Unpacking the NIST 800-53 Rev 5 FedRAMP Update

Updating FedRAMP packages based on the intricate maze of NIST 800-53 Rev 5 changes could be a formidable task for many organizations. However, adopting Risk Solutions on an efficient platform like Paramify can simplify this journey, facilitating compliance with the new standards and offering a smoother passage through the revision's complexities.

Kenny Scott
|
53
min read

In This Article

FedRAMP Rev 5 has Moved, Split, Removed, and Added Controls.

Ah, the joys of updates in federal compliance standards!

The release of NIST 800-53 Rev 5 is a bit like that time I thought I'd impressed my mom by tidying up my room. All I did was shuffle my laundry heap from the floor to the closet. She glanced around and cheered, "Voila! Spotless!" But we both knew it was the same mess in a different place – much like Rev 5’s Moved Requirements.

Then there's the charm of Split Requirements, akin to ordering a pizza and getting it delivered slice by slice. Still a whole pizza, sure, but it means answering the door eight times.

Don't forget Removed Requirements – I know you worked hard on that VOiP control, but no one cares.

And then, as if out of a bad horror movie sequel, here come the New Requirements, with fourth-party vendors emerging from the shadows like unexpected beasts. 

While the control count appears to have shrunk, much like my eagerness to clean my room, the actual workload has mounted, jumping by 13% for high-risk categories. Akin to the spike in my stress levels every tax season.

Fun times! But fear not, we've got this. Let's dive in.

FedRAMP Control Counts

The burden of the transition relates mostly to documentation.

Alright, so if we're looking at the tables that came right out of the FedRAMP cookbook, we've got the control changes in the High, Moderate, Low, and Li-SaaS categories from NIST 800-53 Rev 4 to Rev 5:

Rev4 to Rev5: Changes to FedRAMP Controls

At first glance, you'd think, "Woohoo! Downhill run! Fewer controls in High and Moderate, sounds like an easy cruise, right?"

It's like when you start a diet and the first day, you lose 2 pounds. You think, "Hey, this isn't so bad!"

But then you notice the Low and Li-SaaS categories had to go and spoil the party. They've bulked up like they're preparing for a hibernation, going up by 25% and 127%, respectively.

But then, like a surprise twist in a sitcom, we get the Actual Requirements:

Actual FedRAMP Requirements 

Just like realizing your preferred 'low-calorie' meal is brimming with carbs, the layers within these controls have a surprise in store.

These numbers have no intention of embarking on a weight-loss journey. High went up by 13%, Moderate by 16%, and Low and Li-SaaS?

They're getting their winter coats ready, going up by a solid 34% and 86%, respectively.

Rev4 to Rev5: Actual Changes in Requirements[1]

Closer Look at Control Families

Then, we move onto the Control Families.

It's kind of like getting your whole extended family together for a reunion and realizing Aunt Mildred had triplets since the last gathering.

Looking at these numbers, it's clear that some families have definitely been busier than others. Things like Access Control, Configuration Management, Contingency Planning, and System and Services Acquisition have not been lazing around.

But wait, there's more!

To really spice up the compliance soup, we have a new category to consider – "Supply Chain Risk Management".

Big shoutout to Chris Hughes, a leader in this space, for his pioneering work. Dive into his illuminating book or his insightful podcast episode. Hats off to Chris for lighting the path!

FedRAMP (NIST 800-53 Rev 4) Requirements Breakdown
FedRAMP (NIST 800-53 Rev 5) Requirements Breakdown[1]

Changes in the SSP

Crafting a quality System Security Plan (SSP) while keeping up with regulatory changes is like building a complex sandcastle on the beach, just to have the wave come in and scatter everything.

SSP Change Summary

But, let's not get too dramatic. Fortunately, for those using Risk Solutions, you've got 14 shiny new solutions at your disposal. They're like magic tricks for your security controls.

New Parameters in NIST 800-53 Rev 5

Oh Hey PARAMETERS! GOOD TO SEE YOU!

Just when you thought it was over, we need to update the new PARAMETERS. It's like finding another hidden level in your favorite video game, but way less fun.

Rev 4 to Rev 5 parameters

As you can see, the parameters have decided to jump up on the bandwagon as well, with increases in all categories. It's like adding extra toppings on an already overstuffed pizza.

You thought the supreme was enough?

Nope, here come the anchovies, olives, mushrooms, and extra cheese!

Steering through the twists and turns of the new NIST 800-53 Rev 5 can feel like attempting to navigate a labyrinth while blindfolded and juggling flaming torches. It's no leisurely stroll, but this is where Paramify comes to the rescue.

With our help, tackling these parameters becomes as breezy as a walk in the park on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

How Do Risk Solutions help?

Navigating the twists and turns of NIST 800-53 Rev 5 doesn't need to feel like an uphill battle. Armed with Paramify's Risk Solutions, you'll find a streamlined strategy for tackling the new requirements and changes.

Think of it as reducing a complicated riddle into a set of simple, solvable puzzles.

Risk Solutions act as your real-time compliance compass, providing clear visibility into your risk posture and allowing for swift, mid-course corrections.

