The Department of Defense (DoD) Cloud Computing Security Requirements Guide (SRG) outlines the stringent security requirements required for the use of cloud services within the DoD. It is a framework that defines the security and compliance requirements cloud service providers must meet to store, process, or transmit DoD’s data in the cloud. Organizations must comply with these security requirements to use cloud services to maintain operational integrity.
This article provides an overview of security requirements that help organizations maintain a secure cloud environment while supporting the mission-critical operations of the DoD.
Key Security Objectives of the DoD SRG:
- Confidentiality: Protect DoD’s data from unauthorized access.
- Integrity: Prevent unauthorized modifications to maintain accuracy and reliability.
- Availability: Keep mission-critical systems accessible.
Why it Matters
The SRG framework helps ensure that cloud services used by the DoD must comply security standards. The framework helps maintain operational integrity, protect sensitive data, and ensure cloud providers manage DoD workloads securely and compliantly.
The SRG ensures:
- Cloud providers meet rigorous security expectations.
- Data is protected throughout its lifecycle.
- Only vetted CSPs can handle DoD workloads.
A real-world example:
In February 2023, a Microsoft-operated Azure server used by the DoD was found publicly accessible with no password protection. The Department of Defense (DoD) secured an exposed server that was spilling internal U.S. military emails to the open internet for two weeks. Such incidents emphasize why strict cloud security requirements are non-negotiable when dealing with national defense assets.
What is Needed
To manage DoD’s data, cloud service providers (CSPs) must comply with cloud security requirements that categorize cloud environments into Impact Levels based on security needs and data sensitivity.
Each level comes with specific security controls that must be implemented.
| Impact Level | Description | Data Types | Required Authorization |
| IL2 | Low-impact cloud services | Public data or low sensitivity | FedRAMP Moderate |
| IL4 | CUI with moderate confidentiality needs | Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) | FedRAMP Moderate + DoD Enhancements |
| IL5 | CUI with national security implications | Mission-critical CUI | FedRAMP High + Enhanced DoD Controls |
| IL6 | Classified National Security Systems | Secret/Top Secret | Special Authorization – DoD only |
How to Comply: A Step-by-Step Authorization Process
The SRG Compliance Lifecycle outlines the key phases a cloud service provider goes through – from initial planning to ongoing monitoring. To meet security requirements, organizations must follow a structured compliance lifecycle.
Step 1: FedRAMP Authorization
Cloud service providers must first obtain FedRAMP Moderate or High authorization, depending on the intended IL level.
Step 2: Implement DoD SRG Controls
Implement SRG-specific DoD security requirements, such as:
- Dual-factor authentication
- Encrypted data at rest and in transit
- U.S. citizen personnel for handling IL4/5 workloads
Step 3: DISA Assessment
Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) conducts an assessment of the cloud environment against SRG requirements. Work with DISA to undergo a security assessment.
Step 4: Obtain Provisional Authorization (PA)
Cloud service provider is granted Provisional Authorization (PA) to operate, allowing DoD components to deploy workloads.
Step 5: Maintain Continuous Compliance
Regular audits, vulnerability scans, and incident response plans are mandatory to retain compliance.
5. Conclusion
Complying with the SRG guide is essential for any cloud service provider handling DoD data. By following to these security requirements, organizations can ensure the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of sensitive information while supporting mission-critical operations. Following the SRG framework not only strengthens security posture but also enables trusted collaboration with the Department of Defense (DoD) in a secure and compliant cloud environment.
To comply with DoD SRG requirements, organizations must implement and document security controls that are aligned with their specific impact level and cloud service offering.
