FISMA: Federal Information Security Modernization Act in Cybersecurity
FISMA stands for Federal Information Security Modernization Act. FISMA is the U.S. law that requires federal agencies and their contractors to develop, document, and implement information security programs. It mandates annual security assessments and continuous monitoring of federal information systems.
How FISMA Is Used in Cybersecurity
GRC analysts in federal cybersecurity roles manage FISMA compliance by maintaining Authority to Operate (ATO) packages and conducting annual assessments. Security engineers implement NIST SP 800-53 controls on federal systems and configure continuous monitoring tools. FISMA compliance is a core requirement for anyone working in U.S. government cybersecurity.
Read the full glossary entry: FISMA in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Roles That Work with FISMA
Related Cybersecurity Acronyms
Frequently asked questions
What does FISMA stand for?
FISMA stands for Federal Information Security Modernization Act. FISMA is the U.S. law that requires federal agencies and their contractors to develop, document, and implement information security programs. It mandates annual security assessments and continuous monitoring of federal information systems.
What is FISMA used for in cybersecurity?
GRC analysts in federal cybersecurity roles manage FISMA compliance by maintaining Authority to Operate (ATO) packages and conducting annual assessments. Security engineers implement NIST SP 800-53 controls on federal systems and configure continuous monitoring tools. FISMA compliance is a core requirement for anyone working in U.S. government cybersecurity.
Sources
Definitions are original explanations written for career development purposes. For authoritative technical definitions, refer to NIST, ISO, or the relevant standards body.