ensuring CJIS compliance across their agency. Rolle IT Cybersecurity acts as a trusted extension of the LASO, providing technical expertise, documentation support, and audit coordination to simplify compliance management.

Our support is structured across three critical phases: audit preparation, audit support, and remediation.

Pre-Audit Preparation and Readiness Support

Effective CJIS audits begin long before auditors arrive. Rolle IT works with LASOs to establish audit readiness through structured preparation activities.

Key pre-audit services include:

  • Conducting CJIS gap assessments aligned to the current CJIS Security Policy
  • Reviewing technical controls across networks, endpoints, and cloud environments
  • Validating identity and access management controls, including multi-factor authentication
  • Assessing logging, monitoring, and incident response capabilities
  • Reviewing policies, procedures, and user access documentation
  • Assisting with background check validation and personnel security requirements

Rolle IT helps LASOs organize evidence, identify potential findings early, and address gaps proactively, reducing the likelihood of negative audit outcomes.

Support During the CJIS Audit

During the audit itself, LASOs are often required to respond to detailed technical and procedural questions while coordinating with auditors and internal stakeholders. Rolle IT provides real-time support to reduce pressure on agency staff and ensure accurate responses.

During the audit phase, Rolle IT assists by:

  • Supporting LASOs during auditor interviews and technical walkthroughs
  • Providing subject matter expertise on CJIS technical controls and configurations
  • Helping interpret auditor questions and compliance expectations
  • Assisting with evidence presentation and documentation validation
  • Clarifying how security tools and configurations meet CJIS requirements

This collaborative approach ensures auditors receive consistent, well-documented responses while allowing the LASO to maintain oversight and authority.

Post-Audit Remediation and Corrective Action Support

If audit findings are identified, Rolle IT supports the LASO through structured remediation and corrective action planning.

Post-audit services include:

  • Analyzing audit findings and mapping them to CJIS policy requirements
  • Developing remediation plans and corrective action documentation
  • Implementing or reconfiguring technical controls as needed
  • Updating policies, procedures, and training materials
  • Validating remediation effectiveness prior to follow-up reviews

Rolle IT helps agencies address findings efficiently while strengthening long-term compliance posture.

Ongoing CJIS Compliance and Continuous Improvement

CJIS compliance is not a one-time event. Requirements evolve, environments change, and agencies must maintain continuous alignment with the CJIS Security Policy.

Rolle IT supports ongoing compliance efforts by:

  • Providing continuous security monitoring and logging support
  • Performing periodic compliance reviews and readiness checks
  • Assisting with annual policy reviews and updates
  • Supporting new system implementations or cloud migrations
  • Advising LASOs on changes to CJIS policy or audit expectations

This ongoing partnership helps agencies remain audit-ready and resilient against emerging threats.

Why Agencies Choose Rolle IT Cybersecurity

Rolle IT Cybersecurity brings deep experience supporting public safety, criminal justice, and regulated environments. Our team understands the operational realities faced by law enforcement agencies and the responsibilities placed on LASOs.

By combining cybersecurity expertise with CJIS-specific knowledge, Rolle IT helps agencies reduce audit risk, strengthen security controls, and protect sensitive criminal justice data.

CJIS compliance audits are a critical component of safeguarding Criminal Justice Information. With the right preparation and expert support, agencies can approach audits with confidence.

Rolle IT Cybersecurity partners with Local Agency Security Officers to support CJIS compliance before, during, and after audits, ensuring agencies meet policy requirements while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Agencies seeking to strengthen their CJIS compliance posture or prepare for an upcoming audit are encouraged to engage Rolle IT Cybersecurity for expert guidance and support.

[email protected] 321-872-7576

Supporting CJIS Compliance Audits: How Rolle IT Cybersecurity Partners With LASOs Read More »

A Strategic Microsoft Partner for GCC High Environments

Business, CMMC, Compliance, Cybersecurity, MSSP, Security, Security, Small Business, Technology / / , , , , ,

For organizations already operating under Microsoft 365 GCC High (GCCH) requirements, the primary challenge is not determining whether GCCH is needed, but ensuring it is implemented, governed, and sustained correctly.

Rolle IT supports executive leadership and procurement stakeholders by providing structured oversight and long-term partnership for GCC High environments, reducing operational risk and ensuring contractual obligations are met.

