MLPS 2.0 Compliance in China
Unlock the Chinese market with trusted cybersecurity compliance.
Protect your business, build trust, and stay ahead of regulations.
What is MLPS? Multi-Level Protection Scheme
The MLPS (Multi-level Protection Scheme) is a government-issued normative document that dates back to 1994 and is primarily used to assess the security level of network systems. Since the release of China’s Cybersecurity Law (CSL) in 2017, all network operators, including foreign companies, are required to comply with the MLPS 2.0 version. This standardization document is designed to help network operators evaluate, maintain, and protect their information systems and networks. It follows a tiered approach that essentially provides a health check for IT systems with varying standards for different security levels. However, it’s essential to note that the MLPS scope does not include medicine or medical approaches. Other relevant laws, such as Password Law, use the MLPS level as a benchmark to determine the appropriate measures to be taken at each level.
Why Is MLPS 2.0 Compliance Essential?
- It’s the Law: MLPS 2.0 is a mandatory requirement under China’s Cybersecurity Law. All organizations operating in China—foreign or domestic—must comply, regardless of size or industry.
- Market Access: Without MLPS compliance, you may be unable to do business with Chinese partners, government agencies, or regulated industries. Many contracts require proof of MLPS certification.
- Risk Reduction: MLPS 2.0 helps protect your business from cyberattacks, data breaches, and regulatory fines. Non-compliance can result in penalties, business suspension, or even criminal liability.
- Build Trust & Reputation: Demonstrating compliance shows your commitment to security, building trust with customers, partners, and regulators in China.
- Competitive Advantage: MLPS 2.0 compliance can set you apart from competitors, making your business more attractive to Chinese clients and partners.
- Global Alignment: MLPS 2.0 shares principles with international standards like ISO 27001 and GDPR, helping you align with global best practices.
Why Choose Us for MLPS 2.0?
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Expertise in China Compliance
Years of experience guiding foreign enterprises through MLPS 2.0 and cybersecurity regulations.
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End-to-End Service
From system classification to audit, we handle every step for a smooth, stress-free process.
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Multilingual Support
Our team bridges language and cultural gaps, ensuring clear communication and results.
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Proven Track Record
Trusted by global brands and SMEs for successful compliance and market entry.
How MLPS 2.0 Compliance Works
From classification to ongoing compliance, our process ensures you meet every requirement efficiently and confidently.
Classification
💡 How to Determine Your Level
- Most small- and mid-sized foreign companies would fall in Level 1 or 2.
- Comparable to TISAX certification (AL2) under GDPR, Level 1 self assessment, since Level 2 3rd party.
- >= 70 Points as PASS.
- Apply for > Level2
- MLPS is per system evaluated. Pure office LAN cannot apply. Must be something with server.
- WFOEs whose systems have NO data-exchange between foreign sites can apply.
- E.g. OA/CRM or MRP system can apply.
- Starting from 01.Sep.2022, network operators transfers data to abroad should follow the regulation of cross-border transfer of personal data.
Application Procedure
💡 Sample of Assessment Items
Case Study
Success Story
Challenge: A US-based SaaS provider needed MLPS 2.0 compliance to serve Chinese clients.
Solution: We guided them through system classification, gap analysis, remediation, and official audit.
Result: Achieved Level 3 MLPS certification in 4 months, enabling secure business expansion in China.
What Our Clients Say
“The team made MLPS 2.0 compliance easy to understand and achieve. We were able to launch in China on schedule.”
— CTO, European SaaS Company
“Professional, responsive, and truly experts in Chinese cybersecurity. Highly recommended for any foreign business.”
— IT Director, US Manufacturing Firm
“Their end-to-end service saved us time and avoided costly mistakes. We trust them for all our China compliance needs.”
— COO, APAC Retailer
Related guides
Practical articles from DELine on this topic.
Regulation
MPS Order No. 176: What Foreign Companies and Government Organizations in China Should Review
What changes now that Order No. 176 is in force, for foreign companies and government organizations in China.
Exchange Server
China’s MPS Order 176: Patch Exchange Server 2019 or Move to the Cloud?
What Order No. 176 means for companies still running Exchange Server 2019, and how to weigh patching against migrating.