DoD CIO - Cloud Computing

DON IT Conference Sessions Offered Via DCO

Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

The DON IT Conference, East Coast 2013 will not be held in Virginia Beach this year due to budget and travel restrictions. As a result, several sessions will be held virtually via Defense Connect Online (DCO). The AFCEA/USNI Joint Warfighting Conference scheduled for May 14-16, 2013, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center will still take place. Several senior DON and DoD leaders are scheduled to appear as speakers and panel participants. Local commands are encouraged to attend, with appropriate command approval, when no travel costs will be incurred.

Update 5/7/13: DCO session URLs have been updated.

In the Near Future, 'Cloud Computing' Will Just be 'Computing'

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Agency managers will assume that services are deployed in some type of cloud the emphasis will be on extracting value from data, CIOs say.

Secretary of the Navy's Site Now on Amazon Cloud

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Commercial approach was faster, cheaper than government-owned hosting, CIO says.

What is Cloud Computing?

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

You’ve heard the term and seen the ads on TV, but what does "cloud computing" mean, and why is the Department of the Navy talking about it?

Free Cloud Storage is Tempting, But is the Price Too High?

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

The services have obvious appeal to employees, but have a history of breaches. Pennsylvania's CISO, for one, steers agencies to in-house or enterprise storage services.

Cloud Computing Memo Signed

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT

On April 1, 2013, the Department of the Navy Chief Information Officer signed out the memo, "Department of the Navy Approach to Cloud Computing." The memo states that to increase efficiency and achieve necessary cost savings, the department is moving forward to employ capable cloud computing solutions that meet mission and security requirements and provide best value. Unless a more cost effective solution is identified, the first step will be moving DON systems that host publically releasable information to commercial cloud service providers who meet all requirements.

DON Approach to Cloud Computing

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT

This memo states that in order to increase efficiency without sacrificing operational effectiveness, organizations, system/application owners and program managers must expand their analyses of alternatives for hosting Department of the Navy systems and information to include Department of Defense and commercial cloud service providers.

Cloud Computing Hinders Data Deletion

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

In 1997 a hospital in an eastern province of Finland was embroiled in a data scandal. The hospital had sold some of its old computer equipment without thoroughly wiping the hard drives, and personal details of some 3,000 heart patients were leaked into the public domain.

Sources: Amazon and CIA Ink Cloud Deal

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

In a move sure to send ripples through the federal IT community, FCW has learned that the CIA has agreed to a cloud computing contract with electronic commerce giant Amazon, worth up to $600 million over 10 years.

Cloud Threats and Firewalls: Internet Guru Demystifies Cybersecurity

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Gil Shwed is an Israeli programmer and entrepreneur who is regarded as one of the fathers of modern Internet security.

Cloud Continues to Move Into the Mainstream

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Royal Dutch Shell plc, the largest company in the world by revenue, could afford to build all the data centers that it desires. But like many other major corporations, it has enthusiastically embraced cloud computing, which has been introduced at multiple layers of its information technology, from routine applications to the very core of the energy giant’s global IT infrastructure.

Navy Finds Billions Of Dollars In Under-The-Radar IT Expenses

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

More than a dozen years after the Department of the Navy awarded a contract to build what it has touted as the military's first true large-scale enterprise network, the Navy is discovering hundreds of networks and tens of thousands of applications that have been operating for years under the radar, outside the scope of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet and beyond the oversight of the maritime services' headquarters.

Moving Into The Cloud

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Many of us use 'cloud computing' every day without even realising it. Web-based e mail and social media sites such as Facebook and Spotify all use the technology to store data such as pictures, videos and text files. But what exactly is 'the cloud'? Even many people who have heard of the concept aren't always sure about what it involves.

Section 508 Compliance Doesn't Get Lost In The Cloud

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The move to cloud services and mobile access hasn't changed agencies' focus on ensuring access for people with disabilities.

Amazon Sets Up E-Notification For Cloud-Based Database Service

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Amazon Web Services offers to notify managers when key maintenance events occur in new cloud-based relational database system.

Fast Facts

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Fast Fact series provides pithy facts and news briefs about Department of the Navy IT initiatives, business transformation efforts and success stories.

