Securing DoD Cloud: Essential Steps for Provisional Authorization

As cloud computing becomes increasingly pivotal in supporting the operational capabilities of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), ensuring robust cloud security has become imperative. For cloud service providers (CSPs) aiming to engage with the DoD, understanding the security requirements and the pathway to obtain a provisional authorization is crucial. This involves not only meeting rigorous security standards but also acquiring necessary certifications and potentially seeking sponsorship.

Understanding Provisional Authorization

Provisional Authorization is an initial approval granted by the DoD to CSPs, allowing them to host government data at specified levels of security. It is a preliminary step before receiving full authorization, serving as an indication that the cloud service meets certain security requirements, allowing it to be used by the DoD under specific conditions.

Key Security Requirements for Provisional Authorization:

• Compliance with DoD’s Cloud Computing Security Requirements Guide (SRG): This document outlines specific security controls that CSPs must adhere to, categorized into Impact Levels (IL2, IL4, IL5, and IL6) based on data sensitivity and mission criticality.
• Implementation of Security Controls: CSPs must implement security controls that align with the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA), National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) publications, and other federal mandates.
• Continuous Monitoring: Requires the establishment of a continuous monitoring program to ensure ongoing compliance and rapid identification, assessment, and mitigation of vulnerabilities.

FedRAMP Certification and Its Role

The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is a government-wide program that provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services. For CSPs desiring to work with the DoD, FedRAMP certification is a requisite step, serving as a validation of their ability to secure federal information and systems.

Levels of FedRAMP Certification Necessary:

• FedRAMP Moderate: This level is generally required for systems handling data in Impact Levels 2 and 4, aligning with the need to manage Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
• FedRAMP High: Required for systems managing Impact Level 5 and above, reflecting the need to secure sensitive data, including law enforcement and emergency response data.

The process to achieve FedRAMP certification involves rigorous documentation, an exhaustive security assessment by a Third Party Assessment Organization (3PAO), and evaluation by the FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO).

Sponsorship and Its Possibilities

Securing sponsorship from a federal agency can significantly facilitate attaining the requisite provisional authorization from the DoD. This sponsorship acts as an endorsement of the CSP’s trustworthiness and capability to secure sensitive government data.

Potential Pathways for Sponsorship:

• Identifying Agency Advocates: CSPs should establish relationships with DoD components or other federal entities willing to act as sponsors, supporting their certification process and vouching for their capability to handle specific Impact Levels.
• Engaging in Pilot Projects: Participating in pilot programs with a DoD entity can offer a strategic entry point, showcasing the CSP’s capabilities and building trust with potential sponsors.
• Demonstrating Value-Add Services: Clearly articulating how the CSP’s services support the DoD’s strategic objectives, enhance operational efficiencies, and improve data security can encourage agencies to provide the necessary sponsorship.

Achieving a provisional authorization from the DoD is a multi-faceted endeavor that requires CSPs to align with stringent security standards, obtain FedRAMP certification, and potentially secure federal sponsorship. By understanding and navigating these requirements, CSPs can position themselves as capable partners in supporting the DoD’s cloud computing needs, enhancing national security through innovative and secure technological solutions. As the landscape of cloud security continues to evolve, CSPs must remain proactive in adapting to new demands and maintaining compliance with the rigorous standards set forth by both the FedRAMP and the DoD.