Definition
FISMA, the Federal Information Security Management Act, is a United States federal law that requires federal agencies to develop, document, and implement an information security program. It mandates that agencies protect their information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. FISMA operates by establishing a framework for risk management, requiring agencies to conduct security assessments, implement security controls, and report on their security posture. This is crucial for protecting sensitive government data and ensuring the continuity of government operations. For example, a federal agency must implement specific encryption standards and access controls for its citizen data databases under FISMA guidelines. A common point of confusion is mistaking FISMA for a specific technology, when it is actually a legislative mandate that drives technology choices. FISMA is a key concept covered on security certifications like Security+, CySA+, and CISSP.