Executive and Procurement Priorities

Organizations required to operate in GCC High face several non-negotiable priorities:

  • Proper eligibility validation and license issuance
  • Secure, defensible tenant configuration
  • Alignment with contractual and regulatory obligations
  • Audit readiness and documentation support
  • Long-term operational sustainability

Rolle IT works with leadership teams to ensure these priorities are addressed consistently and deliberately, without introducing unnecessary complexity or risk.

Rolle IT’s Role as Your GCC High Partner

Rolle IT acts as a governance-focused Microsoft partner, supporting GCC High environments throughout their lifecycle.

Our role includes:

  • Eligibility and Licensing Assurance
    Supporting accurate qualification, documentation, and license procurement through authorized channels.
  • Tenant Architecture and Governance Advisory
    Advising on administrative structure, identity strategy, and access models aligned with security and compliance expectations.
  • Security and Compliance Alignment
    Ensuring GCC High configurations support requirements such as NIST SP 800-171, DFARS, ITAR, and CJIS, where applicable.
  • Operational Readiness and Continuity
    Supporting adoption, change management, and long-term sustainability within the GCC High environment.

This approach enables leadership to make defensible, well-informed decisions.

Designed for Oversight and Accountability

GCC High environments must withstand scrutiny—from auditors, assessors, and contracting authorities.

Rolle IT emphasizes:

  • Clear governance models
  • Documented configuration decisions
  • Repeatable security practices
  • Reduced reliance on ad-hoc or reactive changes

This structure supports accountability and reduces long-term risk.

Engagement Beyond Initial Implementation

GCC High is not a one-time project. Licensing changes, new users, evolving contracts, and assessments introduce ongoing demands.

Rolle IT remains engaged to support:

  • Licensing lifecycle management
  • Configuration and governance reviews
  • Audit and assessment preparation
  • Strategic guidance as requirements evolve

Our clients value continuity and institutional knowledge, not one-time delivery.

A Partner for Leadership and Procurement Teams

Rolle IT complements internal IT organizations by providing specialized expertise and advisory support where it matters most. We help leadership and procurement teams move forward with confidence, clarity, and documented assurance.

Partner with Rolle IT

For organizations already committed to GCC High, selecting the right Microsoft partner is a critical governance decision.

Rolle IT provides the oversight, experience, and continuity required to operate GCC High environments with confidence and control.

[email protected] 321-872-7576

A Strategic Microsoft Partner for GCC High Environments Read More »

Supporting Law Enforcement Through a CJIS Compliance Audit

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How Cybersecurity and IT Professionals Work Together to Ensure Security, Accuracy, and Trust

For law enforcement agencies, maintaining Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance is more than a regulatory requirement. It is a responsibility that protects sensitive information, supports officer safety, and upholds public trust. When a department undergoes a CJIS audit, the process can feel overwhelming without the right technical expertise and documentation in place.

Recently, our team had the opportunity to assist a law enforcement department as they prepared for a full CJIS compliance audit. Cybersecurity professionals, CISSP-certified analysts, system administrators, and our managed security services staff worked hand in hand with the agency’s LASO (Local Agency Security Officer) and leadership team. Together, we created a smooth, structured, and successful audit experience.

Preparing for an Audit Requires a Unified Effort

CJIS compliance touches every aspect of an agency’s digital operations. From access controls to encryption, from physical security to personnel training, no single person can manage it alone. Our approach brought together:

• CISSP-certified cybersecurity professionals
to interpret policy language, ensure proper security controls, and validate alignment with CJIS Security Policy requirements.

• System administrators
to verify server configurations, review group policies, validate password controls, and document how systems enforce compliance.

• Managed security services teams
to provide logs, monitoring data, alert histories, vulnerability scans, and incident response documentation that auditors expect to see.

By bringing these roles together, we ensured that the LASO was fully supported through every stage of preparation.

Strengthening Documentation and Evidence

For many agencies, documentation is the most challenging part of a CJIS audit. We worked closely with leadership to gather, organize, and prepare:

  • Access control and personnel authorization records
  • Background check confirmations
  • Network diagrams and security architecture documentation
  • MFA and encryption configurations
  • Incident response and disaster recovery procedures
  • Security training acknowledgments
  • Vendor and contractor compliance evidence

With clear, complete documentation, the agency entered the audit confident and ready.

Walking Leadership Through Technical Configurations

Auditors often require demonstrations of system settings, logs, and controls. Our technical teams walked the LASO and command staff through each item, explaining:

  • How log retention requirements were met
  • How intrusion detection and SIEM systems were monitored
  • How permissions were assigned and reviewed
  • How device security and patch management were enforced
  • How CJIS-compliant tools (such as MFA, TLS, and encryption standards) were configured

This collaborative review ensured leadership understood not only what was in place, but why it mattered.

