The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is a framework that provides a standardized approach to authorizing, monitoring and conducting security assessments on cloud services. It is an integral part of the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Cloud First Policy, which is designed to help government agencies leverage cloud solutions securely and more efficiently. This program focuses on reducing redundant work, streamlining processes, closing security gaps and minimizing costs associated with authorization.
Any accredited federal agency, authorized cloud service provider (CSP) or third-party assessment organization (3PAO) can be associated with FedRAMP. However, implementing it can be challenging. It takes time to execute properly and is not comparable to common reporting frameworks such as Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements (SSAE 16) and Service Organization Control (SOC 2). In fact, FedRAMP is one of the most complex and in-depth compliance programs an organization can undertake.
