Cloud.gov Security & Compliance Benefits
Overview
Cloud.gov provides a unified security control layer that eliminates redundant implementation efforts across multiple systems. By leveraging our FedRAMP Moderate Authorization on AWS GovCloud, agencies inherit platform-level controls and focus engineering resources on mission-specific security requirements. This approach reduces configuration errors, accelerates authorization timelines, and ensures consistent security posture across all deployed applications.
Process / Steps
1. Understand the Unified Control Layer
Cloud.gov implements controls once at the platform level, preventing:
- Misconfiguration of AWS security groups
- Inconsistent encryption implementations
- Varied patching schedules
- Duplicate compliance documentation
2. Leverage Platform Controls
Inherited from Cloud.gov:
- Network security (VPC, security groups)
- Infrastructure hardening
- Continuous monitoring
- Platform level Incident Response capabilities
3. Focus on Application Security
Customer Responsibility: With platform controls handled, concentrate on:
- Secure coding practices
- Application-level authentication
- Business logic security
- Data classification and handling
- Application level Incident Response capabilities
4. Accelerate Your ATO Process
Typical timeline reduction:
- Traditional approach: 6-18 months
- With Cloud.gov: 6-12 weeks
Steps to leverage our ATO:
- Request FedRAMP package (ID F1607067912)
- Map inherited controls in your SSP
- Document application-specific controls
- Submit streamlined package to your AO
5. Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Cloud.gov provides:
- Automated vulnerability scanning
- Continuous control monitoring
- Regular security updates
- Annual reassessments
Common Errors & Fixes
Duplicating Platform Controls
- Issue: Implementing controls already provided by Cloud.gov
- Fix: Review Control Implementation Summary (CIS) which can be found in our FedRAMP package before documenting
Over-Engineering Security
- Issue: Adding unnecessary security layers
- Fix: Trust platform controls; focus on application-specific needs
Missing Control Evidence
- Issue: Incomplete inheritance documentation
- Fix: Reference specific Cloud.gov controls in your SSP
FAQs
Q: How does Cloud.gov reduce security risks? A: Centralized implementation eliminates configuration variance across systems, reducing attack surface and human error.
Q: Can we customize platform security settings? A: Platform controls are standardized for all tenants. Application-level customization is fully supported.
Q: How often are platform controls updated? A: Continuously, with zero-downtime deployments for critical security patches.
Q: What compliance frameworks does this support? A: NIST 800-53 , FedRAMP Moderate, FISMA Moderate, and agency-specific overlays built on these standards.