ISO 27017
International code for cloud information security controls
FedRAMP
U.S. program standardizing federal cloud security authorization
Quick Verdict
ISO 27017 extends ISO 27001 with cloud-specific controls for global CSPs and customers, while FedRAMP mandates NIST-based assessments for U.S. federal cloud services. Companies adopt ISO 27017 for international compliance; FedRAMP for government contracts.
ISO 27017
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 Code of practice for cloud security
Key Features
- Introduces 7 cloud-specific security controls
- Provides guidance for 37 ISO 27002 controls in cloud
- Clarifies shared responsibilities for CSPs and CSCs
- Ensures multi-tenancy segregation in virtual environments
- Enables customer monitoring of cloud activities
FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Key Features
- NIST 800-53 Rev 5 controls with impact baselines
- Independent 3PAO security assessments required
- Continuous monitoring with quarterly/annual reporting
- Assess once, use many times reusability
- FedRAMP Marketplace for authorized CSP listings
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
ISO 27017 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 is a code of practice extending ISO/IEC 27002 with cloud-specific guidance. It provides implementation advice for information security controls in cloud services, focusing on public, private, and hybrid models across IaaS, PaaS, SaaS. Its risk-based approach integrates into ISO 27001 ISMS.
Key Components
- Guidance on 37 ISO 27002 controls adapted for cloud.
- 7 additional CLD controls (e.g., shared responsibilities, VM segregation).
- Dual perspectives for CSPs and CSCs.
- Assessed within ISO 27001 audits, no standalone certification.
Why Organizations Use It
Enhances cloud risk management, clarifies shared duties, supports GDPR/CCPA alignment. Builds trust with customers/regulators, differentiates CSPs in procurement. Reduces incidents from misconfigurations/multi-tenancy.
Implementation Overview
Integrate via ISO 27001 risk assessment, map controls, update SoA. Key steps: define responsibilities, harden VMs, enable monitoring. Suits CSPs/CSCs of all sizes; joint audits take 9-12 months.
FedRAMP Details
What It Is
FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) is a U.S. government-wide framework standardizing security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud service offerings (CSOs) used by federal agencies. Its risk-based approach leverages NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 controls across Low, Moderate, and High impact levels per FIPS 199.
Key Components
- **Baselines~156 (Low), ~323 (Moderate), ~410 (High) controls; LI-SaaS for simplified SaaS.
- **Core artifactsSystem Security Plan (SSP), Security Assessment Report (SAR), Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M).
- Built on NIST standards; requires 3PAO assessments and continuous monitoring.
- Authorization paths: Agency or Program ATOs.
Why Organizations Use It
- Unlocks federal contracts (e.g., $20M+ opportunities).
- Mandatory for CMMC contractors; enhances commercial trust.
- Reduces risk duplication via "assess once, use many times."
- Competitive edge in government procurement.
Implementation Overview
- Multi-phase: Preparation, 3PAO assessment, authorization, monitoring.
- Suited for CSPs targeting U.S. federal market.
- High complexity; 12-18 months typical; 3PAO audits required.
Key Differences
| Aspect | ISO 27017 | FedRAMP |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cloud-specific security controls in ISMS | U.S. federal cloud authorization and monitoring |
| Industry | All cloud users/providers globally | U.S. federal agencies and contractors |
| Nature | Voluntary guidance, ISO 27001 extension | Mandatory for federal cloud, standardized program |
| Testing | ISO 27001 audits include cloud controls | 3PAO assessments, continuous monitoring |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, no legal fines | Revocation, contract ineligibility, no direct fines |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ISO 27017 and FedRAMP
ISO 27017 FAQ
FedRAMP FAQ
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