Authentication With Cloud, BYOD: It's Complicated

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The growth of IT services across the enterprise makes identifying users complex, but three government efforts aim to standardize and simplify access control.

Converged Tech to Unify Branch Offices, Data Centers, Public Clouds

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Cisco and NetApp plan tighter integration within the FlexPod architecture to make it easier for agencies to deploy and access next-gen cloud infrastructures.

Navy Moves Forward on Business and Technology Improvements

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Terry Halvorsen has been the Department of the Navy CIO since November 2010. A member of the Senior Executive Service since July 2004, his prior position was deputy commander of Navy Cyber Forces and deputy commander of the Naval Network Warfare Command. He spoke to Defense Systems Editor-in-Chief Barry Rosenberg about business IT efficiency, cloud computing and enterprise e-mail.

DoD Information Technology Evolves Toward Cloud Computing

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department's information technology infrastructure is on a journey of consolidation, standardization, security and access, the Defense Department's principal deputy chief information officer told attendees at a cloud computing panel discussion today.

Oregon Rides Cloud To Statewide Records Management System

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The state is expanding a SaaS system using HP TRIM to give access to state, county and local agencies.

Navy CIO: $100 Million in Savings Realized

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Navy has cut $100 million from its information technology budget, the first steps in reducing its IT spend by $2 billion, department Chief Information Officer Terry Halvorsen said.

Mobile, Cloud Poised for Growth in 2013

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

IDC's market forecast identifies technologies that are gaining ground in government, and assesses the spending potential for the year.

Where Does Privacy Figure Into FTC Data Discussions?

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission is neglecting the privacy concerns connected to data collection and usage policies, especially in cloud-based systems, argues Paul Rosenzweig.

Data-Driven Government's Goal: Personalized Service

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Agencies need to create a tech strategy that supports convergence of cloud, big data, mobility and Web services, a Justice CTO says.

Interior to Give Employees Anywhere, Anytime, Any Device Access Via Cloud

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

DOI will move 72,000 employees to Google Apps by year's end as part of its effort to meet the needs of a dispersed workforce.

5 Tech Priorities For The New Administration

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Here are five technologies the new administration should keep on the presidential blotter.

How to Successfully Move Email to the Cloud

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

In preparing to move 25,000 e-mail users to the Microsoft Office 365 community cloud, the EPA focuses on planning and avoiding the common pitfalls.

Should You Trust Disaster Recovery to the Cloud?

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing offers an attractive alternative to in-house disaster recovery systems. Here's what you need to know before you commit to a vendor and begin transferring data.

Agency Data Centers Will Never be the Same

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Sweeping changes lie ahead, spurred by mobile networks, cloud services, smaller budgets and mandates to consolidate.

What Agencies Can Learn From Google's Data Center Secrets

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The search giant, which operates some of the world's largest data centers, reveals a unique approach to cooling and efficiency.

Budget Shortfalls Driving CIOs' Priorities

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department's move toward cloud computing is methodical and deliberate - pretty much as expected of most things the military does. But unlike many agencies, the main impetus is not to save money.

5 Cloud Business Benefits

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

One of the benefits of cloud computing is increased efficiency; services are rapidly deployed and ready for use in a matter of minutes versus the weeks or months it traditionally takes. But there is more to cloud computing than just getting your compute resources, storage capacity or application as a service within minutes.

Cloud Computing: Here We Go Again

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The same pattern has emerged again and again in the history of IT. New ideas emerge. Vendors develop their own approaches. Camps form to support those approaches. Eventually standards emerge. The battle over cloud computing standards and approaches is only the latest repetition of the pattern.

Intelligence Community Cloud Coming Online in Early 2013

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

A single, shared cloud computing environment that intelligence agencies believe will save money and let them better secure their data will begin to offer some of its first capabilities within the next several months, the nation's top intelligence official said Tuesday.

DoD Strives to Match Military Applications to Commercial Clouds

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

As the military reduces its number of data centers and consolidates data and applications, it is looking to move some of these functions to private commercial clouds.

