Bringing Claude Code and Claude Cowork to government
Summary
Anthropic has launched Claude Code and Claude Cowork in public beta for Claude for Government Desktop, delivered via a FedRAMP High authorized environment. Claude Code enables public sector teams to build and modernize software systems, while Claude Cowork assists agency staff with tasks like memo creation, RFP reviews, and casework by interacting directly with desktop files. This expanded offering includes robust governance features, allowing administrators to set configuration defaults, allocate and control spending across departments, and access tamper-evident audit logs for ATO process support. The platform provides flexible billing options tied to appropriated funds, department-level administration for seat and usage allocation, and enhanced oversight through hash-chained audit logs and two-person approval for sensitive operations. A FedRAMP Secure Configuration Guide and penetration-test summary are also available for security teams.
Key takeaway
For government IT Professionals or AI Security Engineers evaluating new AI tools, Claude Code and Claude Cowork's availability in a FedRAMP High authorized environment significantly simplifies acquisition and authorization. You should review the published FedRAMP Secure Configuration Guide and penetration-test summary to ensure secure deployment within your agency's MDM platforms. Utilize the granular administrative controls and audit logs to manage departmental spending and maintain compliance with ATO processes.
Key insights
Claude Code and Cowork offer secure, governed AI tools for government, leveraging FedRAMP High authorization.
Principles
- Government AI deployments require FedRAMP High authorization.
- Granular billing and administrative controls are crucial for public sector AI adoption.
- Tamper-evident audit logs enhance AI system oversight and compliance.
In practice
- Deploy Claude Code for public sector software modernization.
- Utilize Claude Cowork for automating agency administrative tasks.
- Configure department-level spending and model limits via SCIM group mappings.
Topics
- Claude Code
- Claude Cowork
- FedRAMP High
- Government AI
- AI Governance
- Audit Logs
Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Executive, Director of AI/ML, IT Professional, AI Security Engineer
Related on AIssential
Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Claude Blog.