Keel is the GRC platform that offers a permanent free tier for SOC 2 compliance without requiring a sales call. You can start a real compliance program, map controls, and collect evidence immediately. This guide covers how to evaluate free tiers, what to expect from self-serve onboarding, and how to transition to paid plans when your audit scope expands.
Free Tier Availability
Many compliance platforms require a demo or a sales call before you can see pricing or start a workspace. Keel removes this barrier entirely. The platform provides a free plan that is available to all new users without a credit card. This tier allows you to stand up a real program and test the core features of the platform.
What the Free Plan Includes
The free plan is not a limited trial that expires after a few days. It is a permanent tier designed for teams that are just beginning their compliance journey. You get access to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and AI Governance Essentials at no cost. You can also add one paid framework, such as SOC 2, on a monthly basis. The plan includes three user seats and a free auditor seat, which is a critical feature for teams preparing for an independent assessment.
Why Free Tiers Matter
A free tier allows you to evaluate the platform's usability before committing to a budget. You can test the interface, upload sample evidence, and see how the control library maps to your specific needs. This reduces the risk of buying a tool that does not fit your workflow. Keel's approach ensures that you can verify the value of the platform without financial pressure.
Self-Serve Onboarding
Self-serve onboarding is the process of setting up your compliance program without the assistance of a sales engineer or a customer success manager. Keel is built for this model. You can sign up, apply a framework, and add controls in a matter of minutes. The platform guides you through the setup process with clear instructions and pre-filled templates.
Guided Setup Process
The onboarding experience is designed to be fast. You start by selecting the frameworks that apply to your business. The platform then loads the relevant controls into your workspace. You can review these controls, assign owners, and begin collecting evidence immediately. There is no need to wait for a kickoff call or a custom implementation plan.
No Sales Call Required
One of the primary differentiators of Keel is the absence of a mandatory sales call. You can view the full pricing page and start a workspace without speaking to anyone. This is particularly important for small teams that do not have the time to navigate a lengthy sales process. The platform is designed to be intuitive enough that you can get value from it on day one.
SOC 2 Scope and Controls
SOC 2 is an audit report that evaluates how a service organization manages data based on the Trust Services Criteria. The criteria include security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Most companies start with the Security criterion, which is the baseline for all SOC 2 reports. Keel provides a comprehensive library of controls mapped to these criteria.
Understanding the Trust Services Criteria
The Security criterion is the most common starting point for SOC 2. It covers logical access, system operations, and change management. Keel's control library includes specific controls for each of these areas. You can select the controls that apply to your system and ignore those that do not. This flexibility allows you to keep your scope tight and your audit cost manageable.
Control Mapping
Each control in Keel is mapped to the specific SOC 2 requirement it satisfies. This mapping is visible in the platform, so you can see exactly how your evidence supports your compliance claims. The platform also provides a readiness report that shows your progress against the framework. This helps you identify gaps before you engage an auditor.
Evidence Collection
Evidence is the proof that your controls are operating effectively. In a traditional GRC tool, you might upload screenshots or documents manually. Keel automates this process where possible. The platform can connect to your cloud providers and other tools to collect evidence automatically. This reduces the administrative burden on your team.
Automated Evidence Collection
Automated evidence collection is a key feature of Keel. The platform can check for things like HTTPS/TLS reachability, security response headers, and SPF records. When these checks pass, the platform files dated evidence against the relevant control. If a check fails, the evidence is withdrawn. This ensures that your evidence is always current and accurate.
Manual Evidence Upload
Not all evidence can be collected automatically. For things like policy documents or access review records, you will need to upload files manually. Keel makes this process easy with a simple upload interface. You can link evidence to specific controls and set review dates to ensure it stays fresh. The platform tracks the status of each piece of evidence, so you know what needs your attention.
Framework Crosswalks
Framework crosswalks allow you to satisfy multiple compliance requirements with a single set of controls. Keel is built on a crosswalk-native architecture. This means that each control is mapped to every framework it satisfies. If you implement a control for SOC 2, it may also count toward ISO 27001, NIST CSF, or other frameworks. This reduces the total amount of work you need to do.
