FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) is a U.S. government-wide program that standardizes security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services used by federal agencies. Established to ensure that cloud services used by the federal government meet rigorous security requirements, FedRAMP creates a unified framework that enables cloud service providers to pursue a single authorization reusable across multiple agencies.
How FedRAMP Works: FedRAMP functions through a structured process combining initial security assessment, formal authorization, and ongoing continuous monitoring. Cloud service providers work with accredited Third-Party Assessment Organizations (3PAOs) that conduct comprehensive security testing. Vendors pursue authorization through either the Joint Authorization Board (JAB) or through an individual agency sponsor.
FedRAMP Impact Levels: The program categorizes cloud services into three impact levels based on the potential harm from data compromise:
Low Impact: Systems where compromise would have limited adverse effects on agency operations, assets, or individuals
Moderate Impact: Systems where compromise could cause serious adverse effects; the majority of federal cloud deployments fall into this category
High Impact: Systems where compromise could have severe or catastrophic effects, such as law enforcement or emergency services systems
FedRAMP Governance: The program operates through collaborative governance involving the Joint Authorization Board (JAB), which consists of CIOs from the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and General Services Administration; the Program Management Office (PMO) within GSA; and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Benefits of FedRAMP Authorization: For cloud providers, FedRAMP authorization enables access to the federal market and signals a high level of security maturity to all customers. For agencies, FedRAMP provides assurance that authorized cloud services meet NIST 800-53 security controls and enables faster procurement through the "authorize once, use many times" model.
Pangratis has achieved FedRAMP Moderate Authorization, enabling federal agencies to leverage Pangratis AI's advanced email security capabilities while meeting their regulatory security requirements.