FedRAMP

Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program

A U.S. government-wide program that provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring of cloud service providers (CSPs). FedRAMP aims to ensure the security and privacy of federal data stored and processed in cloud computing environments.

The primary goal of FedRAMP is to establish a consistent and reliable framework for assessing the security posture of cloud service providers, thereby facilitating the adoption of cloud technologies across federal agencies. It standardizes the security requirements and assessment processes, reducing duplication of efforts and providing a streamlined approach for CSPs seeking to offer their services to federal agencies.

Key aspects of the FedRAMP program include:

1. Security Standards: FedRAMP establishes a set of security controls based on recognized standards such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-53. These controls outline the security requirements CSPs must meet to protect federal data stored in the cloud.
2. Authorization Process: CSPs seeking to provide cloud services to federal agencies must undergo a comprehensive security assessment and authorization process. This involves reviewing and evaluating the CSP’s security controls, system architecture, policies, and procedures by an accredited third-party assessment organization (3PAO). Once authorized, the CSP is listed in the FedRAMP Marketplace as a trusted provider.
3. Continuous Monitoring: FedRAMP emphasizes continuous monitoring to ensure ongoing compliance with security requirements. CSPs must regularly report on their security posture and undergo periodic assessments to maintain authorization status. This approach enables agencies to have visibility into the security of their cloud services.
4. Reusability and Efficiency: FedRAMP promotes the reuse of security assessment artifacts, known as Authorization Packages, across federal agencies. This reduces redundant assessments and accelerates the adoption of cloud services. Authorized CSPs can leverage their authorization status to offer services to multiple federal agencies, saving time and resources for both the CSPs and the agencies.

FedRAMP has significantly contributed to the government’s adoption of cloud services by providing a standardized and risk-based approach to cloud security. It ensures that federal agencies can access secure and reliable cloud solutions while promoting transparency, collaboration, and efficiency between CSPs and government agencies.

• Abbreviation: FedRAMP