For companies entering regulated markets—defense, federal, finance, healthcare, critical infrastructure—FIPS 140-3 validation is non-negotiable. But for many product teams, the process feels overwhelming and disruptive to development timelines.
Corsec specializes in guiding clients through FIPS 140 validation, from assessment to certification. In a recent webinar, Corsec CEO Matthew Appler joined Peter Hesse, EVP at 10Pearls – a global product engineering partner that helps enterprises design, build, and modernize secure, scalable software solutions.
Together, we explore what it takes to architect validation-ready systems from the outset and how combining expert certification strategy with agile development support helps teams avoid costly rework and accelerate time-to-validation.
Why the Right Architecture Matters
FIPS 140 validation applies to the cryptographic sources within a product—not always the entire system. But many teams fail to isolate the cryptographic boundary in a way that is testable, flexible, and maintainable. This results in inefficient code rewrites or re-architecting late in the process.
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- Avoiding hardcoded or outdated algorithm implementations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 FIPS Assessments help identify gaps—and where partners like 10Pearls provide the development expertise to implement recommended changes quickly and effectively.
Embedding Validations into the Roadmap
Too often, teams treat validation as a final hurdle rather than an integral part of product strategy. But building with validation in mind reduces delays and creates long-term value.
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 Security
Performance concerns are one of the top reasons companies hesitate to pursue FIPS 140 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 technical pathways to validation, while 10Pearls ensures those pathways are built with efficiency and performance in mind.
CI/CD Pipelines Built for Validation
FIPS 140 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 help 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.
Why Corsec and 10Pearls Work Together
Navigating FIPS 140 validation is complex. It requires more than technical documentation—it demands architectural foresight, performance planning, and disciplined execution. That’s why Corsec partners with 10Pearls: to ensure that every gap identified in a FIPS Assessment can be resolved by a trusted and capable development team.
Corsec brings:
- Over 500 certifications completed
- Proven validation strategies for FIPS 140-2/FIPS 140-3, Common Criteria, CSfC, STIGs, DoDIN APL, and more
- Deep relationships with accredited labs and federal authorities
- End-to-end program oversight, from gap analysis to final validation
10Pearls brings:
- Engineering expertise to redesign and refactor systems for validation-readiness
- DevSecOps best practices for building, testing, and maintaining validated software
- Agile, scalable teams to support FIPS-driven development without sacrificing speed
Together, we simplify the path to certification—so your product is ready for high-assurance markets.
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Connect with us to streamline your validation journey. → Contact Us
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About Corsec Security, Inc.
For two decades Corsec has assisted companies through the IT security certification process for FIPS 140-2 / FIPS 140-3, Common Criteria (CC), CSfC, and the DoD’s requirements. We are a privately owned company focused on partnering with organizations worldwide to assist with the process of security certifications and validations. Our certification methodology helps open doors to new markets and increase revenue for clients with products ranging from mobile phones to satellites. Our broad knowledge safeguards against common pitfalls and thwarts delays, translating to a swift and seamless path to certification. Corsec has created the benchmark for providing business leaders with fast, flexible access to industry knowledge on security certifications and validations.
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Press Contact:
Jake Nelson
Corsec Director of Marketing
jnelson@corsec.com