#USA #Newark #OpenSSL #FIPS 140-3 #cryptographic

OpenSSL 3.1.2 Achieves FIPS 140-3 Validation

In a significant leap for digital security, OpenSSL Corporation has announced that its OpenSSL 3.1.2 version has successfully met the FIPS 140-3 validation set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This certification is a hallmark of security, reinforcing OpenSSL's fundamental role in safeguarding communication channels and data in vital sectors, including government, finance, and healthcare.

What is FIPS 140-3?

FIPS, which stands for Federal Information Processing Standards, provides a comprehensive framework that organizations can follow to ensure their cryptographic modules are secure enough to withstand potential threats. Achieving certification under FIPS 140-3 validates that a cryptographic product meets stringent security requirements and protocols. For organizations, having FIPS-compliant tools minimizes risks surrounding data breaches, particularly for those dealing with sensitive information.

Key Features of OpenSSL 3.1.2

OpenSSL 3.1.2’s certification under Certificate #4985 is not just an achievement in compliance; it signifies numerous enhancements within the product:

• - Expanded Cryptographic Algorithm Support: The latest version includes newly validated algorithms, enhancing the library's overall security capabilities.
• - Enhanced Security Compliance: By adhering to FIPS 140-3's latest standards, OpenSSL assures organizations that they are aligned with evolving regulatory requirements.
• - Industry-Wide Adoption: The certification solidifies OpenSSL’s position as a trusted cryptographic library worldwide, promoting its use across various applications.

The Benefits of FIPS 140-3 Compliance

Adopting OpenSSL 3.1.2 fosters an environment of trust crucial for businesses operating with sensitive data. Here are the benefits organizations can expect:

• - Verified Cryptographic Compliance: Organizations can rest assured that their security operations meet baseline requirements for data protection and integrity.
• - Regulatory Support: The certification assists in meeting encryption requirements mandated by government and financial sectors, ensuring that customer data remains secure.
• - Alignment with Updated Standards: With FIPS compliance, companies can feel confident that they are using cryptographic methods that adhere to the latest security guidelines.
• - Broad Industry Adoption: By leveraging a validated cryptographic library like OpenSSL, businesses globally can implement a rigorous security posture in their operations.

Tim Hudson’s Perspective

Tim Hudson, President of OpenSSL Corporation, emphasized the significance of this validation. He stated, "With OpenSSL 3.1.2 achieving FIPS 140-3 certification, organizations can deploy a certified cryptographic module confidently. We encourage businesses to assess their existing deployments, utilize OpenSSL’s comprehensive documentation, and engage with our technical support for seamless integration. Our FIPS rebranding services also enable enterprises to obtain validation under their branding, simplifying compliance and accelerating secure adoption."

A Note of Appreciation

The success of this validation owes much to the collaborative efforts of NIST’s Cryptographic Module Validation Program and the broader OpenSSL community. OpenSSL Corporation recognizes their contributions, which have been vital in developing secure, reliable cryptographic solutions for diverse communication needs.

Conclusion

The achievement of FIPS 140-3 validation by OpenSSL 3.1.2 represents a critical development in the realm of digital security. By meeting the latest cryptographic standards, OpenSSL reinforces its commitment to providing superior encryption solutions that power secure communications around the globe. For organizations considering the adoption of advanced security measures, OpenSSL 3.1.2 stands as a robust option tailored for the modern-day cybersecurity landscape.

For further information, you can follow the OpenSSL Corporation's Blog or visit the OpenSSL Community website.