NIST 800-53 Policies and Procedures - A Big Part of FISMA Compliance

Documentation, specifically, developing all required information security, cybersecurity, privacy, and operational-specific policies, procedures, programs, plans, AND authoring the System Security Plan (SSP) is essential for FISMA.  Because FISMA utilizes the NIST SP 800-53 controls, federal contractors will need to spend a large amount of time writing comprehensive, well-written security documentation. 

The importance of NIST 800-53, formally known as the "Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations," cannot be overstated in today's interconnected digital landscape. This comprehensive framework, developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), serves as a crucial guide for organizations, both in the public and private sectors, to strengthen their cybersecurity postures. NIST 800-53 provides a structured and adaptable set of security controls, tailored to address the evolving threat landscape and the varying needs of different organizations.

First and foremost, NIST 800-53 helps organizations enhance their cybersecurity resilience by systematically identifying, assessing, and mitigating security risks. It offers a robust foundation for building a layered defense strategy, covering a wide range of security domains, from access control and encryption to incident response and continuous monitoring. Compliance with NIST 800-53 not only safeguards sensitive data and critical systems but also bolsters an organization's reputation, instills trust among stakeholders, and ensures regulatory compliance. 

Additionally, its adaptability makes it relevant not only for federal agencies but also for private sector companies, making it a versatile and widely recognized standard that helps organizations proactively manage cybersecurity challenges and stay resilient in the face of evolving threats. In summary, NIST 800-53 is a cornerstone for organizations striving to fortify their cybersecurity practices and protect their digital assets in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

100 + NIST 800-53 Templates Available for Download at the Arlington Security Portal (ASP)

The solution for federal contractors is the Arlington Security Portal (ASP), an online repository of world-class, industry leading security and privacy policies & procedures, programs, plans – and other highly essential documents & templates developed specifically on NIST SP 800-53, Revision 5. 

From Beginning to End, Complete Project Management for FISMA

With Arlington, we can manage your entire FISMA compliance engagement from beginning to end (i.e., from the initial FISMA scoping & gap assessment to post-Authorization to Operate (ATO) activities), providing essential services for getting you to the finish line in terms of FISMA compliance.  Core services and solutions offered include the following:

• Scoping & Gap (i.e., Readiness) Assessments
• Remediation Services (Policy and Procedures writing)
• Remediation Services (Technical and Operational)
• System Security Plan (SSP) Development
• Independent Security Assessment Reports (SAR)
• Continuous Monitoring (ConMon) Services

About Arlington

We are Arlington, a team of innovative, solution-oriented, highly agile, and well-versed professionals with decades of experience in working with America’s defense industry. From emerging cybersecurity regulations to helping our clients solve complex security & compliance solutions – and so much more – you can trust Arlington, the firm that’s Dedicated to Defense®.  Learn more at arlingtonintel.com.