Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS)

FIPS, short for Federal Information Processing Standards, are a series of publicly recognized standards issued by the United States federal government. These standards are developed for use in computer systems by all non-military government agencies and by government contractors. FIPS guidelines and standards are aimed at ensuring security and interoperability of data handling and information processing systems.

The standards cover various aspects of information security, including encryption algorithms, security criteria for cryptographic modules, and standards for establishing secure computer systems. For example, FIPS 140 is a well-known standard that specifies the security requirements for cryptographic modules that protect sensitive information within government and military applications.

While FIPS standards are mandatory for federal government departments and agencies, they are also widely adopted in the private sector because they establish a recognized benchmark for security and can be instrumental in meeting compliance requirements in a variety of industries. These standards play a crucial role in enhancing the reliability and security of data processes, significantly influencing best practices in information security management across various sectors.