What is FedRAMP?

FedRAMP was established in 2011 to accelerate federal adoption of cloud computing while ensuring consistent security. Before FedRAMP, each federal agency conducted its own security assessment of cloud services, creating significant duplication. FedRAMP provides a "do once, use many" approach where a cloud service provider (CSP) achieves authorization once and any federal agency can leverage that authorization. The program defines three impact levels: Low (approximately 156 controls), Moderate (approximately 325 controls, the most common level), and High (approximately 421 controls), plus FedRAMP Tailored (Li-SaaS) with approximately 36 controls for low-impact SaaS. CSPs can pursue authorization through two paths: JAB (Joint Authorization Board) Provisional Authorization, reviewed by CIOs from DHS, GSA, and DOD, which is the most widely recognized, or Agency Authorization, sponsored by a specific federal agency. Both paths require assessment by a FedRAMP-accredited Third-Party Assessment Organization (3PAO) and result in listing on the FedRAMP Marketplace. After authorization, CSPs must maintain continuous monitoring including monthly vulnerability scanning, annual assessments, ongoing POA&M management, and incident reporting. The authorization process typically takes 12-18 months and costs $500,000 to $2 million or more. FedRAMP has authorized over 300 cloud service offerings, and the program continues to evolve with initiatives to accelerate authorization timelines and improve the authorization process.