Scope and Coverage

The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is designed to ensure that cloud services used by federal agencies adhere to strict security standards. FedRAMP covers three main types of cloud services: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

IaaS provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. Examples include Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure. These services offer essential cloud infrastructure such as virtual machines, storage, and networks. FedRAMP ensures that IaaS providers implement robust security measures to protect federal data stored and processed in these environments.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

PaaS offers a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without dealing with the underlying infrastructure. Examples include Google App Engine and Salesforce Platform. PaaS solutions must comply with FedRAMP’s security requirements to ensure that federal agencies can securely build and deploy applications on these platforms.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

SaaS delivers software applications over the internet on a subscription basis. Examples include Google Workspace and Microsoft Office 365. These applications are hosted and maintained by CSPs, and FedRAMP mandates that these providers implement comprehensive security controls to safeguard federal information accessed and utilized through these applications.

Public, Private, and Hybrid Cloud Environments

FedRAMP's security requirements apply to various cloud deployment models, including public, private, and hybrid clouds, each offering different levels of control, flexibility, and security.

Public Cloud

Public cloud environments are owned and operated by third-party CSPs and are available to multiple organizations. Examples include services from AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. FedRAMP ensures that public cloud services used by federal agencies meet stringent security standards, providing a secure environment for storing and processing federal data.

Private Cloud

Private cloud environments are dedicated to a single organization, offering greater control over security and compliance. These clouds can be hosted on-premises or by a third-party provider. Private clouds are ideal for federal agencies that require higher levels of security and privacy for sensitive data. FedRAMP’s requirements ensure that private cloud environments adhere to the same high security standards as public clouds.

Hybrid Cloud

Hybrid cloud environments combine public and private cloud elements, allowing organizations to leverage the benefits of both models. This approach provides flexibility and scalability while maintaining control over sensitive data. FedRAMP’s security framework ensures that hybrid cloud services meet federal security standards, enabling agencies to securely use hybrid environments for their varied needs.

Federal Agencies and Contractors Involved

FedRAMP involves multiple stakeholders, including federal agencies, cloud service providers (CSPs), and third-party assessment organizations (3PAOs). Each plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and compliance of cloud services used by the federal government.

Federal Agencies

Federal agencies are the primary users of FedRAMP-authorized cloud services. They rely on FedRAMP to ensure that the cloud services they adopt meet rigorous security standards. Agencies are responsible for sponsoring CSPs for FedRAMP authorization, facilitating the security assessment and authorization process.

Cloud Service Providers (CSPs)

CSPs offer cloud services to federal agencies. They must undergo a rigorous security assessment process to obtain FedRAMP authorization. This involves implementing comprehensive security controls and undergoing an independent assessment by a 3PAO. Once authorized, CSPs can offer their services to multiple federal agencies, streamlining the procurement process.

Third-Party Assessment Organizations (3PAOs)

3PAOs are independent organizations accredited by FedRAMP to conduct security assessments of CSPs. They play a critical role in the FedRAMP process by verifying that CSPs meet the required security standards. The assessment conducted by a 3PAO includes reviewing the CSP’s implementation of security controls, conducting penetration testing, and evaluating the overall security posture of the cloud service.

Conclusion

FedRAMP's scope and coverage ensure that a wide range of cloud services and deployment models meet stringent security standards, protecting federal information from potential threats. By involving various stakeholders, including federal agencies, CSPs, and 3PAOs, FedRAMP creates a comprehensive framework for the secure adoption of cloud technologies in the federal government.