Architecting a Smarter Path to FIPS
140-3 Validation
By 10Pearls editorial team
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FIPS 140-3 validation is critical for US and Canadian federal contractors, agencies, and businesses who leverage cryptography to protect sensitive data. For other businesses, it’s one of the strongest endorsements for data security posture.
Validating cryptographic modules for FIPS 140-3 is one of the primary services Corsec Security provides to a wide range of organizations. Corsec’s CEO, Matthew Appler, recently joined 10Pearls’ EVP, Peter Hesse, for a webinar on the topic of FIPS 140-3 validation.
The two discussed the importance and benefits of developing validation-ready systems instead of retrofitting existing systems for validation and how combining certification consulting with agile development can be a powerful and rapid approach to validation-ready systems.
Why the right architecture matters
FIPS 140-3 validation applies to the cryptographic modules within a system—not the whole thing. However, many organizations find it difficult to isolate the cryptographic boundaries of these modules from the system so that it’s independently testable, modifiable, and maintainable. This results in inefficient code rewrites and design changes that may disrupt the system.
Key architectural considerations include:
- Centralizing cryptographic functions
- Ensuring testability of algorithms and key modules
- Avoiding hardcoded or outdated algorithm implementations
- Planning for algorithm evolution, such as post-quantum cryptography
This is where Corsec’s early-stage assessments help identify gaps—and where partners like 10Pearls provide the development expertise to implement recommended changes quickly and effectively.
Embedding validation into the roadmap
Ideally, systems should be designed with validation in mind and not retrofitted to meet regulatory requirements later. It enhances their long-term stability and value and eliminates the need for cryptographic overhauls.
Corsec provides clear guidance on requirements strategy, cryptographic boundary definition, and documentation, while 10Pearls implements system-level changes to align architecture with validation goals. Together, we enable clients to move forward confidently without derailing innovation.
“You don’t have to stop building features—you just need a smarter, more modular strategy that supports both compliance and agility.”
Peter Hesse
Managing performance without compromising compliance
Performance issues are one of the primary concerns of organizations delaying FIPS 140-3 validation. Startup tests, memory constraints, and algorithm overhead can introduce friction—especially in lightweight or resource-constrained environments.
Effective strategies include:
- Using FIPS mode toggles to balance runtime needs
- Validating subcomponents, not entire systems
- Benchmarking early and often across FIPS-compatible environments
- Leveraging validated cryptographic libraries
Corsec helps clients identify the best regulatory and technical pathways to validation, and 10Pearls ensures that those pathways are optimized for performance efficiency.
CI/CD pipelines built for compliance
FIPS 140-3 doesn’t have to slow down your release cycles—if your CI/CD workflows are structured to support it. Separating feature delivery from validation-focused release tracks helps prevent unnecessary rework and keeps product updates moving.
Locking validated modules to specific versions and automating dependency checks ensures changes to the cryptographic boundary are identified early. With the right structure, teams can maintain validation while continuing to deliver at speed.
Validation vs. compliance—and why the distinction matters
As Matthew Appler explained, the term “FIPS compliant” is often misunderstood. True FIPS 140 validation involves strict documentation, third-party lab testing, and a formal government review process. Corsec guides clients through that process and helps to decode vague customer requirements and select the most efficient and effective path to validation.
10Pearls complements this by supporting the necessary engineering adjustments—so compliance aspirations turn into validation outcomes.
Corsec & 10Pearls – A strategic partnership
FIPS 140-3 validation can be demanding and highly complex, especially if the encryption modules weren’t strategically designed. This validation goes beyond a technical audit and requires a deep understanding of digital infrastructure. This is where 10Pearls comes in – an experienced technology partner with extensive experience in digital architecture and modernization. This partnership allows Corsec to offer not just gap analysis but the technical capabilities to address them.
Corsec brings:
- 500+ completed certificates
- Over one million certification consulting hours
- Time-tested strategies for taking organizations from evaluation to validation
- Strong relationships with accredited labs and federal agencies
10Pearls brings:
- Technical capabilities to modernize encryption modules as per validation requirements
- Cybersecurity expertise and DevSecOps experience
- A compliance and security-first approach to development and modernization
Together, Corsec and 10Pearls can help you identify and navigate the best path to FIPS 140-3 validation. Let’s discuss how we can help your organization with this certification.
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