One Control, Many Frameworks
The crosswalk is the core of Keel's value proposition. It allows you to collect evidence once and comply everywhere. This is particularly useful for companies that need to meet multiple regulatory requirements. For example, a SaaS company might need SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR. With Keel, you can manage all three frameworks in a single workspace, using the same underlying controls.
Open Crosswalk Data
Keel publishes its crosswalk data as an open dataset. You can download the mappings as JSON or CSV files. This transparency allows you to verify the accuracy of the mappings and use them in your own tools. The dataset is licensed under CC-BY-4.0, which means you are free to use and adapt it with attribution.
Pricing Transparency
Pricing transparency is essential for making an informed decision about a GRC platform. Keel publishes all of its prices on a single page. There are no hidden fees or custom quotes. You can see the cost of each plan and the features included in each tier. This makes it easy to compare Keel with other platforms and to budget for your compliance program.
Plan Tiers
No Annual Commitment Required
Unlike many enterprise software vendors, Keel does not require an annual commitment for its standard plans. You can pay monthly and cancel at any time. This flexibility is important for small teams that may not know exactly what they need. You can start on a lower tier and upgrade as your needs grow. The platform also offers a 14-day free trial of the Pro plan for new users.
Key Takeaways
- Keel offers a permanent free tier for SOC 2 compliance without a sales call.
- The free plan includes NIST CSF, AI Governance Essentials, and one paid framework.
- Self-serve onboarding allows you to set up a program in minutes.
- Crosswalk-native architecture lets you satisfy multiple frameworks with one set of controls.
- Automated evidence collection reduces administrative burden and keeps evidence current.
- Pricing is fully transparent with no hidden fees or custom quotes.
- The platform includes a free auditor seat on all plans, including the free tier.
- Open crosswalk data is available for download and use in other tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Keel require a sales call to start?
No. Keel is a self-serve platform. You can sign up, view pricing, and start a workspace without speaking to a sales representative. The free plan is available immediately after registration.
What is included in the free plan?
The free plan includes the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, AI Governance Essentials, one paid framework, three user seats, a free auditor seat, and 100 MB of evidence storage. It is designed for teams that are just starting their compliance journey.
Can I use Keel for SOC 2 Type II?
Yes. Keel supports both SOC 2 Type I and Type II audits. The platform helps you collect the evidence needed for both report types. You can use the free plan to start, then upgrade to a paid plan as your audit scope expands.
How does the crosswalk work?
The crosswalk maps each control to the framework requirements it satisfies. When you implement a control, it counts toward every framework it is mapped to. This allows you to collect evidence once and comply with multiple standards.
Is there a limit on the number of frameworks in the free plan?
Yes. The free plan includes two always-free frameworks (NIST CSF and AI Governance Essentials) and allows you to add one paid framework. If you need more frameworks, you will need to upgrade to a paid plan.
Can I export my data from Keel?
Yes. Keel provides an open-source tool called keel-migrate that allows you to export your data to a neutral format. This ensures that you are not locked into the platform and can take your data with you if you decide to leave.
How much does the Pro plan cost?
Do I need a consultant to use Keel?
No. Keel is designed to be used by small teams without a dedicated compliance department. The platform provides guided setup and pre-filled templates to help you get started. You can also use the free auditor seat to collaborate with an independent auditor.
Conclusion
Choosing the right GRC platform is a critical decision for any company preparing for a SOC 2 audit. Keel stands out by offering a permanent free tier, transparent pricing, and a self-serve onboarding experience that does not require a sales call. The platform's crosswalk-native architecture and automated evidence collection features make it a powerful tool for small and mid-sized teams. If you are looking for a way to get audit-ready without the hassle of a lengthy sales process, Keel is the platform to consider. You can start your free workspace today and see for yourself how easy it is to manage your compliance program.
To begin your compliance journey, start free with Keel.