What is FedRAMP compliance?

FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) is the U.S. government’s standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud services handling federal data. Launched in 2012, it ensures that cloud service providers (CSPs) meet rigorous security controls based on NIST 800‑53.

Why is FedRAMP important?

• Provides a government‑wide authorization that can be reused across agencies.
• Boosts credibility and trust with federal customers.
• Ensures consistent security controls aligned with NIST and FISMA.
• Enables faster cloud adoption and reduces duplicate assessments.
• Offers continuous monitoring to keep security posture up‑to‑date.

How to become FedRAMP compliant

There are two primary authorization pathways:

1. JAB authorization – Managed by the Joint Authorization Board (GSA, DoD, DHS). Limited to ~12 CSPs per year and suitable for solutions with broad government use.
2. Agency authorization – Partner with a specific federal agency; no fixed schedule, ideal for niche solutions.

Both paths share three core phases:

• Preparation – Define system architecture, implement NIST 800‑53 controls, and assemble a compliance team.
• Authorization – Work with an accredited Third‑Party Assessment Organization (3PAO) to produce a Security Authorization Package (SSP, POA&M, etc.) and obtain a Provisional Authority to Operate (P‑ATO) or Agency ATO.
• Continuous monitoring – Conduct monthly vulnerability scans, annual assessments, and ongoing reporting.

FedRAMP compliance checklist

1. Document system architecture and data flows.
2. Implement NIST 800‑53 security controls and encryption.
3. Assemble a compliance team and engage a 3PAO.
4. Develop policies and procedures (incident response, change management, etc.).
5. Set up continuous monitoring tools for vulnerability management.
6. Prepare required documentation (SSP, POA&M, security assessment package).
7. Choose the appropriate authorization path (JAB vs. agency).
8. Submit the package and obtain the ATO, then maintain ConMon.

FedRAMP vs. other compliance frameworks

Understanding how FedRAMP aligns with frameworks like NIST 800‑53, FISMA, CMMC, and SOC 2 helps you map overlapping controls and streamline multiple certifications.

How Palisade can help

Palisade offers a FedRAMP‑ready email security platform that meets the rigorous requirements for federal cloud services. Our solution simplifies the authorization process, provides built‑in continuous monitoring, and ensures your email authentication is compliant out‑of‑the‑box.

Ready to start your FedRAMP journey? Contact Palisade today for a tailored compliance roadmap.

For more insights, read our Palisade blog on cloud security best practices.

Quick Takeaways

• FedRAMP is the federal standard for cloud security and continuous monitoring.
• Two authorization routes exist: JAB (government‑wide) and agency‑specific.
• Core phases: preparation, authorization, and continuous monitoring.
• Key requirements include NIST 800‑53 controls, 3PAO assessment, and ongoing ConMon.
• Mapping FedRAMP to other frameworks reduces duplicate effort.
• Palisade’s platform is FedRAMP‑ready, accelerating your compliance timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a JAB P‑ATO and an agency ATO?

A JAB P‑ATO is granted by the Joint Authorization Board and can be reused by any federal agency, while an agency ATO is specific to the sponsoring agency.

How long does the FedRAMP authorization process typically take?

JAB authorization can take 12‑18 months due to limited slots; agency authorization timelines vary but often range from 6‑12 months.

Do I need a 3PAO for every FedRAMP assessment?

Yes, an accredited Third‑Party Assessment Organization must conduct the security assessment and validate your documentation.

What continuous monitoring activities are required after authorization?

Monthly vulnerability scans, annual assessments, and regular reporting of security incidents and remediation actions.

Can Palisade’s email security solution simplify FedRAMP compliance?

Absolutely. Palisade is built to meet FedRAMP requirements out‑of‑the‑box, reducing the effort needed to achieve and maintain authorization.