FedRAMP Low Revision 4 IA Benchmark

The Identification and Authentication (IA) benchmark for FedRAMP Low Revision 4 focuses on establishing guidelines to ensure secure user identification and authentication in cloud environments. This benchmark plays a vital role in the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP), providing a standardized approach for assessing security in cloud products used by the federal government, especially for low-impact information systems.

The IA benchmark is crucial for maintaining robust security measures and safeguarding sensitive data within cloud computing settings. It requires cloud service providers (CSPs) to implement various authentication controls to verify user identities effectively, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) and stringent password complexity standards.

CSPs must enforce measures like strong authentication mechanisms, password complexity criteria, account lockout systems after repeated failed login attempts, session timeout protocols, and audit logging features to monitor user activities within the system. These requirements aim to prevent unauthorized access, mitigate potential security threats, and secure information systems from data breaches or unauthorized activities.

Compliance with the IA benchmark is vital for CSPs seeking FedRAMP authorization. By adhering to these guidelines, CSPs can enhance security levels, uphold data confidentiality, integrity, and availability, and ensure a robust defense against unauthorized access or breaches in federal information systems.