AWS Artifact
A tool for managing and verifying compliance and security posture across various regulatory standards and agreements in cloud environments.
| Category | Compliance & Governance |
|---|---|
| This page updated | a month ago |
| Pricing Details | Pricing details are available on the AWS website. |
| Target Audience | Organizations seeking to manage compliance and security posture in cloud environments. |
AWS Artifact addresses the significant challenge of managing and verifying compliance and security posture across various regulatory standards and agreements, particularly in complex cloud environments. This tool provides on-demand access to a wide range of compliance reports, certifications, and third-party attestations through a self-service portal within the AWS Management Console.
The technical architecture of AWS Artifact is designed for scalability and ease of use, allowing organizations to review, accept, and manage compliance agreements and reports efficiently. It integrates with AWS services, enabling customers to access auditor-issued reports, such as PCI DSS Attestation of Compliance (AOC) and Responsibility Summaries, as well as HIPAA-related Business Associate Addendums (BAAs).
Operationally, AWS Artifact streamlines the process of managing multiple accounts and agreements, reducing the administrative burden associated with compliance. However, it is crucial to note that while AWS Artifact simplifies access to compliance documents, it does not automate the compliance process itself. Users must still ensure that their specific workloads and configurations adhere to the relevant compliance standards.
From a technical standpoint, AWS Artifact supports a broad range of compliance programs, including PCI DSS, HIPAA, and others. It provides detailed reports and summaries that outline the responsibilities of both AWS and the customer, helping to clarify the shared responsibility model. For instance, the PCI DSS Compliance Package available through AWS Artifact includes the AOC and Responsibility Summary, which are essential for customers to understand their compliance obligations.
In terms of limitations, while AWS Artifact offers comprehensive visibility into compliance reports, it does not replace the need for ongoing monitoring and compliance checks. Organizations must still implement and maintain their own compliance frameworks and ensure that all in-scope services are configured correctly to meet the relevant standards. Additionally, managing multiple agreements and reports can become complex, especially in large, multi-account setups, which may require additional administrative resources to manage effectively.