- Authority to Operate (ATO): ATO is a designation granted by a governing body or authority, typically within a government or regulatory agency, that signifies approval for an information system or application to operate within a specific environment. It indicates that the system has undergone rigorous assessment, meets predefined security requirements, and poses an acceptable level of risk to the organization’s operations and assets. ATO is commonly required for systems handling sensitive or classified information to ensure compliance with security standards and regulatory mandates.
- Certificate of Networthiness (CON): CON is a certification issued by the United States Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM) for software applications and systems intended for use on Army networks. It confirms that the software complies with Army requirements for security, interoperability, supportability, sustainability, and compatibility. CON serves as assurance that the application has been thoroughly evaluated and deemed suitable for deployment on Army networks without posing undue risk to network integrity or security.
Significance for Applications and Infrastructure
For applications and infrastructure, obtaining ATO or CON is crucial for several reasons:
- Security Assurance: ATO and CON signify that the application or system has undergone rigorous security testing and assessment, reducing the likelihood of vulnerabilities and security breaches.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many government agencies and organizations mandate ATO or CON as part of their compliance requirements to ensure that systems adhere to security standards and regulations.
- Interoperability and Compatibility: ATO and CON confirm that the application or system meets specified interoperability and compatibility requirements, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure and other software components.
- Risk Management: ATO and CON demonstrate that the organization has implemented effective risk management practices and controls to mitigate potential security risks associated with the application or infrastructure.
AMS Networks’ Assistance with ATO and CON
AMS Networks offers streamlined assessments and risk mitigation and management processes to assist organizations in obtaining ATO and CON for their applications and infrastructure:
- Comprehensive Assessments: We conduct thorough assessments of applications and infrastructure to identify security vulnerabilities, compliance gaps, and areas for improvement. Our assessments cover various aspects, including security controls, data protection mechanisms, and risk management practices.
- Tailored Remediation Plans: Based on assessment findings, we develop customized remediation plans to address identified vulnerabilities and compliance issues. Our experts prioritize remediation efforts to focus on critical areas and ensure timely resolution.
- Compliance Guidance: AMS Networks provides guidance and support to help organizations align with relevant security standards and regulatory requirements, including those mandated for obtaining ATO or CON. We assist in interpreting requirements, implementing necessary controls, and preparing documentation for certification.
- Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance: We offer ongoing monitoring and maintenance services to ensure that applications and infrastructure remain compliant and secure after obtaining ATO or CON. Our proactive approach helps organizations stay ahead of emerging threats and maintain compliance with evolving regulations.
- Documentation Support: AMS Networks assists organizations in preparing comprehensive documentation, including security plans, risk assessments, and compliance reports, required for ATO or CON certification. We ensure that documentation meets the standards and expectations of the certifying authorities.
Here are the official links to learn more about ATO and CON from the United States Army:
- Authority to Operate (ATO):
- Certificate of Networthiness (CON):
Partner with AMS Networks for ATO and CON Success
By partnering with AMS Networks, organizations can leverage our expertise and resources to streamline the process of obtaining ATO and CON for their applications and infrastructure. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve certification and enhance the security and compliance of your systems. With AMS Networks by your side, you can navigate the certification process with confidence and achieve your cybersecurity objectives efficiently.