FedRAMP for cloud & SaaS providers
Selling software to a federal agency means proving your cloud environment meets FedRAMP's security baseline, and the program itself is mid-overhaul. We help you figure out which track fits and get the evidence in order.
Who this applies to
Cloud service providers and SaaS vendors who host, process, or transmit federal data, or who want to sell into agencies that require it. FedRAMP builds on the same NIST SP 800-53 control catalog that FedRAMP-adjacent enterprise customers often ask about even when full authorization isn't required.
A program in transition
FedRAMP's 2026 Consolidated Rules (CR26) took effect July 4, 2026, with enforcement beginning January 1, 2027. The changes are more than terminology, though the terminology changed too: "FedRAMP Authorized" is becoming "FedRAMP Certified," and the four legacy Impact Levels are being replaced with Classes A through D.
Existing Rev5 authorizations keep working, but Rev5 is being phased out: no new Rev5 applications will be accepted after June 11, 2027, and existing Rev5 authorizations sunset by the end of 2028. Some organizations with Rev5 Ready status can convert directly to a Class B or Class C certification starting August 10, 2026. If you're mid-authorization or just starting, which track you target changes your evidence requirements, your timeline, and your cost.
How we help
Snapshot Assessment
A gap analysis against the control baseline for your target class, plus a clear recommendation on Rev5 versus the 20x track. $9,500, 2 to 3 weeks.
Authorization prep
System Security Plan development, control implementation evidence, and coordination with your sponsoring agency or Third Party Assessment Organization.
Continuous monitoring
Ongoing evidence collection so annual assessments and the new availability reporting requirements don't become a scramble.
We advise and prepare; we are not a Third Party Assessment Organization (3PAO) and do not issue authorizations ourselves.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need FedRAMP or is a lighter framework enough?
If you're hosting or processing federal data directly, FedRAMP is typically required. If you're selling to a federal contractor rather than an agency, a strong SOC 2 or ISO 27001 posture with a NIST 800-53 crosswalk sometimes satisfies the requirement instead. We'll help you figure out which applies before you commit to the longer FedRAMP path.
What's actually changing with the 2026 rules?
The authorization process, terminology, and impact-level structure are all being replaced. Existing authorizations remain valid during the transition, but the path for new authorizations and the long-term sunset of Rev5 mean the target you're building toward is different than it was a year ago.
How long does FedRAMP authorization take?
It varies significantly by class, sponsor availability, and your starting security posture. Expect it to be measured in months, not weeks. The Snapshot gives you a realistic estimate for your specific situation instead of a generic industry average.
Figure out which track fits
A short conversation covers your customer base, current posture, and whether Rev5 or the new certification classes make more sense for you.