Source code escrow
Connect your code from any development platform
Depositing your source code should be effortless. With 50+ integrations, Codekeeper automates deposits, reduces manual work, and keeps your escrow current without disrupting your workflow
What is source code escrow?
Why source code protection matters
Unprotected source code puts delivery, trust, and reliability at risk for everyone involved.
Secure your source code with Codekeeper
How does source code escrow work?
Set up your agreement
You define the scope, update frequency, and release conditions as part of the escrow agreement.
Make your first secure deposit
Upload the required source code directly to Codekeeper’s encrypted platform.
Keep the code up to date
Regular deposits ensure the escrow always reflects the latest version of the codebase.
Recover the software
If an event occurs, the request is validated, and access to the secured materials is provided.
From software risk to resilience
Turning software uncertainty into reliable recovery
Cover your full software infrastructure
Want a clearer view of how software recovery works?
Protect your source code with certainty
- Secure, automated deposits
- Clear recovery process
- Trusted by teams handling mission-critical software
Good questions to ask first.
What is source code escrow?
Source code escrow is a risk management service that protects software vendors and their clients. Through a legal agreement, a neutral third party holds critical software assets in encrypted data facilities. This arrangement ensures customers can maintain their business-critical software if the vendor can't do so while protecting the vendor's intellectual property rights.
Who needs source code escrow and why?
Anyone who develops software or who relies on it needs source code escrow to protect their software. Development teams use source code escrow to meet procurement requirements and strengthen deals, while relying parties use it to ensure continuity if the depositor can’t maintain or support the software.
How does source code escrow work?
The depositor uploads source code and agreed materials to the escrow agent. The deposit is checked for completeness, securely stored, and protected throughout the agreement. If a validated release condition occurs, the escrow agent can authorize release as defined in the contract.
What is included in a source code escrow deposit?
A source code deposit contains the source code and any additional files specified in the agreement. It doesn’t necessarily include the full software package; broader components such as executables and build instructions fall under software escrow.
Are source code escrow deposits with Codekeeper secure?
Yes. Source code escrow deposits with Codekeeper are encrypted, access-controlled, and stored in ISO 27001-aligned environments. Materials are managed only through strict, contract-defined processes, with all actions limited, logged, and authorized under the agreement.
How much does source code escrow cost?
Costs vary based on verification level, number of assets, and support needs. Codekeeper’s Software Escrow plans, which include source code protection, start from $139 per month, with optional verification and continuity enhancements available.
Who pays for source code escrow?
Payment depends on the commercial arrangement. Sometimes the depositor funds escrow as part of delivering software or services; in other cases, the beneficiary pays as part of procurement or risk-management requirements. Some contracts share costs between both sides.
What is source code verification?
Source code verification confirms that deposited materials are complete and usable. Automated and manual checks validate repository structure, completeness, activity, dependencies, and overall integrity to ensure readiness for real-world recovery. Various Verification levels are available as add-ons with Codekeeper.
How do you get started with source code escrow?
Getting started is simple: choose a Codekeeper plan or book a demo, onboard as a depositor or beneficiary, and complete your first encrypted deposit through the platform. Codekeeper then keeps your escrow up to date with ongoing deposits and optional verification.