Modernization

Senators propose extension of FITARA data center initiative

Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) introduced the Senate version of a bill to extend data center consolidation provisions that are due to expire in October 2018.

Acquisition

TBM 'years away' from full implementation

Top federal IT officials signaled that they are moving full steam ahead implementing the Technology Business Management framework, but caution that progress will take time.

Cybersecurity

After MGT, Hurd presses cyber national guard bill

Author of MGT Act says lack of permanent CIOs in government may limit effectiveness of IT modernization, sets sights on bolstering cyber workforce.

Modernization

What keeps govtech leaders up at night?

A joint survey by Grant Thornton and PSC found that IT stakeholders in government fear their own employees and outdated systems the most when it comes to cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity

Audit finds network vulnerabilities at NRC

While rating the IT security as "generally effective," an audit of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Region IV office found several lapses that could leave sensitive data exposed.

Modernization

DOD looks to get aggressive about cloud adoption

Defense leaders and Congress are looking to encourage more aggressive cloud policies and prod reluctant agencies to embrace experimentation and risk-taking.

Acquisition

IRS relies on obsolete hardware, IG finds

An inspector general audit found the IRS is losing ground when it comes to replacing outdated IT hardware, with budget constraints topping the list of reasons.

Cybersecurity

House Dem revives data breach bill after Equifax hack

Rep. Jim Langevin (D-R.I.) is hoping the massive Equifax breach will induce lawmakers to finally pass nationwide data breach notification standards.

Modernization

Trio of DARPA procurements plan for 'post-Moore's Law' world

The Pentagon's R&D shop is looking to solve the impending slowdown in global computing power by working with industry to develop the next generation of computer chip technologies.

Cybersecurity

DHS bans Kaspersky from federal systems

The Department of Homeland Security banned the Russian cybersecurity company Kaspersky Lab’s products from federal agencies in a new binding operational directive.

Modernization

Consolidating federal networks could lead to new security holes

Upgrading the federal government's networks is a bipartisan goal among policymakers in Washington, but some worry that a unified architecture presents risks of its own.

Cybersecurity

Tony Scott signs on with law and lobby firm

The former federal CIO will work on cybersecurity and policy for one of the top lobbying firms in Washington, D.C.

Modernization

Most agencies 'not planning' to meet OMB data center goals, GAO says

One year out from FITARA's expiration, GAO found the vast majority of agencies are not on track with the law's data center optimization requirements.

Cybersecurity

Yet another deadline: Congress faces 702 reauthorization

Amid a busy fall schedule, Congress must find time to reauthorize a key spying program, says the top Democrat on the House intelligence panel.

People

NBIB confirms 700,000 security clearance backlog

The National Background Investigations Bureau is trying to whittle down its massive security clearance backlog, while streamlining and updating its background investigation process.

Modernization

Modernization boosts cybersecurity anxieties, survey says

A survey of 200 federal IT leaders found that while most saw the eventual benefits of IT modernization, the process has resulted in a more challenging cybersecurity environment.

Acquisition

IRS dishes on IT procurement strategy

The deputy chief procurement officer at the IRS spoke about lessons learned during a pair of outreach events to the contracting community.

Acquisition

Why tracking data centers is so hard

The OMB numbers on data center consolidation highlights a recurring problem for the government: the lack of consistent, accurate information around data center ownership.

Digital Government

USDA app adds real-time updates on food recalls

The USDA announced a series of updates and new features to its FoodKeeper mobile app.

Cybersecurity

How the Air Force is tweaking procurement

A top military acquisition officer said the Air Force is changing its procurement process to meet the intent of Congress and adapt to 21st-century cybersecurity needs.