One-Stop Cloud Marketplace Open for Feds

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

NJVC has unveiled a multi-cloud broker service for the federal government that will let agencies try, design and price an array of services from cloud providers before committing to large-scale migration.

Cloud Computing Leaves the Hype Behind

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing grows up as more agencies and contractors turn to a new model for IT solutions.

Government's 7 Top Challenges to Embracing the Cloud

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The Government Accountability Office recently released a report that assessed the progress seven agencies have made in implementing the Cloud First policy and came up with their seven top challenges.

How Cloud Technology can Simplify BYOD

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud services can help agencies manage the security and logistical concerns that arise when employees bring their own tech devices to work, writes Jim Lucier.

Navigating the 'Unholy' Matrimony of Mobile and Cloud

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Mobile computing and the cloud, which each have their own security concerns, have become inseparable.

Survey: People Fake Understanding the Cloud (Even on First Dates)

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Agencies are going to the cloud and practically everybody is using it. But understanding it is another matter.

NARA Gets OMB Directive: Oversee Revamping of Fed Records Management

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Records management framework will be based on cloud architecture, secure storage and analytical tools, according to an Office of Management and Budget directive.

GSA Schedules Twitter Chat for Cloud Broker Idea

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The General Services Administration takes another step to foster dialog on an idea for better cloud service provision.

IT Budget Facing 10 Percent Cut, Would Shrink to 8-Year Low

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Agencies should target six types of technology projects to account for the 10 percent cut to their budget the White House is calling for in fiscal 2014. These reductions would bring total spending on technology to the lowest levels in eight years.

Why Rebuilding Your Architecture From Scratch Could be the Best Bet

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing, virtualized IT, an information-consuming public and demands to do more with less are forcing agency IT shops to rethink their approach.

DoD CIO Sets Direction for Cloud That Partners Closely With Industry

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

DoD Deputy CIO Dave DeVries on the military cloud.

First Step to the Cloud – Virtualization – Can be a Doozy

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

For most agencies, server virtualization is a first step toward cloud computing. If you do it right, a move to the cloud is that much easier. However, if you make a mess of it, your journey to the cloud could be tougher.

Budgets, Security Mean Big Changes

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud, mobility and consolidation are growing in importance within the military information technology community and for its private-industry partners.

Emerging Tech Will Power Future of Government IT in Lean Times

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud and mobility are becoming increasingly important in helping government CIOs meet mission needs, GSA technology leader says.

Google Apps For Gov Saves How Much in Energy Costs?

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

By switching to Google Apps, GSA reduced server energy consumption by nearly 90 percent, a report states.

5 Ways The Public Cloud Can Go Wrong For DoD Agencies

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

As defense agencies embrace cloud computing, many are finding that cloud solutions deemed good enough for consumers can't handle their unique requirements.

A Secure Key Drive You Can Operate From The Cloud

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The Defender 2000 from Kanguru uses both in-device and cloud-based resources to keep data safe.

NIST Guide Explains Cloud in Plain Terms

Wed, 30 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The guidance gives general how-tos in five areas: management, data governance, security and reliability, virtual machines, and software and applications.

'Cloud First' Giving Way to 'Mobile First'

Tue, 08 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

"Mobile first" has become the war cry of Web developers -- and agencies -- who want to take a standardized, enterprise approach to the explosion of smart phones and tablets.

Are Your Apps Ready for the Public Cloud?

Fri, 04 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Many IT organizations are moving from a non-virtualized application base to one that is service - or cloud -based. Find out where your organization falls on this trend line.

Halvorsen: Acquisition Regulations Aren't the Problem

Thu, 03 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Regulations don't make information technology acquisition at the Department of Navy difficult, says DON Chief Information Officer Terry Halvorsen.

Agencies Could Save Twice as Much on Cloud, Survey Says

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Federal agencies have saved an average of $5.5 billion yearly by implementing cloud computing, a modest number next to the $12 billion in potential savings estimated by new research.

Enabling Business Transformation "On the Go"

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Increasing the ability to conduct business on the go, away from a traditional office or desktop environment, can be a key enabler of the Department of the Navy's business transformation process. Arming DON personnel with access to the department's knowledge base regardless of their location will improve effectiveness in any new or improved business process.

