FedRAMP 20x: Key Changes and Impacts to Cloud Service Providers

Recent changes to FedRAMP® have sparked conversations about the program’s future, but one fact remains clear: FedRAMP is here to stay. Recognized as a critical program by the General Services Administration (GSA), it plays a key role in ensuring the security of cloud services used by federal agencies. That said, as the program evolves, notable changes are imminent.  

On March 24th, 2025, FedRAMP made a public announcement outlining its vision for the program's future – known as FedRAMP 20x. This vision includes significant changes to the existing process with the goal of making FedRAMP more accessible to a wider range of cloud service providers (CSPs). With updates aimed at reducing barriers to entry, pursuing FedRAMP has become a more viable option for many organizations, especially those previously deterred by lengthy approval timelines.  

In this blog, we’ll explore the upcoming changes to FedRAMP, the opportunities they present for CSPs pursuing FedRAMP for the first time, as well as for those already authorized, and why the program’s significance will only continue to increase. 

Impact on CSPs Starting Their FedRAMP Journey 

The FedRAMP 20x updates bring many opportunities for CSPs who are just starting their FedRAMP journey. These updates aim to simplify and accelerate the authorization process, making it more accessible to a broader range of vendors. 

One of the key opportunities that have emerged in recent weeks is the significant reduction in government review timelines. In the past, obtaining FedRAMP authorization could take months, or even up to a year, due to the extensive review process from FedRAMP. However, recent efforts to streamline the authorization process have significantly shortened these timelines, offering CSPs a more predictable and smoother path to market and return on investment. 

For CSPs, this means less waiting time and a quicker path to becoming FedRAMP-authorized, which is crucial in an environment where speed and agility can provide a competitive edge. 

Impact on CSPs with an Existing FedRAMP Authorization 

The recent changes to FedRAMP can understandably create some confusion for FedRAMP-authorized CSPs, especially given the evolving processes and new guidelines. However, it’s important for CSPs with existing FedRAMP authorizations to stay the course and remain focused on executing their continuous monitoring (ConMon) activities and annual assessments.  

Despite potential future changes, the core requirement to maintain a secure and compliant environment remains unchanged. Regular ConMon ensures your system stays in alignment with FedRAMP’s rigorous security standards, while annual assessments allow for a thorough review and update of your security posture for agency customers. 

By adhering to these activities, CSPs not only maintain their FedRAMP compliance but also reinforce their commitment to security, which is essential for ongoing relationships with federal agencies and customers. Even with the uncertainty of new rules and updates, staying proactive in these key areas will ensure continued success and readiness for any future shifts in FedRAMP requirements. 

FedRAMP's Automation Vision and the Unknowns 

As FedRAMP evolves, one of the most discussed initiatives is the vision for automating key aspects of the assessment and authorization process. Automation has the potential to significantly streamline the FedRAMP journey, reduce manual intervention, and create efficiencies that could ultimately shorten timelines, reduce costs, and improve overall consistency across the program. 

However, while the vision for automation is promising, there are still several unknowns when it comes to execution and implementation. The integration of these automated processes within the current FedRAMP ecosystem will require significant investment and careful planning. Therefore, it remains to be seen how quickly the automation capabilities will be fully developed and rolled out, and how effectively they will align with the diverse needs of both CSPs and government agencies. 

Navigating FedRAMP’s Evolving Landscape 

The lowering of barriers to entry into FedRAMP, including the reduction of government review timelines, has created new opportunities for CSPs to enter into the federal market. On the other hand, CSPs that have already obtained FedRAMP authorization may be uncertain about what the future holds. 

While FedRAMP’s vision for automation promises to simplify the process, the full implementation and impact of these changes are still unfolding. As the program evolves, CSPs will need to stay closely informed about these developments to effectively take advantage of opportunities arising from automation, streamlined processes, and regulatory updates, but in the meantime, they should stay the course. 

For organizations aiming to differentiate themselves in the cybersecurity and cloud services market, pursuing and maintaining FedRAMP is more than just a compliance requirement—it’s a chance to gain a competitive advantage by demonstrating a strong commitment to security, while also unlocking new opportunities within the federal market. 

If you’re ready to begin your FedRAMP journey, or have any other questions about the recent updates or assessment process, Schellman can help. Contact us today and we’ll get back to you shortly.  In the meantime, discover other trending FedRAMP insights here: FedRAMP at a Crossroads: A “Lifetime” 3PAO’s Perspective.