Access check
Gathering and verifying information related to server and infrastructure access. (Can we log in?)
Solutions
SaaS Escrow
Always Access Your Web Applications and User Data even if the Provider Fails You.
Intro
Always Access Your Web Applications and User Data even if the Provider Fails You.
With Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and cloud computing, where the application and data are hosted by the SaaS provider, the focus is on uninterrupted use of your web application and secure, reliable access.
That is different from a traditional software-escrow arrangement, which centers on depositing, securely storing, verifying, updating, and ultimately delivering source code if needed. With SaaS Escrow, our priority is guaranteeing accessibility and uptime.
Escrow4All is innovative down to its core. Driven by the needs of end users, we developed our unique SaaS Escrow arrangement and set a new standard.
Read on to learn what makes it so special.
Collaborations
Hosting providers
Escrow4All partners with more than 75 hosting providers to execute comprehensive SaaS Escrow arrangements.
Continued
Why Source Code Escrow Alone Falls Short for SaaS
For SaaS applications, a source-code-only escrow doesn’t fully serve the end user. In theory, depositing source code could help rebuild an application, like a CRM or financial system—quickly. In practice, however, reconstructing a cloud-based service requires specialized know-how that is often lacking.
In short, the SaaS service model isn’t as universal as client-server or locally installed software. There’s no single SaaS Escrow formula that fits every scenario. We begin by understanding the nature of your service and then offer a modular, cohesive package tailored to your needs.
That takes into account:
– Legal right of use for the continuity service
– Potential source code storage
– An agreement with the hosting provider or colocation partner
By doing so, we guarantee that your service keeps running under any circumstance and when shit hits the fan, Escrow4All assumes the financial responsibility to keep things afloat.
Legal
SaaS Escrow Arrangement in Two Parts
1. SaaS Escrow Agreement
This contract is signed between Escrow4All and one or more clients. It clearly defines all parties’ agreements, rights, and obligations, forming the foundation of every escrow arrangement whether for a single client or hundreds of users.
2. Continuation of Hosting Services Agreement
This essential appendix to the SaaS Escrow Agreement is signed between Escrow4All and the hosting partner. The hosting partner commits to “keep running” under all circumstances especially if the SaaS provider fails to fulfill its obligations. It’s the legal guarantee that your service remains live.
Technical aspects
Securing Access
From a technical standpoint, it’s critical that, should a disaster occur, the components needed to maintain infrastructure and ensure access are fully secured. Our experienced verification consultants collect and thoroughly audit these elements. Below are a few examples:
Maintenance check
Gathering and verifying information related to ongoing maintenance.
Source code verifications
Verifying software according to an agreed-upon level and frequency. (What standards must the software meet?)
Process
Every client is unique, which is why we follow a time-tested, three-step process:
01
Analysis
A deep dive into your unique business case and requirements.
02
Advise
Recommendations based on our expertise and years of experience.
03
Execution
A secured, end-to-end technical and legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions for you.
Is your question not listed? Feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help.
With software escrow, the focus is on securely storing source code, updating it, and being able to release it. SaaS escrow is about something else: keeping the service up and running and safeguarding access to the application and data, even if the supplier fails.
There is no “one size fits all” for SaaS. That is why we work modularly:
- Safeguarding access (Access & Maintenance checks) so that in the event of calamities you can continue quickly.
- Continuation of hosting/cloud services: agreements with the hosting/cloud partner to keep operations running, with Escrow4All as the bridge for continuity.
- Optional source code/updates in deposit + verification, if that is required for your risk profile.
This is possible as soon as there is a demonstrable risk that you can no longer use the SaaS service or that your access is at risk. Think for example of situations in which:
- A major event takes place such as bankruptcy, cessation of activities, or the loss of the service provision.
- The application is unavailable for a longer period of time
- Essential cloud or hosting costs are not paid (on time), thereby putting continuity at risk;
In short: as soon as continuity is at risk, the arrangement can be activated in accordance with the agreements in the contract.
Absolutely. In addition to bankruptcy, there are other risks: acquisitions in which the service may be discontinued, strategic policy changes, cyber incidents, or geopolitical situations that block access. SaaS escrow helps in scenarios where you may lose access to critical business applications.
SaaS escrow is fundamentally aimed at ensuring that you can continue using the service if the supplier fails: with the right access and management information and, where appropriate, agreements that make continuity possible.
If, in addition, material in deposit has also been agreed (such as source code/updates), this can, once the release conditions have been met, be provided with a right of use solely for continuity purposes within your own business operations.
The costs depend on the type of SaaS escrow you choose, the desired service and control level, and the agreements needed to safeguard continuity (for example around hosting or cloud). Would you like a quick indication? Calculate your costs with our Escrowlator:
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