How Cloud Storage Could Catch Up With Big Data

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Erasure coding is emerging as a cost-effective way to safely maintain vast amounts of data in the cloud.

HP Expands Its Cloud For Government

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

HP Enterprise Cloud Services-Compute for U.S. Public Sector is designed to help agencies implement "cloud-first" strategies while providing economic, security and reliability benefits, HP officials said.

What Cloud Computing Needs to Take the Next Step

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Agencies and vendors need common definitions, performance metrics and security controls, say panelists at the FOSE 2012 conference.

How to Secure the Cloud

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing continues to be a hot topic for organizations, says Entrust's David Rockvam. What issues should be top-of-mind when using the cloud, and how can organizations ensure security?

Cloud-Bound Agencies Must do Their Homework on Security, Accountability

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Federal agencies stand to become more efficient by moving to a cloud-based model, but they need a plan for getting over institutional barriers, a panel of experts says.

5 Reasons You'll Have a Personal Cloud by 2014

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

With the spread of mobile devices and apps, the personal cloud will replace the personal computer at the center of users' digital lives, according to a report from Gartner.

Intelligence Analysis Benefits Big From Cloud Computing

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing could revolutionize the intelligence community's analysis abiliies, trade group concludes.

Cloud Case Studies: Agencies are Tackling Some Unique Challenges

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Agencies are making their case for the cloud, despite some unique challenges.

Microsoft Building a Government Community Cloud

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Microsoft is developing a multi-tenant, government community cloud to add to the variety of cloud offerings the company provides agencies and businesses.

Navy Says All IT Options Open

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dan DelGrosso is director of Naval Networks and Enterprise Services at the Office of the Department of the Navy CIO. He was recently named a 2012 recipient of Federal Computer Week’s Federal 100 Award. DelGrosso spoke to Defense Systems Editor-in-Chief Barry Rosenberg about IT efficiencies, cloud computing and enterprise services.

Agencies Must Set Rules Around Cloud Vendors' Access to Data, Report Says

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The federal government is behind many states and businesses in its adoption of cloud computing, but it is on track to be one of the largest purchasers of cloud storage and could have an outsized effect on what commerce looks like in the still developing industry.

VA Considers Moving Email, Office Software to the Cloud

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

A separate project will test Microsoft Office alternatives.

GSA Hands Agencies Cloud Security Marching Orders

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The guidelines provide more clarity on continuous monitoring requirements and the role of Homeland Security.

Negotiating Contracts for Cloud-Based Software

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The federal government's "cloud first" policy, as part of the Federal Chief Information Officer's "25 Point Implementation Plan to Reform Federal Information Technology Management," requires federal agencies to consider cloud computing before making new IT investments and to move at least three applications to the cloud by May 2012.

A Fast Lane to the Cloud

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 GMT

As cloud traffic grows, wide-area network optimization could help keep users happily cruising along.

Is Social Security Headed for the Cloud?

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The agency is looking for comments on how to improve its data storage infrastructure and a private cloud solution is in the mix.

Defense Bill Threatens Data Center, Enterprise Email Efforts

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The 2012 defense bill contains language that could block DoD-DISA partnerships in cloud and enterprise email.

5 Ways to Benefit from NIST's Cloud Road Map Now

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The National Institute of Standards and Technology's top cloud computing executive offers five steps agencies can take to benefit from the government's cloud tech road map.

Department of the Navy in Good Company in IT Efficiencies Way Ahead

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

As the quest for cost saving efficiencies rages on, three government officials spoke about the challenges their organizations are facing and their plans to tackle them at the Fifth Annual C5ISR Government and Industry Partnership Conference held Nov. 16, in Charleston, S.C.

How Open-Source Can Improve Cloud Security

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Using open-source software can let organizations draw on a wide range of expertise, which can come in handy after a cyberattack, a State Department official says.

NIST releases 'Bible of Cloud Implementation'

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Agency IT managers charged with deploying cloud computing will want to closely check the last two volumes of The U.S. Government Cloud Computing Technology Roadmap, according to some industry observers.

