What is the typical sequence for preparing an RMF package?

• A. Determine boundary and categorize, select controls, implement controls, prepare SSP, conduct assessment, compile SAR, decide and issue ATO, plan for monitoring.
• B. Implement controls, prepare SSP, determine boundary and categorize, conduct assessment, select controls, plan for monitoring, compile SAR, decide and issue ATO.
• C. Determine boundary only, implement controls, compile SAR, prepare SSP, plan for monitoring.
• D. Determine boundary and categorize, implement controls, select controls, prepare SSP, conduct assessment, plan for monitoring, decide and issue ATO, compile SAR.

Answer: (A)

In RMF, the preparation package follows a practical flow from defining scope to ongoing risk management. Start by determining the system boundary and its security categorization, because knowing what the system includes and how critical it is to the organization sets the protection level and guides which controls are needed. Next, select the security controls that match that categorization, ensuring the controls chosen address the identified risks. After selecting them, implement the controls so they become part of the system’s operations. With controls in place, you document everything in the System Security Plan, describing the system, the controls, how they’re implemented, and roles and responsibilities. Once the controls are implemented and documented, you conduct the assessment to verify that the controls are effectively implemented and functioning as intended, and you compile the System Assessment Report with the findings. Based on the assessment results, an Authorizing Official decides whether to grant an Authorization to Operate. Finally, plan for ongoing monitoring to sustain and adjust the security posture as the system and environment evolve.