FedRAMP
The Gold Standard for Cloud Security in the U.S. Government.
The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is a US government-wide program that provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services.
FedRAMP enables the federal government to accelerate the adoption of cloud computing by creating transparent standards and processes for security authorizations and allowing agencies to leverage security authorizations on a government-wide basis.
- Type: Security Framework
- Core Idea: Standardized Cloud Security for Government
- Key Elements: NIST 800-53 Controls, 3PAO Assessment, JAB/Agency Authorization
Core Components
Understanding the structure of FedRAMP.
Applicability
Mandatory for any Cloud Service Provider (CSP) selling to federal agencies.
Status
Mandatory for U.S. Federal Government cloud deployments.
Core Requirement
A lengthy and expensive authorization process based on NIST 800-53 controls, assessed by a Third-Party Assessment Organization (3PAO).
Output
An Authority to Operate (ATO) from a federal agency or a Provisional ATO (P-ATO) from the Joint Authorization Board (JAB).
Perception
Considered the "gold standard" in cloud security, demonstrating a very high level of security assurance.
Implementation & Strategy
Costs, timelines, and strategic considerations for adopting FedRAMP.
Estimated Project Costs
FedRAMP authorization is a very expensive undertaking. A small organization might spend between $250,000 and $500,000, while a mid-sized organization could spend between $500,000 and $1,000,000. Large, enterprise-level organizations can exceed $1,000,000.
Implementation Strategy
A typical FedRAMP implementation starts with a readiness assessment to identify the organization's current security posture. From there, the organization can develop a remediation plan and implement the necessary controls. The final step is to undergo a formal audit by a 3PAO and to obtain an ATO from a federal agency.
Comparisons
How FedRAMP stacks up against other security frameworks.