FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standards)

Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) are a set of standards that are developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States. The purpose of FIPS is to establish uniform requirements and guidelines for information systems used by federal agencies and contractors.

FIPS cover a wide range of topics related to information technology, including encryption algorithms, data security, computer interfaces, and more. Some examples of FIPS standards include:

1. FIPS 140-2: This standard specifies the requirements for cryptographic modules used by federal agencies and contractors. It includes requirements for the design, testing, and implementation of encryption algorithms and key management systems.
2. FIPS 199: This standard provides guidance for categorizing information and information systems based on their level of impact on national security, confidentiality, and availability.
3. FIPS 201: This standard defines the requirements for a common identification and authentication framework for federal employees and contractors.
4. FIPS 186-4: This standard specifies the requirements for digital signatures used for electronic transactions and communications.
5. FIPS 180-4: This standard defines the requirements for secure hashing algorithms used for digital signatures, data integrity, and other applications.

FIPS are important for ensuring the security and reliability of information systems used by federal agencies and contractors. By establishing uniform requirements and guidelines, FIPS help to ensure that information systems are designed and implemented in a way that protects sensitive data and supports critical government functions.

However, FIPS are not without controversy. Critics argue that the strict requirements imposed by FIPS can stifle innovation and limit the ability of government agencies to adopt new technologies. In addition, some have raised concerns about the effectiveness of FIPS standards in the face of rapidly evolving threats to information security.

Despite these criticisms, FIPS remain an important tool for promoting information security and supporting the mission of federal agencies and contractors.

See Also

• IT Strategy (Information Technology Strategy)
• IT Governance
• Enterprise Architecture
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• IT Sourcing (Information Technology Sourcing)
• IT Operations (Information Technology Operations)
• E-Strategy