Partnering With State Auditors, Not Pushing Against Them

A successful CJIS audit is not adversarial. It is a partnership that ensures agencies can securely access and protect criminal justice information. Throughout the audit, we worked directly with the state auditing team to:

  • Provide documentation and technical evidence
  • Answer configuration and policy questions
  • Clarify security procedures
  • Resolve discrepancies in real time

This cooperative, transparent approach helped build trust among auditors and reinforced the agency’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of security.

Empowering Law Enforcement Agencies With Confidence

At the end of the process, the agency not only passed its audit but gained a deeper understanding of its systems, its safeguards, and its responsibilities under CJIS policy. For our team, the success was more than compliance. It was about supporting the people who protect our communities.

Whether a department is preparing for an audit, addressing gaps, or building a long-term cybersecurity strategy, having an experienced partner makes all the difference. Rolle IT is proud to stand beside law enforcement agencies, ensuring they have the tools, expertise, and confidence needed to meet CJIS requirements with excellence.

Supporting Law Enforcement Through a CJIS Compliance Audit Read More »

The CMMC Tsunami: How Ripples Became Waves—and Now a Storm Threatens the Defense Industrial Base

AI, Business, CMMC, Compliance, Cybersecurity, Managed Service Provider, MSSP, Security, Small Business, Technology / / , , , , , , ,
Rolle IT Cybersecurity, CMMC Experts, CMMC Consulting CAAS

Far offshore, deep under the ocean, a powerful shift occurs—an earthquake, a volcanic eruption, or a landslide.
At first, the surface looks almost calm.
There’s no immediate towering wall of water.
Just a subtle change: a slight pull of the tide, a few ripples moving outward.

But beneath the surface, an unstoppable force has been unleashed.
A massive surge of energy races silently across the water at hundreds of miles per hour. As it approaches land, the seafloor rises. The wave, once almost invisible, grows into a towering wall of water.

When a tsunami hits, it doesn’t just flood the coastline—it redraws it.
Entire towns are swept away.
Harbors are wiped clean.
The landscape is forever altered, and only the most prepared—or the highest ground—survives intact.

Tsunamis are not ordinary storms.
They are transformational forces.

Now, across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), another tsunami is approaching—not made of water, but of regulation, enforcement, and cybersecurity evolution.
This tsunami is called CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification).

The warning signs have been there. The ripples started years ago.

The only question left is: Will you be ready when it hits?

🌱 The First Ripples: Early Warnings Ignored

Years ago, the Department of Defense (DoD) recognized a growing threat: foreign adversaries were targeting the U.S. through the supply chain. Sensitive defense information was bleeding out through small and mid-sized contractors who lacked robust cybersecurity.

In response, early guidance like NIST SP 800-171 and DFARS 7008 & 7012 requirements were issued. These policies were the first ripples—small movements in the water that signaled a shift in expectations. While many companies unknowingly drifted closer to this impending disaster, each DFARS 7008 and 7012 clause they signed legally obligated them to have already fully implemented NIST 800-171 standards. These contractual commitments weren’t mere bureaucratic formalities—they were early tremors, subtle but undeniable confirmations of the seismic event beneath the surface. Those early ripples, largely ignored or misunderstood, were legal liabilities accumulating beneath calm waters, now coalescing into the regulatory tsunami known as CMMC.

But many companies treated these requirements as minor disturbances. Some completed a checklist. Some promised improvements without making real changes, some attested to NIST 800-171 compliance without knowing a thing about it. And others simply ignored the warnings altogether, anchored by the belief that bigger threats only happen to bigger ships.

The ripples were there. But few adjusted their course. 

🌊 The Rising Waves: CMMC Begins to Form

As data breaches multiplied and cyberattacks grew more sophisticated, the ripples grew into undeniable waves.
The Department of Defense realized more dramatic action was needed to protect national security.

Thus, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was born.

No longer would companies self-attest to their cybersecurity practices.
Third-party assessments would now be required to prove compliance.
Without certification, companies would be barred from executing on defense contracts.

The water was no longer gently stirring. It was rising.

And those waves carried with them a heavy message: Adapt or be cast adrift.

💥 The Earthquake Beneath: A Tectonic Shift in the DIB

Many companies didn’t notice it—but while they worked through proposals and deliveries, a massive earthquake rumbled far beneath the surface.

