Why is FedRAMP certification critical for cloud service providers?

Achieving FedRAMP authorization demonstrates that a cloud service provider meets stringent U.S. government security requirements. For any cloud service provider seeking to serve the public sector market, this certification has become a must-have. FedRAMP is a government-wide program that delivers a unified security authorization process to enable federal agencies to utilize secure cloud services. The program provides a standard approach for assessing and authorizing cloud computing services based on a “do once, use many times” framework.

FedRAMP was established in 2011 to ensure consistent security across all federal cloud deployments and service models, including Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). The program is jointly managed by the General Services Administration (GSA), National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Defense (DoD), and the Federal Chief Information Officer (CIO) Council. All U.S. federal government agencies are required to use FedRAMP-authorized cloud services. Many state and local governments look for fedramp certification when procuring cloud solutions.

Benefits of FedRAMP certification for cloud providers

FedRAMP certification opens up business opportunities to serve federal, state, and local government agencies. Estimates suggest that government agencies represent a $150 billion market for cloud solutions. Once a provider achieves authorization, government customers can procure their services faster without performing redundant security assessments. This authorization is a stamp of approval that helps establish trust in a provider’s security posture. It helps attract commercial and international customers. These promote conformity to recognized security practices and minimize unique agency-specific controls. It simplifies and reduces costs around compliance. Providers obtain Provisional Authorizations to Operate (P-ATO) from the FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO), which other agencies leverage, avoiding redundant efforts.

FedRAMP security control baselines

To receive FedRAMP authorization, cloud services must meet the requirements defined in the FedRAMP security control baselines. The baselines encompass system security requirements derived from NIST Special Publication 800-53 Revision 4.

1. FedRAMP low – This baseline contains security controls for low-impact cloud systems that contain non-sensitive public information.
2. FedRAMP moderate – For cloud systems handling moderately sensitive information like personally identifiable information (PII).
3. FedRAMP high – The most stringent requirements for cloud systems with high-impact data like classified information.

The controls outline mechanisms and policies to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. They span 17 control families such as access control, audit and accountability, security assessment, system communications, and more. To achieve FedRAMP authorization, providers must implement the entire system security requirements for their chosen baseline. They must also participate in ongoing continuous monitoring activities.

Tips for achieving FedRAMP certification

Select independent assessors (3PAOs) with extensive FedRAMP experience to conduct the security assessment and testing process. Leverage automation tools and machine learning capabilities to accelerate documentation and ongoing continuous monitoring activities. Consider going for a Provisional ATO which is issued directly by the FedRAMP PMO and is usable across agencies. Implement security controls not just to check the box, but to maintain a resilient and secure service long-term. Plan not just for initial FedRAMP authorization, but also account for resources needed for continuous compliance over time.