CIQ Announces FIPS 140-3 Compliance for Rocky Linux
In a significant move to enhance security in open-source operating systems, CIQ has declared that both versions of Rocky Linux—community-driven and CIQ's proprietary version—have achieved compliance with the FIPS 140-3 standard. This development, which includes the latest Rocky Linux 8 and Rocky Linux 9.2, positions these distributions as secure options for enterprises and government agencies that require rigorous compliance measures.
Why FIPS 140-3 Matters
FIPS 140-3, or the Federal Information Processing Standard, sets a benchmark for cryptographic security required by many organizations, particularly in regulated sectors. The certification opens the door for Rocky Linux users to leverage validated security features, ensuring their critical workloads benefit from a fortified cryptographic environment.
Key Benefits of FIPS Compliance
The FIPS 140-3 certification translates to multiple advantages for organizations utilizing Rocky Linux:
- - Demonstrable Cryptographic Assurance: Organizations can reduce liability and augment compliance with demanding enterprise and government security standards, effectively minimizing negligence risks.
- - Increased Operational Efficiency: Pre-hardened components lessen the setup time and specialized skills needed to align systems with stringent security requirements.
- - Enhanced Trust: For potential clients in sectors where FIPS compliance is often essential, adopting Rocky Linux provides a robust option that aligns with their compliance needs.
As noted by Gregory Kurtzer, the CEO and founder of CIQ, achieving FIPS 140-3 certification for a Linux distribution is an intricate process.