What Is FedRAMP?
When it comes to cloud services for government, not just any platform will do. FedRAMP, or the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, is the gold standard that says, “This one’s secure enough for federal data.” It streamlines how agencies vet cloud services, putting every provider through a rigorous security check before they’re cleared for use.
Why It Matters in the Public Sector
When agencies handle sensitive data, such as veteran records, national research, and public health information, there’s no room for missteps. FedRAMP is designed to safeguard that data. A service authorized under this program has passed rigorous testing by accredited assessors and has been reviewed by security teams at sponsoring agencies. For public sector decision-makers, that means less red tape and fewer delays. If a platform is FedRAMP-authorized, there’s no need to start from scratch with security audits. It’s already been done.
FedRAMP Impact Levels: Low, Moderate, and High
FedRAMP authorization comes in three levels. “Low” covers systems with minimal data risk—think public websites. “Moderate” is where things get serious, covering controlled unclassified information that, if compromised, could cause real damage. “High” is for the most sensitive systems, often in defence or intelligence. Most civilian agencies operate at the Moderate level, making it the sweet spot for platforms hoping to break into the federal space.
WordPress VIP’s Journey to FedRAMP Authorization
From LI-SaaS to Full Moderate ATO
WordPress VIP’s climb up the FedRAMP ladder began with Tailored LI-SaaS status back in 2021. That early step focused on low-risk services, but the real goal was always Moderate authorization. After years of meticulous audits, documentation, and cloud hardening, WordPress VIP secured its Authority to Operate (ATO) at the Moderate level in April 2025. It’s now the only enterprise WordPress platform with that designation.
Sponsorship by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Every FedRAMP authorization needs a sponsor, and WordPress VIP found one in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA didn’t just lend its name; it partnered in assessments, reviewed controls, and tested the platform’s ability to handle sensitive information. That kind of backing sends a strong signal to other agencies: if it’s good enough for the VA, it’s ready for serious government work.
Meeting the NIST 800-53 Moderate Baseline
Behind the Moderate label lies a comprehensive checklist comprising over 300 security controls from the NIST 800-53 framework. WordPress VIP met every one of them. That includes strict access controls, encrypted data storage, incident response capabilities, regular vulnerability scanning, and system monitoring. It’s not just a matter of checking boxes; it’s about proving that the infrastructure can withstand scrutiny.
Inside WordPress VIP’s FedRAMP-Ready Infrastructure
What Security Looks Like at the Moderate Level
To meet Moderate standards, WordPress VIP’s cloud environment is tightly locked down. Every byte of data is encrypted in transit and at rest. Every login requires multi-factor authentication. Network activity is continuously monitored, and any anomaly triggers alerts. The platform is built not just to perform under pressure but to remain secure no matter what gets thrown at it.
Continuous Monitoring and Ongoing Compliance
FedRAMP isn’t a one-and-done milestone. Authorization demands constant vigilance. WordPress VIP submits monthly reports, undergoes annual assessments, and follows strict change-control protocols. Any updates—whether to infrastructure, plugins, or internal policies—go through a risk evaluation process to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Accessibility, Encryption, and Disaster Recovery
It’s not just about cyber threats. Accessibility and resilience matter too. WordPress VIP supports Section 508 compliance, ensuring sites remain accessible to all users. Disaster recovery is fully integrated, with redundancy, backups, and failover systems in place to keep services running even during outages or cyber incidents.
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Why This Matters for Federal Agencies
Simplifying Procurement and Security Reviews
With FedRAMP Moderate in place, WordPress VIP can be adopted by federal agencies without lengthy due diligence. The security assessment has already been done. That means procurement cycles shrink, risk assessments get shorter, and teams can move faster from RFP to launch with fewer headaches.
Aligning with Federal Policy and the FedRAMP Authorization Act
In 2023, the FedRAMP Authorization Act made compliance with FedRAMP a federal requirement. Agencies are now expected to prioritize FedRAMP-authorized platforms. Choosing a non-compliant solution can result in delays, rejections, or penalties. WordPress VIP’s listing in the official FedRAMP Marketplace eliminates that worry.
Opening the Door to Modern, Scalable Digital Services
Many agencies are still running on outdated, clunky CMS platforms. WordPress VIP offers an upgrade—modern publishing, flexible layouts, powerful integrations—all running in a secure, compliant environment. It brings agility to public sector teams without sacrificing oversight or protection.
Real-World Adoption in the Public Sector
The White House, NASA, and the VA
This isn’t theoretical. WordPress VIP already powers high-visibility government sites, including whitehouse.gov, select NASA pages, and several properties from the Department of Veterans Affairs. These aren’t soft use cases—they’re mission-critical, high-traffic, and security-sensitive.
What Agencies Are Doing with WordPress VIP
Across departments, WordPress VIP supports a range of applications, from public information hubs to internal documentation portals. Some agencies use it for campaign microsites, while others use it for complex content repositories. What they all get is a secure foundation and the freedom to publish without having to jump through endless hoops.
What Comes Next for WordPress VIP and Government
Maintaining Compliance in a Changing Regulatory Landscape
Regulations never sit still. Neither does WordPress VIP. The platform is committed to maintaining its Moderate authorization by continuously improving security protocols and aligning with evolving federal guidance. The foundation is strong, and it’s being actively reinforced.
Accelerating Digital Transformation in Government
Government websites are public-facing touchpoints, and expectations are rising. Citizens want responsive, accessible, trustworthy platforms. WordPress VIP delivers on all fronts, backed by the security guarantees agencies require. Beyond a standard upgrade, it serves as a strategic catalyst for transformation.
A Secure, Flexible Future for Government Web Platforms
For government agencies seeking to modernize their digital infrastructure while meeting stringent compliance requirements, WordPress VIP offers a secure and flexible foundation that supports both innovation and accountability. Designed to meet the unique demands of the public sector, the platform enables agencies to move beyond outdated systems and toward responsive, user-centred digital experiences. Success in this space also depends on trusted partners who understand the complexities of public sector transformation. Trew Knowledge is proud to be the first WordPress VIP Gold Agency Partner in Canada and a proven leader in enterprise-grade implementations. Our team delivers scalable, secure, and compliant digital platforms aligned with federal standards and long-term strategic goals. From planning through execution and support, we help organizations move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact us today.
