A software and/or hardware product that is developed by the technical staff of a Government organization for use by the U.S. Government. GOTS software and hardware may be developed by an external entity, with specification from the Government organization to meet a specific Government purpose, and can normally be shared among Federal agencies without additional cost. GOTS products and systems are not commercially available to the general public. Sales and distribution of GOTS products and systems are controlled by the Government. Source: NSA/CSS Policy 3-14
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
A software and/or hardware product that is developed by the technical staff of a Government organization for use by the U.S. Government. GOTS software and hardware may be developed by an external entity, with specification from the Government organization to meet a specific Government purpose, and can normally be shared among Federal agencies without additional cost. GOTS products and systems are not commercially available to the general public. Sales and distribution of GOTS products and systems are controlled by the Government. Source: NSA/CSS Policy 3-14
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Government Off The Shelf (gots). In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 13, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/government-off-the-shelf-gots
Sources
01
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.