Appian Government Cloud Achieves Major Milestone with FedRAMP High Authorization

Appian Government Cloud Achieves FedRAMP High Authorization

In a significant milestone for cloud security, Appian (NASDAQ: APPN) has announced that its Appian Government Cloud (AGC) has received the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP®) High authorization. This accomplishment not only bolsters the platform's status but also allows it to securely host highly sensitive civilian data for federal customers, where potential data breaches could lead to severe consequences, including loss of life or considerable financial impact.

What is FedRAMP High Authorization?

FedRAMP is a government-wide initiative that establishes a standardized approach to security assessments, authorizations, and continuous monitoring for cloud services deployed in federal agencies. The High designation is reserved for cloud providers that have successfully undergone a strict third-party security evaluation, enabling them to handle sensitive unclassified data that may be critical to national security and the well-being of the public.

This includes data related to law enforcement, emergency services, health systems, and financial operations—all sectors where data breaches could have dire repercussions. The stringent security protocols in place under FedRAMP's High baseline ensure that the government’s most sensitive information remains secure within cloud environments.

Significance of the AGC's Authorization

The recent FedRAMP High authorization adds to the credibility of AGC as a cloud service capable of managing sensitive information. Michael Beckley, Appian's Founder and Chief Technology Officer, expressed the importance of this achievement, stating, "Achieving FedRAMP High and IL5 means that government customers can now implement the directive of the administration's Executive Order on Federal Agency AI Use and securely add AI across their business processes."

The AGC platform, characterized as both a Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution, enables federal civilian entities and the Department of Defense (DoD) to enhance operational processes while adhering to strict security standards. The IL5 compliance allows AGC to securely host Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), crucial for mission-critical functions.

Renewed Trust from the Department of Defense

In addition to the FedRAMP High authorization, Appian has also renewed its three-year Provisional Authority to Operate (PA) from the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) for AGC at the Impact Level 5 (IL5). This renewal signifies the Department of Defense's ongoing confidence in Appian's capability to uphold industry-leading security and operational availability.

A Decade of Commitment to Security

Appian's commitment to security is exemplified by its decade-long adherence to FedRAMP standards. Since 2015, Appian Cloud has maintained its FedRAMP Moderate status, achieving the High designation for AGC has marked its 10th consecutive year of compliance. This dedication offers Appian's clients a secure foundation for implementing AI solutions, improving risk management, and fostering transparency in federal operations.

Currently, Appian Cloud services 22 different federal agencies, including notable departments such as the Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Labor, and Department of State. The recent achievements in our FedRAMP journey represent a continuation of Appian's deep-rooted history of collaboration with the U.S. Government over the past 25 years.

Future Directions

The recent FedRAMP High authorization and IL5 compliance also open doors for enhanced integration of AI technologies across federal operations. With the security of AGC confirmed, agencies can innovate and improve efficiency without compromising data safety. As Appian continues to expand its client roster, having gained the trust of every cabinet-level agency, it stands to revolutionize how governmental processes are managed in a secure cloud environment.

For more information about Appian Government Cloud and its public sector offerings, visit Appian's public sector page.