FedRAMP
The U.S. federal government's standardized security authorization program for cloud service providers.
Definition
What is FedRAMP?
The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is a U.S. government-wide program that provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services used by federal agencies. Cloud Service Providers (CSPs) seeking to sell to federal agencies must achieve FedRAMP authorization — either through the Joint Authorization Board (JAB) for top-priority services or through individual agency Authorization to Operate (ATO). FedRAMP controls are based on NIST SP 800-53 and represent the most rigorous federal security standard for commercial cloud services.
Why It Matters
Without FedRAMP authorization, a cloud service provider cannot be used by U.S. federal agencies. The federal cloud market exceeds $10B annually — and the path to it runs through FedRAMP. The authorization process is complex, expensive, and slow for unprepared organizations — but firms with prior federal security program experience can navigate it significantly faster. FedRAMP authorization also carries commercial credibility: state/local governments and regulated industries use it as a proxy for security maturity.
How It Works
FedRAMP authorization follows three steps: Ready (preparing documentation and completing a Readiness Assessment Report), In Process (working with a sponsoring agency or JAB toward ATO), and Authorized (listed in the FedRAMP Marketplace). The process requires a System Security Plan documenting all controls, selection and engagement with a 3PAO (Third Party Assessment Organization), and continuous monitoring reporting after authorization.
Our Approach
Paxanimi's Approach to FedRAMP
Paxanimi's government practice has supported CSPs from FedRAMP Readiness through Authorization. We develop complete System Security Plans, manage 3PAO coordination, implement required controls in AWS GovCloud and Azure Government environments, and prepare continuous monitoring programs. Our cleared consultants can support sensitive program requirements. We also support state government and critical infrastructure FedRAMP equivalency programs.
Quick Reference
- Category
- Compliance
- Related Services
- Cybersecurity Services
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