Most security standards, including government standards, require cryptography. We are generally familiar with implementing a cryptographic algorithm that meets these requirements and calling it a day. However, to ensure security, NIST also publishes standards for validating encryption modules to ensure they serve their purpose under federal standards. 

Here, we’re discussing the Cryptographic Algorithm Validation Program and its relationship to closely related standards and programs, such as Federal Information Processing Standards and the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program. 

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IT security in the federal market is layered and multifaceted. Specific requirements exist for different types of data platforms and technologies. At a more granular level, standards have been developed for individual IT products: NIAP Protection Profiles.

This article will cover why these profiles are essential for federal security, how to find them, and what to do if there isn’t an available profile to follow. 

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Recently, FedRAMP announced that, per stakeholder feedback, the federal market’s needs for cloud SaaS products are not being met. A significant part of this is the program’s bottleneck. 

To address this issue, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has released a draft memo offering significant program changes, including updates to infrastructure, leadership, and authorization. 

This article will briefly overview this new roadmap based on the information currently available to the public. 

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