  • Threat actors were becoming state-sponsored and far more sophisticated.
  • Legislative pressure was mounting on the DoD to shore up its vulnerabilities.
  • Public trust in the resilience of the U.S. defense supply chain was beginning to erode.

This earthquake is what triggered the tsunami—the seismic force of CMMC requirements reshaping the entire defense contracting landscape.

By the time the first wall of water appears on the horizon, it’s already too late for last-minute scrambling. The energy unleashed cannot be stopped—it can only be anticipated and prepared for.

🌊🌊🌊 The Tsunami Approaches: What Happens Next?

The full enforcement of CMMC is not a distant possibility—it is an inevitable, crashing wave speeding toward the DIB.

Companies that fail to adapt will face existential consequences:

  • Loss of Contracting Opportunities: Without certification, companies will be disqualified from defense projects.
  • Reputational Damage: A company caught unprepared signals unreliability not just to the DoD, but to prime contractors and teammates.
  • ⚖️ Whistleblowers, False Claims Act, and Cybersecurity Noncompliance
    • “False cybersecurity certifications are no longer a hidden risk. They are ticking time bombs.” – U.S. Department of Justice
    • Under the False Claims Act (FCA), companies that submit false information to the government—or falsely certify compliance with federal regulations—can be sued for massive damages.
      And cybersecurity compliance is now a major target.
    • In fact, the Department of Justice launched the Civil Cyber-Fraud Initiative in 2021, focusing specifically on holding contractors accountable when they:
      • Knowingly misrepresent their cybersecurity practices,
      • Fail to report breaches,
      • Or falsely claim they meet contract requirements like DFARS or CMMC preconditions.
    • 🔹 Example: In 2022, Aerojet Rocketdyne settled for $9 million after a whistleblower (their former cybersecurity executive) alleged that the company failed to comply with DFARS cybersecurity clauses—even though they were required to under federal contract terms (DOJ announcement).
    • 🔹 Key point: Individual employees—not just agencies—can trigger these lawsuits.
      Under the FCA’s qui tam provisions, whistleblowers are entitled to a portion of any recovered settlement.
    • In the context of CMMC, if a company falsely claims readiness or compliance to win a defense contract, they could face millions of dollars in penalties—and public reputation damage that is even harder to repair.
  • Financial Loss: Losing access to defense contracts could cripple companies, especially small and mid-sized firms that depend on this business.

This isn’t just a compliance checkbox. It’s an industry-wide rearrangement—a reshaping of who stays and who goes.

The coastline will be forever altered.

🛡️ Preparing for the Tsunami: Riding the Wave, Not Fighting It

The good news?
You can survive.
You can thrive.

But only if you start moving now.

Preparation looks like:

  • Understanding your CUI
  • Understanding your current cybersecurity posture
  • Developing robust System Security Plans (SSPs) and Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms).
  • Engaging early with experts who can guide your certification journey.
  • Building a cybersecurity-first culture within your organization—before it’s forced upon you.

The organizations that prepare now will not only survive the tsunami—they’ll be the new leaders in the reshaped Defense Industrial Base.

Those who treat CMMC as an opportunity, not a burden, will rise with the wave.

The CMMC Tsunami: How Ripples Became Waves—and Now a Storm Threatens the Defense Industrial Base Read More »

Rolle IT at VETS25

AI, Business, CMMC, Co-Pilot, Cybersecurity, Managed Service Provider, MSSP, Security, Security, Small Business, Technology / / , , , , , ,

Rolle IT Cybersecurity will be on the ground at VETS25 in Orlando May 13–16, and we’re looking forward to connecting with you! 🎉 Find us at Booth 807 and discover how our expert IT services and cybersecurity solutions can help support your mission.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your IT infrastructure, explore innovative cybersecurity strategies, achieve and maintain CMMC Compliance, or discuss partnership and teaming opportunities, we’re ready to connect and collaborate.