With Risk Solutions, you're not just prepared to weather the compliance storm, but to steer confidently through it.

Check this out for a refresher on building your own Risk Solutions. You'll find helpful insights and practical advice to set you on the right path within the NIST 800-53 Rev 5 landscape.

Get a free demo to see for yourself!

Get a demo to see, in detail, how you can instantly, completely, and accurately upgrade your FedRAMP Package from Rev. 4 to Rev. 5 without hiring a tech writer.

The PMO would like your plans in their hands soon. The time to act is now.

[1] These numbers have been updated based upon the newest control templates released by the FedRAMP PMO. Previous numbers were estimates.

Kenny Scott
Kenny is an accomplished leader with a two decade tenure in Information Security and IT Audit. He's widely acknowledged in the industry and has a profound dedication to it. In addition to his technical expertise, Kenny's portfolio includes substantial experience in business strategy, investment, and programming. On the personal side, Kenny is a devoted husband to Angie Scott and a proud father of five. A music enthusiast, he relishes playing the guitar and enjoys surfing when a beach is within reach.
Jun 2023
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can compliance advisors or consultants work in Paramify with us, and does it help with managed-service models?

Absolutely. Paramify is used by many advisory partners, RPOs, and MSPs to guide, generate, and manage documentation, perform gap assessments, facilitate policy/procedure drafting, and oversee remediation activities. Advisors can fill out templates, manage controls, and generate client-ready documents.

We have privacy or compliance concerns, can we restrict what external reviewers can access?

Yes, you can assign role-based access controls in Paramify. Advisors or auditors can be given access only to certain programs, assessment and their related evidence.

Sensitive information can be withheld or redacted as needed, and only authorized reviewers see specific items.

Can auditors or advisory partners get direct access to our Paramify environment, or do we have to export everything for them?

Yes, Paramify allows external assessors/auditors and advisors to be invited as users, with controlled permission levels. They can review specific evidence, policies, SSPs, POA&Ms, or assessment modules without accessing broader company data. 

Documentation — such as Appendix A, SSPs, procedures, and POAMs — can also be exported in multiple standard formats (Word, Excel, OSCAL, EMASS, PDF) as needed.

Can I get matched with an Advisor based on my specific needs?

Yes. You can use the Get Matched feature on our website. We will review your specific compliance goals and connect you with the partner best suited for your industry and timeline.

How do Advisors use Paramify during a FedRAMP engagement?

Advisors use Paramify to conduct Gap Assessments, map controls, Automate SSPs, and manage POA&Ms.

Instead of spending months writing Word documents, the Advisor inputs the system architecture and control implementations into Paramify, which then generates the required NIST-formatted documentation.

Does Paramify compete with its Advisors?

No. Paramify is a software company. We do not offer independent audit or long-term consulting services. Our goal is to empower Advisors with better tools so they can serve more clients effectively.

What are the different partner tiers?

We feature Premier Partners prominently on our site. These are firms that have demonstrated a high level of proficiency with the Paramify platform and have successfully helped many clients through the authorization process using our tools.

How do I become an official Paramify Advisor Partner?

We look for firms with a proven track record in federal compliance. If you are interested in joining our network and leveraging our automation products, you can reach out via our contact page or schedule a demo to see how our tools fit into your workflow.

What is the benefit of using an Advisor who uses Paramify vs. one who doesn't?

Advisors using Paramify can accelerate your implementation and typically deliver documentation in a fraction of the time it takes without Paramify. This means:

  • Faster Implementation: An accelerated implementation roadmap keeps timelines predictable.
  • Lower Costs: Reduced manual consultant hours.
  • Higher Accuracy: Automation eliminates the "copy-paste" errors common in traditional SSPs.
  • Easier Maintenance: Your Advisor can help you manage POA&Ms and continuous monitoring within the platform.
Does working with an Advisor on this list guarantee FedRAMP or CMMC authorization?

No firm can "guarantee" authorization, as the final decision rests with the government authorizing body (e.g., the FedRAMP PMO or the DoD).

However, working with a Paramify Advisor significantly reduces the risk of documentation errors and ensures your package is built on a technically sound, automated foundation.

How do I choose the right Advisor for my organization?

Our Advisor page allows you to filter partners by their specific expertise, such as FedRAMP, CMMC, FISMA, or GovRAMP.

Why does Paramify partner with Advisors?

Paramify is an “Iron Man suit” for GRC experts. We provide automation technology to generate and manage compliance documentation (like SSPs snd POA&Ms) while Advisors provide the expert human oversight and implementation expertise.

Together, we offer a "best-of-both-worlds" solution: expert consulting powered by industry-leading automation and risk management planning.

What is the Paramify Advisor Partner Network?

The Paramify Advisor Partner Network is a curated group of cybersecurity and compliance firms — including CMMC Registered Practitioner Organizations (RPOs) and accredited 3PAOs — that use Paramify’s platform to deliver faster, more accurate compliance outcomes for their clients.

I already have an advisor or very capable GRC team. Why do I need Paramify?

Use Paramify's Risk Solution platform to automate ATO packages, improving cost efficiency, speed, and accuracy. This frees your team to focus on more valuable efforts like security posture enhancement and compliance improvements.