Software Escrow

Software is a critical factor in many business processes. But what happens if your software supplier goes bankrupt, discontinues support, or no longer provides access to the source code?
With Software Escrow, we ensure continuity and security, so your company is never dependent on external factors.

The risks of software dependency

Companies using custom software or critical applications face serious risks when they are fully dependent on a single supplier. Without access to the source code, organizations may be left stranded in the event of malfunctions or when further development is needed. This creates both operational and strategic risks.

Security and future-proofing

Organizations want to maintain control over their software environment—especially when it is business-critical. Software Escrow offers a solution by storing source code, documentation, and dependencies in a secure environment, with guaranteed access in the event of emergencies. In such cases, we—through APPelit—can also act as the executing software party to immediately take over management and ensure software continuity.

Tailored Software Escrow

We offer a reliable and flexible Software Escrow service in which source code, dependencies, and essential software assets are professionally managed. This includes:

Secure storage of source code, technical documentation, and deployment instructions
Periodic verification of the code and functionality (optional)
Contractual guarantees for access upon predefined triggers
The possibility of direct takeover, recovery, or further development by our own development team (APPelit)

Secure Source Code Repositories

Source code is encrypted and stored in a secure environment, accessible only under predefined conditions.

Escrow for SaaS, On-Premise, and Custom Software

We provide escrow agreements for various software models, including SaaS solutions, on-premise applications, and custom-built software.

Compliance and Regulations

Our escrow services comply with legal and industry standards, including ISO 27001 and other relevant security frameworks.

Source Code Inspection and Validation

Periodic verification ensures that the escrowed source code remains up-to-date and usable in case of emergency.

Legally Robust Agreements

We offer flexible escrow contracts that are legally aligned with the interests of both software users and vendors.

Emergency Access Protocols

Clear conditions and procedures ensure you gain access to software assets during business-critical events such as bankruptcy or breach of contract.

Why choose our Software Escrow services?

Continuity guaranteed: No dependency on a single supplier.
Secure storage: Source code and documentation are safely managed.
Full transparency: Clear escrow agreements with well-defined conditions.
Legal assurance: Protection for both clients and software vendors.
Support with risk analysis: Assistance in creating tailored escrow strategies.

With our Software Escrow solutions, you protect your business against the risks of software dependency. By proactively securing access to your software assets, you avoid business continuity issues and remain operational—no matter the circumstances.

Does your organization need a tailored escrow solution?
We're happy to help.

Practical Examples

Protecting source code for a fintech company

A fintech company developed a custom payment platform used by multiple banks. Since the software vendor was responsible for updates and maintenance, the banks wanted assurance that they would gain access to the source code in case the vendor went bankrupt.

Through a Software Escrow agreement, the source code was securely stored and made accessible under contractual conditions, ensuring both continuity and compliance.

Escrow arrangement for a SaaS company

A mid-sized SaaS provider delivered ERP software to manufacturing companies. Clients were concerned about their dependency on the software vendor. Through an escrow agreement, customers were assured that—should the vendor unexpectedly fail or cease operations—they would have access to the source code and documentation, enabling them to independently manage the software or transfer it to another party.

FAQ

1. What is Software Escrow?

Software Escrow is an agreement in which source code and documentation are securely stored and released under specific conditions—such as in the event of the software vendor's bankruptcy.

2. Why would my company need an escrow agreement?

If your company relies on software from an external supplier, an escrow arrangement offers peace of mind by ensuring continuity of your software—even if the vendor can no longer provide support.

3. What exactly is stored under a Software Escrow agreement?

In addition to the source code, items such as documentation, installation manuals, configuration files, and other critical software components can be included.

4. How do I know if the escrowed source code is usable?

We offer optional verification services where the source code is periodically reviewed and tested to ensure it is up-to-date and deployable.

5. Is Software Escrow only relevant for large companies?

No, escrow is relevant for both small and large businesses that depend on software vendors and seek assurance about the continuity of their software.

Want to ensure the continuity of your software?