👉 Schedule time with our team to dive deeper into your IT needs
👉 Stop by Booth 807 to meet us, learn more, and see how Rolle IT can be a valuable asset to your success

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to build stronger, smarter solutions!

hashtag#VETS25 hashtag#Cybersecurity hashtag#ITServices hashtag#TeamingOpportunities hashtag#RolleIT hashtag#VeteranEntrepreneurs hashtag#CMMC hashtag#MSSP hashtag#MSP hashtag#DIB

Cordell Rolle Rolle IT at VETS25 MSSP

Rolle IT at VETS25 Read More »

End of Support for Windows 10

Agile Methodologies, Business, Managed Service Provider, Security, Small Business, Technology / / , , , , , , , ,

Upgrading to Windows 11 Is Essential for Modern Businesses

As Microsoft continues to phase out legacy systems, upgrading to Windows 11 is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a business imperative. Whether you’re running critical applications or simply seeking to protect your organization’s digital assets, here are key reasons why making the switch to Windows 11 matters.

🔒 1. Enhanced Security by Design

Windows 11 was built with zero trust security principles at its core. It requires TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), Secure Boot, and hardware-based isolation to help reduce firmware-level attacks.

According to Microsoft, 60% fewer security incidents were reported on Windows 11 devices compared to Windows 10 in enterprise environments.
Source: Microsoft Security Blog, 2023

⚡ 2. Performance and Efficiency Gains

Windows 11 introduces improvements in memory management, disk usage, and battery efficiency. It’s optimized for hybrid work with features like Snap Layouts, DirectStorage, and better support for virtual desktops.

Windows 11 boots 30% faster and reduces background activity compared to Windows 10, according to Microsoft’s own performance benchmarks.
Source: Microsoft Learn

📆 3. End of Support for Windows 10 Is Coming

Microsoft announced October 14, 2025 as the end of support date for Windows 10. After this, no more security updates or technical support will be available.

Failing to upgrade leaves your systems vulnerable to cyber threats and may result in non-compliance with data protection standards.
Source: Microsoft Lifecycle Policy

🧠 4. AI and CoPilot Readiness

Windows 11 is optimized for AI-driven features, including Microsoft’s CoPilot integration, which enhances productivity, automates tasks, and improves decision-making.

Only Windows 11 supports the next-generation AI experiences baked into Microsoft 365 apps — making it critical for businesses investing in future-forward technologies.
Source: Microsoft Ignite 2023 Keynote

✅ Upgrading with a experienced Firm

Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just a technical decision — it’s a strategic move. With better security, performance, and AI capabilities, Windows 11 enables businesses to work smarter, safer, and faster. Windows 11 isn’t just an operating system upgrade — it’s a gateway to enhanced security, better productivity, and future-ready technology. But while the benefits are clear, the path to Windows 11 isn’t always simple. Upgrading without expert support can expose your organization to unnecessary risks, downtime, and compatibility issues.

Let’s explore why upgrading to Windows 11 matters — and why partnering with an experienced IT firm like Rolle IT is critical.

🔧 Upgrading Isn’t Always Plug-and-Play

Despite Windows 11 being built for modern computing, hardware requirements and software compatibility checks make upgrading a challenge for many organizations:

  • TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a supported CPU are mandatory — disqualifying many older machines.
  • Custom or legacy applications may not work reliably, especially in highly regulated or technical industries.
  • Licensing and configuration of Group Policies, BitLocker, and endpoint protections must be re-evaluated.
  • Upgrades in a hybrid or domain environment (like Azure AD or Active Directory) require careful planning.

A Gartner study found that 40% of organizations faced delays or complications in Windows 11 adoption due to incompatible hardware or legacy systems.
Source: Gartner, 2023

🤝 Why an Experienced IT Firm Matters

A seasoned Managed Services Provider (MSP) like Rolle IT ensures your upgrade is smooth, secure, and tailored to your business environment. Here’s how:

✅ 1. Pre-Deployment Assessment

We evaluate your hardware, applications, licensing, and user needs to determine upgrade readiness and avoid surprises.

✅ 2. Compatibility Planning

We identify applications, drivers, or legacy systems that may need updates or replacements — and implement workarounds where needed.

✅ 3. Staged Rollouts & Downtime Mitigation

Rolling out upgrades in stages reduces business disruption. We provide rollback options, system backups, and contingency planning.

✅ 4. Security Optimization

We ensure TPM, Secure Boot, BitLocker, and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint are configured correctly — not just activated.

✅ 5. Post-Migration Support

From user training on new features like Snap Layouts and CoPilot, to 24/7 helpdesk coverage, we make sure your team stays productive.

