Source code escrow is the deposit of the source code of software with a third-party escrow agent. Escrow is typically requested by a party licensing software (the licensee), to ensure maintenance of the software instead of abandonment or orphaning.
The objective of a source code escrow agreement is to provide comfort to the beneficiary that if the software developer is unable or unwilling to support the software, the source code and other critical components such as databases, deployment scripts, and documentation can be released to them.
The Escrow Holder: prepares escrow instructions. requests a preliminary title search to determine the present condition of title to the property. requests a beneficiary's statement if debt or obligation is to be taken over by the buyer. complies with lender's requirements, specified in the escrow agreement.
Definition: Source code is the language used by computer programmers to create a program. It is the non-machine language that humans can read and write. It is protected by trade-secret laws, copyright, and patent laws. If it is not included with the software sold to the public, it is kept secret.
A source code license agreement is an important document that can be used to protect the intellectual property of a business. It defines the terms and conditions under which someone else may use software or other intellectual property (IP).
The escrow agreement will provide the conditions under which you will receive a copy of the source code. The most common release conditions are (1) the software vendor ceases business or goes bankrupt and (2) the software vendor ceases to provide support and maintenance services.
Source code example printf("welcome to my page") ; }</em>This example shows a line of source code written using the computer programming language C. Many programmers use C or C++ when writing source code because it allows them to create simple lines of code that give basic instructions.
Necessity of escrow As a solution to this conflict of interest, source code escrow ensures that the licensee obtains access to the source code only when the maintenance of the software cannot otherwise be assured, as defined in contractually agreed-upon conditions.
A source code escrow agreement typically instructs the agent to release the source code to the licensee if and when a specified event occurs, such as the licensor becoming insolvent or defaulting on its maintenance obligations under the principal license agreement.