These days an increasing number of businesses count the software they use on a daily basis as their lifeblood. Not only IT companies but those operating in just about any industry use unique pieces of software to take care of just about everything, from payroll to marketing. The security of this software as well as a company’s presence online is something to which businesses devote a great deal of thought.
Here, we look into a number of long term security solutions regarding technology.
Software escrow
For those companies that survive due to a custom or unique piece of software, it can be fatal for that software to be discontinued. With constantly evolving threats and challenges, a team of developers need to be on hand to keep software alive. When the original development team are unable to fulfil this role, companies are left in the lurch.
The only way for firms to secure the software that they use into the future is to seek a Software Escrow. What this does is send the source code to a third party with whom it can be stored. The third party will have the ability to release the source code in the event that its developers cease to maintain the program. This allows businesses to continue using key software.
Hardware escrow
Working on a similar notion to that of the software escrow described above, a hardware escrow can be a lifeline for businesses or individuals who rely heavily upon a certain piece of hardware. This might be a specific chip or more general system architecture.
With Hardware Escrow it is possible to receive full details of the hardware in question, down to technical drawings and testing processes. This makes it possible to build replacements or carry out repairs in the event that the original manufacturers cease to do business.
Technology escrow
It is possible to obtain a more general technology escrow which is able to protect the integrity of sensitive information which ranges from product designs to marketing campaigns. This is particularly important for innovative businesses, allowing them to interact on a professional level without the worry of losing their invention.
Each of these tools is a great example of the ability of a third party to mediate between businesses. The opportunity for businesses to seek a Technology Escrow is the ultimate in long term security solutions. It is this sort of forward thinking which makes the difference between the businesses which succeed and those which do not.