Federal CIO Says FedRAMP to be Mandatory

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Steve VanRoekel said that, if agencies use NIST guidelines, FedRAMP and monitoring when moving to the cloud, they can be a lot more secure than they are today.

NIST Goes Public With Cloud Computing Tech Road Map

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The National Institute of Standards and Technology's road map is designed to support secure adoption of cloud computing by federal agencies. Comments are due by Dec. 2.

Interior Wants to Take 88,000 E-mail Users to the Cloud

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The Interior Department is looking to take e-mail and collaboration services to the cloud, supporting 88,000 users across all DOI bureaus and office.

DISA Plans a New Step Toward DoD Cloud

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:00:00 GMT

DISA's new RFI aims to develop new framework, architecture and guidelines for a DoD-wide enterprise cloud - but the agency is also considering the hurdles ahead in its implementation.

At DHS, a 'True-Cloud' is Launched

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Homeland Security Department CIO Richard Spires works to make progress on four key areas of IT.

GSA Wins Race to the E-mail Cloud

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The General Services Administration migrated its increasingly mobile 17,000 e-mail users from an aging and outdated system to the secure, cloud-based and collaborative Google Apps for Government platform.

Military Ponders Private Cloud Services

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department's cautious approach to a private cloud seeks to maximize deployment, security and cost advantages.

Cloud Caveat: Responsibility Cannot be Outsourced

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing offers the promise of greater efficiency and flexibility, but adopters must ensure that existing security requirements are being met in a new environment.

Amazon's Cloud Services get Approval Under FISMA

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Amazon Web Services joins Google Apps for Government and Microsoft's Business Productivity Online Suite among cloud services that can say they’re certified under FISMA.

How to Make the Cloud a Data Cupboard

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Many factors go into choosing the right storage application and service provider to reap the benefits of storing data in the cloud.

DoD Targets new Security Approaches for the Cloud

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

DoD is finding that the old security techniques won’t be enough in the dynamic world of the cloud.

Amazon Unveils Cloud Tailored for Government Agencies

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Amazon Web Services has unveiled a cloud infrastructure designed for government agencies and contractors that want to move more sensitive workloads into the cloud.

Migration to Cloud Won't Happen Without Leadership

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

To make cloud computing work, leaders must address cultural and process biases, write Sterling Phillips, CEO of GTSI and a member of TechAmerica's cloud commission.

Message From the DON CIO: Changing the IT Business Model

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The Department of the Navy must change the way it manages its business information technology (IT) systems. It is the reality of these fiscally constrained times; and frankly, it is the right thing to do as good stewards of taxpayer money.

Done Right, a Virtualized Cloud Can Improve Your Security, DHS Official Says

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Security in virtualized cloud environments can be just as good as or better than in the physical world, if the right controls and technology are put in place, DHS' Greg Capella says.

Administration Accelerates Data Center Closings

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration plans to shut down 178 data centers in 2012.

How to Secure Data in Cloud? Stick With it Like Glue

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Data roaming the cloud has shifted the focus of security to the data itself, which must be protected wherever it goes.

Navy Embraces Cloud Computing

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Department of Navy forays into cloud computing appear to be gathering steam with the July 12 release of two requests for information, one for thin- or zero- client devices, the other for browser-based office and collaboration software.

Cloud Security Fears Outweigh Savings, But Perhaps Not For Long

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Economics is driving the move to cloud computing, and a recent survey by nCircle shows that customers expect service providers to address security.

In The Cloud, Security is Easy, Perfection is Impossible

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program requirements for authorizing the use of cloud services are expected soon, but security might be the simplest issue to solve in the federal adoption of cloud computing.

How to be a Cloud

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Embracing an internal cloud model for information technology service delivery will require most agency IT departments to change the way they do business.

NOAA Moving Email to Google's Cloud

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration plans to migrate 25,000 email users to a cloud-based unified messaging service by the end of the year.

Budget Crunch Hits Navy Info-Tech Programs

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The Navy's information technology enterprise will see budget cuts of up to 25 percent over the next five years. The reductions mostly will affect business systems, not the tactical networks that are used by deployed forces.

