Where is the agreement between the cloud customer and provider regarding responsibilities codified?

The agreement between the cloud customer and provider regarding responsibilities is codified in a contract. A contract is a formal legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of the relationship between the two parties, including security responsibilities, service level agreements, compliance with regulations, and other important stipulations relevant to the service being provided.

Contracts serve as the foundational document that clarifies expectations, liability, and obligations, ensuring both parties understand their roles and responsibilities within the cloud environment. This legal framework is essential for maintaining accountability and protecting the interests of both the cloud provider and the customer.

In contrast, the other choices refer to different concepts: RMF (Risk Management Framework) is a structured process for integrating security and risk management activities into the system development life cycle; BIA (Business Impact Analysis) assesses the effects of disruptions on business operations; and MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) typically outlines an agreement between parties, but it is usually less formal than a contract and may not have the same legal enforceability. Thus, a contract is the most appropriate mechanism for codifying the specific responsibilities of cloud customers and providers.