FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standards)

FIPS, or Federal Information Processing Standards, are a set of publicly announced guidelines established by the U.S. government to ensure the security, consistency, and interoperability of computer systems and data. They specify technical standards for things like encryption, data management, and security protocols used by government agencies and organizations working with federal data. Think of FIPS as a common language and safety framework that helps different computer systems communicate securely and reliably, reducing risks and maintaining the integrity of sensitive information.