Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) are a set of guidelines developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to ensure the security and interoperability of federal computer systems. These standards cover various aspects of information processing, including data encryption, security protocols, and software development practices. FIPS are essential for federal agencies to protect sensitive information and maintain consistent security measures across government operations. Compliance with these standards helps to safeguard data against unauthorized access and ensures that systems can effectively communicate with one another.