Federal Contracting Acronym
SSP
System Security Plan
Plain-English definition
System Security Plan (SSP) is a core federal acquisition term used in regulations, solicitations, and contract administration. Cybersecurity and information-protection terms appear in DFARS clauses, authorization packages, and supplier performance assessments. Contractors map controls, evidence, and reporting to customer requirements.
Why it matters
SSP accuracy supports SPRS scores, CMMC assessments, and customer ATO decisions.
Where you will see it
NIST 800-171 assessments, RMF packages, and DFARS cyber compliance artifacts.
Example in context
When reviewing a solicitation, a contractor confirms how SSP is used in the notice, whether related clauses apply, and which internal subject-matter experts should validate the response.