FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Standardized approach to security assessment for cloud products used by federal agencies.
What is FedRAMP?
FedRAMP is a government-wide program that provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services used by federal agencies. Established in 2011, FedRAMP enables agencies to use modern cloud technologies while ensuring the security of federal information.
FedRAMP authorization can be achieved through the Joint Authorization Board (JAB) or through individual agency authorization. The program has three impact levels (Low, Moderate, High) based on the potential impact of a security breach. FedRAMP Ready designation indicates a cloud service provider has been reviewed by an accredited third-party assessment organization.
Who Needs FedRAMP?
- Cloud service providers selling to federal government
- SaaS companies seeking government contracts
- IT vendors supporting federal agencies
- Government contractors using cloud services
- Organizations serving state/local governments (StateRAMP)
Key Requirements
Core compliance areas for FedRAMP
Security Assessment
Comprehensive assessment by a Third Party Assessment Organization (3PAO).
System Security Plan
Detailed documentation of system architecture, boundaries, and security controls.
NIST 800-53 Controls
Implementation of NIST SP 800-53 security controls based on impact level.
Continuous Monitoring
Ongoing assessment of security controls and monthly/annual reporting.
Plan of Action & Milestones
Document and track remediation of identified security weaknesses.
Benefits of FedRAMP Compliance
- Access to $50B+ federal cloud market
- Reusable authorization across agencies
- Competitive advantage in government sales
- Rigorous security validation
- Standardized security assessment process
- Foundation for StateRAMP compliance
Official Resources
Related Frameworks
NIST CSF
Voluntary framework providing standards and best practices for managing cybersecurity risk.
CMMC
DoD framework ensuring defense contractors protect sensitive defense information.
SOC 2
The gold standard for demonstrating security practices to enterprise customers and partners.