DARPA Seeks to Build Attack-Resistant Secure Cloud

Wed, 18 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The Mission-oriented Resilient Clouds initiative would help ensure military cloud infrastructure is secure and could withstand a harmful cyber attack.

Air Force To Build Intelligence Sharing Cloud

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Intelligent Software Solutions won a $49.9 million task order for a system to gather and share intelligence information across multiple military and federal sources.

Military Not Prepared For Agencywide Cloud Computing, CIO Says

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Defense Department CIO Teri Takai cautions against jumping into the cloud without the right organization or strategy.

Without Architecture, Cloud is a House of Cards

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Agencies moving applications to the cloud need sound architectures and service-oriented principles, government and industry experts say.

Next Step in The Cloud: Financial Systems

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

As agencies wrestle with large internal enterprise resource planning systems, more of them will look to get ERP via the cloud, Federal CIO Vivek Kundra says.

Need Data Fast in the Battlespace? Cloud has it Covered.

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing has revolutionized how the Federal Government stores and accesses data, but now the Army is taking it all the way to Afghanistan.

In New Cyber Battle, Info is the Goal, 'Stupid' is an Enemy

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Data and computing power have become so mobile that cybersecurity must focus on protecting information rather than infrastructure, government and industry officials say.

Where Web Access is Limited, Wireless Cloud Comes Into Play

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

A new system being developed by IBM in India will allow millions of job seekers without traditional web access to look for work via their cell phones.

In a Shutdown, Essential Services Could Have an Advantage in the Cloud

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Agencies using public cloud services might fare better than those depending on government data centers during a federal government shutdown –- at least for a while, industry observers said.

VA Considers Moving Email to the Cloud

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Affairs Department is looking for vendors to help with email, archive, backup and storage solutions in the cloud.

DARPA Looks to Boost Tactical Networks with Cloud

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency looks at battlefield cloud networking and mobile wireless nodes to push data down to individual soldiers.

Administration Releases Federal Cloud Strategy

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Stressing the federal government's commitment to the cloud, under a new strategy agencies will need to evaluate cloud computing options before making any new investments.

New NIST Guidance Tackles Public Cloud Security

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The National Institute of Standards and Technology issued two drafts on cloud computing, including the first set of guidelines for managing security and privacy in the cloud and another on cloud computing definitions. NIST issued new virtualization guidance, as well.

Desktop Virtualization Offers Benefits Now

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Desktop virtualization offers extraordinary payoffs that could cut total U.S. Defense Department information technology spending by up to 12 percent. Depending on legacy configurations, numerous approaches are available. The technology is mature; it is a path that already has been paved by thousands of commercial firms.

NATO, IBM Working to Show Merits of IT Integration in the Cloud

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Agencies could learn from NATO's test cloud.

NASA Lab: Cloud is Safe for Mission-Critical Data

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Officials in charge of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory have resolved concerns about the safety of putting mission-critical data on cloud-computing platforms.

Federal Government Moves Forward With 'Cloud-First' Plan for New Technology

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The General Services Administration's decision last week to move its email program to a web-based system modeled on Google's popular Gmail program is part of a major government drive to increase federal use of cloud computing.

Thinking Of A Private Cloud? Government Gets An Expanding Choice

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

IBM is ready to offer the Federal Community Cloud, a secure cloud environment designed for federal agencies. Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin unveiled the Starfire Mission Ready Cloud based on pre-integrated, pretested technology.

Apps.gov to Add Storage, Virtualization and Web Hosting Services

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Infrastructure-as-a-service offerings through GSA's cloud storefront will provide federal, state, local and tribal agencies with cloud storage, virtual machines and web hosting to support an ongoing expansion of cloud computing capabilities across government.

Overcoming Fear of the Cloud

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

For most organizations, the biggest barrier to cloud computing is fear: "Will my data be secure?" It's time to tackle that fear head-on.

Fed Data Center Efforts Move To Execution Phase

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Agencies should look to cloud computing and virtualization for quick gains, but overall success of data center consolidation will depend on execution, says effort's point man.

