Software escrow is a risk management strategy used in business and technology contracts to protect all parties involved when software is licensed. And, when it comes to software escrow, there are several providers promising security, continuity, and compliance.
But how do you determine who the best software escrow provider really is? For organisations that rely on business-critical software, particularly in regulated sectors like financial services, infrastructure, and insurance—the answer often comes down to more than just price.
At Escode, we believe our strength lies not only in what we offer, but in how we help our clients stay in control of their essential software. Here's why Escode is consistently chosen as the software escrow partner of choice.
A credible software escrow provider must go beyond simply “holding source code.” Businesses are looking for:
This is where Escode stands out.
While other software escrow companies offer solid services, many lack the depth, sector focus, or operational follow-through. For example:
1. We Give You the Legal Right and Practical Means to Keep Software Running
Escrow isn’t just about storage, it’s about continuity. Escode’s software escrow contracts give our clients the enforceable legal right to access source code, deployment documentation, and everything needed to bring critical software back online, whether hosted in the cloud or delivered on-premise.
2. Trusted by Regulated and Resilient Organisations
From high-stakes payments platforms to core banking systems, our clients trust Escode to help reduce third-party risk and support their business continuity planning. We align with frameworks like the ECB Guide on Outsourcing to Cloud Service Providers, DORA, SS1/21, and NIS2 to name a few.
3. Real-World Verification and Assurance
Our source code verification services go far beyond a software escrow agreement. Escode performs independent, auditable checks to confirm deposit completeness, build integrity, deployment process, and technical readiness. That’s how we help clients ensure that recovery is possible.
4. Fully Managed Escrow Administration
Escode manages the software escrow lifecycle from end to end. We liaise with software suppliers, track updates, automate deposit notifications, and manage all changes so you don’t have to chase or coordinate. Clients get a central dashboard and clear reporting, including audit trail and evidence of compliance.
5. Global-Grade Infrastructure, Personalised Expertise
We combine the scale and credentials of a global company (Escode is part of NCC Group) with the client service of a specialist provider. We have the largest global teams of legal, technical, and regulatory experts advise on contract clauses, work with software vendors and software licensees, and actively support stressed-exit situations when needed.
If your business relies on third-party software to operate, meet regulatory standards, or deliver customer value, Escode can help you gain legal assurance and practical readiness. Whether you're managing supplier risk, upgrading legacy systems, or building a compliant outsourcing framework, Escode is here to support you.
“Being proactive and placing security and resilience at the start of any development means that we can confidently explore ideas and push boundaries, safe in the knowledge that we are managing any risk associated with our software supply chain responsibly.”– Andy Ellis, Head of NatWest Ventures
“Technology and innovation is central to our success and transformation here at M&S. Working with niche and newly formed software vendors helps us to remain agile and retain a competitive advantage, so it is vital that we build in supply chain assurance from the outset and ensure we aren’t negatively impacted by circumstances outside of our control such as vendor downtime or failure”.
– Robert Barnes, CTO, M&S Tech
Book a short introductory call or download our Guide to Software Escrow to get started.
