The IPAWS Architecture is a system maintained by FEMA that will accept emergency alert and warning messages in CAP format from validated Alerting Authorities, ensure that the messages conform to the CAP v1.2 standard and IPAWS CAP Profile, and forward the messages to the all appropriate disseminators simultaneously. The disseminators in turn process the CAP alert message and deliver the appropriate message payload to the American people.

The validated Alerting Authorities can be Federal, State, territorial, tribal, or local officials designated within their level of government as an authority responsible for communicating emergency alerts and information to the public. After completing FEMA sponsored training, IPAWS recognized Alerting Authorities will be given a Collaborative Operations Group and access to the IPAWS capabilities.  IPAWS CAP alert messages will be generated and sent to an IPAWS CAP Alert Origination Tool, such as Framework or other compatible emergency and incident management tools.

The Alert Disseminators include: the Emergency Alert System (EAS), Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS), Internet Services, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and various state/local unique alerting systems. 

EAS provides alerts via the traditional broadcast means of radio (AM, FM, and Satellite) and television (digital and analog over the air, cable, and satellite).  CMAS provides alerts via participating cellular phones, pagers, and other commercial mobile network devices.  Likewise, Internet Services allow the American public to retrieve alert messages via independent web services and sites or applications that may be offered.  Internet services also allow for growth and integration with future consumer technologies accessible via internet connected devices.   NOAA provides alert information via the All Hazards Weather Radio system and other National Weather System alert and information services.  Individual state and local governments may also choose to integrate local alerting systems such as emergency telephone networks, sirens, and digital signs on roadways with IPAWS to receive and be activated by CAP alerts.