(ATO) - The official management decision issued by a DAA or PAA to authorize operation of an information system and to explicitly accept the residual risk to agency operations (including mission, functions, image, or reputation), agency assets, or individuals. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
(ATO) - The official management decision issued by a DAA or PAA to authorize operation of an information system and to explicitly accept the residual risk to agency operations (including mission, functions, image, or reputation), agency assets, or individuals. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Approval To Operate. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 13, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/approval-to-operate
Sources
01
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.