AWS GovCloud (US) vs. AWS Standard (US): Making the Choice
August 13, 2025 by Russell Gainford
In a recent episode of the Tyler Tech Podcast, I had a conversation with Gerard Gallant, leader – CJIS Program for Amazon Web Services (AWS). We discussed one of the topics that raises many questions for public sector technology leaders: making the choice between AWS GovCloud (US) and AWS Standard (US). What are the differences and benefits? Why select one over the other?
AWS operates its cloud through data centers located in separate regions that each contain multiple availability zones. In the United States, these regions are grouped into two partitions: AWS GovCloud (US) and AWS Standard (US). While they are both part of the AWS system, each serves different needs. Understanding how they are structured is key to making the right choice.
Security and Compliance: Understanding the Core Distinction
The most common misconception when comparing AWS GovCloud (US) and AWS Standard (US) is that AWS GovCloud (US) is more secure. As Gerard explained, AWS GovCloud (US) and AWS Standard (US) achieve the same level of security. They are built on separate regions, offering data, network, and machine isolation. Both implement the same AWS security standards and offer similar compliance certifications. The difference is that AWS GovCloud (US) includes additional compliance certifications — such as FedRAMP High — that certain agencies may require.
A major innovation AWS included in both AWS GovCloud (US) and AWS Standard (US) Regions is their AWS Nitro System, which improves both performance and security. Traditionally, cloud systems were run by a single piece of software (a hypervisor) that managed hardware, processing, storage, and networking. The AWS Nitro System breaks those functions apart. Each is assigned to specialized hardware and software components. It’s like having a team of specialists focused on each task rather than a single generalist trying to handle everything.
Crucially for government agencies, another result is that no AWS operator has the ability to interact with the data. Courts and justice agencies, for example, don’t need to conduct background checks on AWS staff — a relief from both a security and administration perspective. With the AWS Nitro System, both partitions meet strict compliance requirements, which is why AWS Standard (US) supports the needs of most public sector agencies.
Choosing Between AWS GovCloud (US) and AWS Standard (US)
While AWS GovCloud (US) does support FedRAMP High, ITAR, and other specialized compliance standards, most agencies don’t need them. Typical state, county, and local workloads — including ERP, public safety, and courts and justice — have compliance needs well supported in AWS Standard (US). It’s important to be specific about the objectives and thoroughly discuss what is required, as well as which cloud partition is best for each solution.
There are some tradeoffs to keep in mind. AWS GovCloud (US) does come with a higher cost, a cost that eventually has some level that is passed on to customers. Scaling can be limited in AWS GovCloud (US) due to a smaller pool of workloads. New cloud innovations may be delayed in reaching AWS GovCloud (US) because they must comply with a broader range of compliance requirements such as FedRAMP High
AWS GovCloud (US) is an excellent solution for those who truly need it, but AWS Standard (US) offers broader flexibility, faster innovation, and lower costs.
Partnering Through Education and Informed Decision-Making
Cloud capabilities have evolved — and with innovations like the AWS Nitro System, AWS Standard (US) now meets compliance needs that once required AWS GovCloud (US).
Conversations like the one I had with Gerard help clarify those changes. Public sector leaders need to understand cloud technologies — not just to make informed decisions, but to collaborate confidently with residents, leadership teams, and agency partners.
About the Author
Russell Gainford
Russell Gainford is the chief technology officer at Tyler Technologies, where he leads cloud development, operations, and deployment strategy. His work helps public sector agencies deliver secure, scalable services through modern cloud infrastructure.