Reference · Contracting basics & process
DFARS
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) is the Department of Defense's addition to the FAR. It implements and supplements the FAR with DoD-specific policies and clauses — including the cybersecurity requirements of DFARS 252.204-7012.
What it is
The DFARS carries DoD-only rules layered on the FAR: domestic-source restrictions, cybersecurity and assessment clauses, specialty-metals rules, and more. Its clauses appear in DoD contracts alongside FAR clauses.
Why it exists
DoD has requirements civilian agencies don't — supply-chain security, industrial base protection, and defense-specific policy — and the DFARS is where those are codified.
Who it applies to
Contractors and subcontractors on DoD contracts. If you sell to the DoD, both the FAR and the DFARS apply.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between FAR and DFARS?
The FAR is the government-wide acquisition regulation; the DFARS is the Department of Defense's supplement to it. DoD contracts follow both — the FAR for baseline rules and the DFARS for defense-specific policies and clauses such as the cybersecurity requirements of DFARS 252.204-7012.
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