Military Makes Steady Progress on Cloud Conversion

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Although the Defense Department as a whole hasn't rushed headlong into the adoption of cloud technology and virtualization, there are some notable exceptions where the individual military services are gaining ground.

11 Ways to Boost Cloud Adoption in Government

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Brookings Institution analysis yields 11 recommendations for better and more widespread government use of cloud computing.

The Key Concepts of Cloud Computing

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

We are bombarded daily with ads about products, white papers, publications, seminars, workshops, market projections and more focused on cloud computing. But if you analyze these messages you reach the conclusion there are many ambiguities and only a few emerging concrete terms.

The March to the Cloud Reaches a Turning Point

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The move toward cloud computing will likely be a long one for agencies. But as of May 20, there's no doubt it is well underway.

Security for Cloud Computing

Tue, 18 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Achieving and maintaining information dominance will require continuous and timely advances in both technology and operational processes. Cloud computing is one such rapidly emerging area of technology and operations that the Department of the Navy is already planning for and beginning to pilot. To achieve information dominance, it is vital that all new technologies and processes, such as cloud computing, be thoroughly evaluated prior to adoption or transition to proactively assess and address the associated cybersecurity requirements, vulnerabilities and risks. This article provides a preliminary look at some of the cybersecurity aspects and concerns related to cloud computing.

Knowledge Management a Key Cog in Open Government Initiative

Tue, 04 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Knowledge management techniques are integral to supporting the government's Open Government initiative and managing the culture change that goes with it, panelists at the Cloud Computing Conference agreed.

GSA Readies Acquisition of Cloud Infrastructure Services

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

After a false start earlier this year, GSA is laying the final groundwork for a fast-track acquisition of cloud computing infrastructure services.

Federal Cloud Computing Just Got Easier

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Joint Authorization Board will relieve much of the pressure on agency IT managers in choosing technologies for cloud applications.

DoD Looks to the Clouds for Enterprise Computing Options

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Army's enterprise messaging and collaboration plan adds weight to military efforts to expand cloud computing efforts.

SPAWAR Technologist Evaluates Pros and Cons of Cloud

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

More sophisticated search capabilities and closer ties with industry are needed to secure private and public clouds, technologist says.

Microsoft to Open Government-Only Dedicated Cloud Facility

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

In his keynote speech at Microsoft's annual Public Sector CIO conference in Redmond, Wash., Ron Markezich, corporate vice president of Microsoft Online, announced the launch of a new dedicated cloud facility for U.S. government agencies and departments.

Feds Could Get Access to Advanced Cloud-Computing Technologies

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Microsoft and National Science Foundation team up to provide cloud-computing tools to certain users.

Governments Weigh the Pros and Cons of Private Clouds

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Cloud computing is a tough sell to governments because of privacy and security concerns. Private clouds could make the difference.

DHS Plots Its Cloud Computing Strategy

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A Department Of Homeland Security private cloud is expected to serve up SharePoint and enterprise e-mail before the end of fiscal 2010.

DOE Uses Cloud Computing for Science, CIO Says

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Energy Department CIO Tom Pyke today outlined some benefits from using cloud computing for scientific computations.

Has the Use of E-Mail Peaked?

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Historically, each generation expands the use of the communication inventions from the previous generation. Communication has evolved from cave drawings and carvings, to smoke signals and music (such as drumbeats, chants and yodeling); to written inscriptions; to letters distributed by foot, horseback, ships and railroad. Morse code revolutionized communication through the telegraph and line-of-sight light flashes.

Analysts Predict Feds Could Save Big Money with Cloud Computing

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Federal agencies could eventually save 85 percent of their yearly IT infrastructure budgets by moving operations to either a public, private or hybrid cloud, according to a study by Booz Allen Hamilton.

Adapting to Cloud Requires Agility, Flexibility

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Speakers from the Transportation Department, FedEx and Manpower Inc. offer insights about cloud implementations.

DISA Ramps Up Cloud-Computing Platform

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Information Systems Agency is boasting that its new cloud-computing platform can provide a NIPRnet-connected, production-ready virtual server within 72 hours.