FedRAMP requires cloud service providers to implement extensive audit logging based on NIST SP 800-53 controls, including AU-2 through AU-12 for event logging, analysis, and protection.
FedRAMP is the U.S. government program that standardizes security assessment and authorization for cloud products and services. Based on NIST SP 800-53, FedRAMP imposes rigorous audit logging requirements across three impact levels: Low, Moderate, and High. The audit and accountability (AU) control family is one of the most scrutinized areas during FedRAMP authorization. Cloud service providers must demonstrate comprehensive logging, log protection, and log analysis capabilities. FedRAMP authorization can take 6-18 months and is required for any cloud service used by federal agencies.
FedRAMP is based on NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5, which contains 20 audit and accountability (AU) controls
FedRAMP Moderate (the most common level) requires implementation of all 20 AU controls
The Joint Authorization Board (JAB) and agency authorizing officials review audit logging capabilities
FedRAMP Rev 5 transition deadline requires all CSPs to update controls by 2024
Retention period: Minimum 1 year online, 3 years total (per NIST SP 800-53 AU-11)
Identify events that the system is capable of logging in support of the audit function. Events include password changes, failed logon attempts, access control changes, administrative privilege usage, and system startup/shutdown.
How AuditKit helps: Configurable event capture with comprehensive audit event taxonomy
Audit records must contain the type of event, when the event occurred, where the event occurred, the source of the event, the outcome, and the identity of associated subjects.
How AuditKit helps: Structured event schemas capture all required fields with extensible metadata
Protect audit information and audit logging tools from unauthorized access, modification, and deletion. Implement cryptographic protections for audit integrity.
How AuditKit helps: SHA-256 hash chains and Merkle tree proofs provide cryptographic integrity protection
Review and analyze audit records for indications of inappropriate or unusual activity. Report findings to designated officials.
How AuditKit helps: React-based audit viewer with filtering, search, and export capabilities
Provide audit record generation capability for the events defined in AU-2 at all system components. Allow designated personnel to select which events require logging.
How AuditKit helps: SDK-level event generation with configurable event types per tenant
FedRAMP requires implementation of NIST SP 800-53 AU controls including AU-2 (Event Logging), AU-3 (Content of Audit Records), AU-6 (Review and Analysis), AU-9 (Protection of Audit Information), and AU-12 (Audit Record Generation). AuditKit addresses these controls with cryptographic hash chains, structured event schemas, SIEM streaming, and a built-in audit viewer.
AuditKit can be self-hosted within your FedRAMP boundary, giving you full control over data residency and network isolation. The SHA-256 hash chains and Merkle tree proofs directly satisfy AU-9 requirements for cryptographic protection of audit information.
CMMC requires defense contractors to implement audit logging controls derived from NIST SP 800-171, covering audit event creation, content, review, and protection.
SOX requires publicly traded companies to maintain audit trails for financial reporting systems, including logging of access to financial data, changes to financial records, and internal controls over financial reporting.
HIPAA requires covered entities and business associates to implement audit controls that record and examine activity in systems containing electronic protected health information (ePHI).
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