Unlock the Power of Continuous Authority to Operate (cATO)
When a US federal agency needs a new software application or information system built, they need to make sure that they comply comprehensively with all set Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) standards as well as NIST RMF specifications. This includes getting a signed Authorization to Operate (ATO).
In the dynamic realm of modern software development, achieving and maintaining a static Authority to Operate (ATO) is no longer sufficient. Enter Continuous Authority to Operate (cATO), a transformative approach that redefines how organizations ensure security and compliance in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Tenets of Continuous ATO
Federal agencies have recognized that their ability to innovate and outpace dynamic threats is linked to having more systems operating under ongoing authorization or cATO. The reasons for the shift are clear when examining the major differences listed in the table below.
| Traditional ATO | Continuous ATO |
| Conducts assessments for a point in time | Promotes real-time visibility and response |
| Uses manual processes and produces outdated security and compliance data | Promotes more frequent and automated assessments as well as continuous security and compliance |
| Requires re-work and repetitive tasks | Leverages common controls for cost savings and efficiency |
| Does not incorporate DevSecOps practices | Promotes DevSecOps and newer teaming models |
| Focuses the culture on maintaining paper compliance over maintaining security | Focuses the culture on continuous monitoring, assessment, and prioritized remediation |
Three Main Metrics to Reach CATO
On-going Visibility
On-going visibility of key cybersecurity activities with continuous monitoring of RMF controls.
Real Time Threat Detection
The ability to conduct active cyber defense to respond to cyber threats in real time
DevSecOps Reference Design
The adoption and use of an approved DevSecOps reference design.
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Download this whitepaper to understand:
The ATO process and how to transition seamlessly to continuous Authority to Operate (cATO)
Enable continuous and connected hybrid multicloud monitoring assessment and reporting
Automate near real-time detection and remediation
Create an effective DevSecOps strategy by incorporating security and compliance at every step from development deployment