According to TechRepublic, “Businesses that partner with MSPs report 65% faster adoption and 30% fewer IT support incidents after a major OS migration.”
Source: TechRepublic, 2023

🏁 Conclusion: Don’t Go It Alone

Upgrading to Windows 11 unlocks a new era of security, performance, and intelligent tools — but the transition must be carefully managed. Choosing a proven IT partner ensures:

  • Full compliance with Microsoft’s evolving standards
  • Minimal disruption to your business
  • Long-term support and optimization

Rolle IT brings years of experience in managing OS transitions across industries. We don’t just upgrade — we future-proof your IT. [email protected]

End of Support for Windows 10 Read More »

Supercharge Your Business with AI: Integrate Co-Pilot Seamlessly

Agile Methodologies, Business, Law Firms / / , , , , , ,

Unlock the Power of AI-Driven Productivity

At Rolle IT, we specialize in transformations and streamlining IT processes. Integrating Microsoft Co-Pilot into your existing business systems is one of the biggest upgrades to user experience a company can make — helping you transform daily operations with intelligent, real-time assistance. Whether you’re using Microsoft 365, Dynamics, Teams, or custom enterprise platforms, our tailored solutions ensure Co-Pilot becomes an integral part of your workflows.

Why Integrate Co-Pilot?

  • Boost Efficiency: Automate repetitive tasks, generate documents, and summarize conversations instantly.
  • Make Smarter Decisions: Co-Pilot turns your data into actionable insights with natural language queries and visual reports.
  • Enhance Collaboration: Empower your teams with AI-enhanced communication and content creation tools.
  • Streamline Workflows: Integrate Co-Pilot with ERP, CRM, HR, or other line-of-business systems for seamless automation.

A Game-Changer for Small Businesses

Running lean doesn’t mean running slow. For small businesses, Co-Pilot is like hiring a team of virtual employees—without the overhead. From drafting emails and proposals to analyzing sales reports and managing calendars, Co-Pilot enables your team to do more with less, maximizing productivity and accelerating growth. It’s not just software—it’s a scalable digital teammate that grows with your business.

What We Offer

  • Custom Integration Services: We connect Co-Pilot to your unique systems, whether cloud-based, hybrid, or on-prem.
  • Security & Compliance: Ensure AI access respects your data governance and industry standards.
  • Training & Support: We guide your team on how to get the most out of Co-Pilot with tailored onboarding and support.

Who Is This For?

From startups and small enterprises to Fortune 500 companies, any organization looking to scale, innovate, and reduce manual workloads can benefit. Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, logistics, or legal, our solutions are industry-adapted and enterprise-ready.

Let AI Work With You.

📩 Schedule a demo today and discover how Co-Pilot can revolutionize your workplace. Your next level of productivity starts here.

Supercharge Your Business with AI: Integrate Co-Pilot Seamlessly Read More »

🚨 Why I built this timeline: My goal was simple…to warn and serve the Defense Industrial Base.

By Grant Mooney, CMMC, Compliance, Cybersecurity Training, Email Security, Managed Service Provider, Security, Small Business, Technology / / , , , , , , ,

By Grant Mooney, CCP

🚨 Why I built this timeline: My goal was simple…to warn and serve the Defense Industrial Base.

I’ve spent the last few weeks working a lot… digging through over 20 years of DoD policy, DFARS clauses, Congress Mandates, NIST standards, and real world NIST 800-171 Lawsuit cases. Too many companies still think CMMC is “just a future contract checkbox.” It’s not.
It’s already a survival issue,

📉 If your business depends on DoD contracts and you haven’t finished implementing NIST 800-171, you’ve already missed the deadline: December 31, 2017!
📍 YOU ARE HERE — in the Death of the Old DiB. The “Great Disqualification” begins soon. Primes are already flowing down Level 2 requirements. If you don’t have a certificate or a plan, you’re already losing opportunities.
🎰 If you’re just now starting to take this seriously in Q2 2025, as a company, you’re a High Stakes Gambler. You’re betting everything on 12–24 months of implementation work in a shrinking window. Many won’t make it.
❌ Others will end up like the DoD Dumped Company on this timeline—disqualified, replaced, or acquired.
✅ But there’s still time to get ahead. I’ve heard the early movers landing more work, closing stronger teaming deals, and becoming go-to suppliers because they got certified while others waited.

This timeline is a warning. It’s also a roadmap. If you’re unsure where your company stands, or how to start, reach out. I’m here to help.

#CMMC

#NIST800171

#DFARS

#CyberCompliance

#DoD

#GovCon

#DIB

#BusinessRisk

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#FalseClaimsAct

🚨 Why I built this timeline: My goal was simple…to warn and serve the Defense Industrial Base. Read More »