The temporary clearance lets Microsoft handle some ‘Secret’ level classified data – one level below the highest, ‘Top Secret’. Microsoft has six months from its award of the contract to obtain the authorization permanently, and nine months to reach Top Secret level. Undoubtedly, these require a multitude of security measures, infrastructure, and other assurances. “The Microsoft Azure IL6 offering provides classified processing capabilities up to the Secret level for DOD and Federal users,” DISA officials said in an email to the Washington Business Journal. “This represents a first for Microsoft in making their IaaS available to DOD communities for impact level 6 data.” AWS officials haven’t commented on Microsoft’s authorization, and it’s unlikely they will. The online shopper turned cloud giant received its certification back in 2013 when it won the CIA’s $600 million C2S contract. It’ll likely be a while until we hear the outcome of that complaint. In the meantime, the DoD has agreed to halt any work aside from initial preparations. Assumedly, granting such clearance falls under those activities.
