Keel's free GRC tier provides a complete, self-serve workspace for SOC 2 compliance without requiring a credit card or a sales call. It includes the core control library, evidence management, and policy templates needed to build a defensible audit program. This allows teams to start their compliance journey immediately and scale only when their needs grow.
The Core Control Library and Crosswalk
A free tier is only useful if it contains the actual requirements of the standard. Keel provides access to its crosswalked control library, which maps a single set of controls to multiple frameworks. For SOC 2, this means you can see exactly which controls satisfy the Trust Services Criteria. This architecture ensures that the work you do in the free tier is not wasted if you later add ISO 27001 or other standards.
Evidence Collection and Management
The most time-consuming part of SOC 2 is gathering and organizing evidence. The free tier includes the evidence management module, allowing you to upload artifacts, link them to specific controls, and track their expiration dates. This creates a living record of your security posture. By centralizing this data, you avoid the common pitfall of storing critical audit files in scattered email threads or local drives.
Policy Templates and Documentation
Writing security policies from scratch is a significant barrier for small teams. Keel includes a library of over 75 framework-mapped policy templates in its free plan. You can customize these templates to fit your specific environment and export them as branded PDFs. This ensures that your documentation meets professional standards from day one, providing a solid foundation for your auditor to review.
Vendor Risk and Access Reviews
SOC 2 requires you to manage the risks associated with third-party vendors and internal user access. The free tier includes modules for tracking vendor criticality and conducting access reviews. You can sync your user directory from providers like Microsoft Entra or Google Workspace to certify who has access to what. These features are essential for demonstrating that you have a systematic approach to managing both external and internal security risks.
Limitations of the Free Tier
While the free tier is robust, it is designed for initial setup and small-scale programs. It may have limits on the number of users, vendors, or evidence storage compared to paid plans. However, the key advantage is that the data structure remains consistent. If you outgrow the free tier, you can upgrade without migrating your data or rebuilding your control mappings. This seamless transition is a critical factor when evaluating the long-term value of a free GRC platform.
Key Takeaways
- Keel's free tier includes the full SOC 2 control library and crosswalk.
- Evidence management is available to track artifacts and expiration dates.
- Over 75 policy templates are included to help you document your controls.
- Vendor risk and access review modules are part of the free plan.
- No credit card or sales call is required to start using the platform.
- Upgrading from the free tier does not require data migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the free tier require a credit card?
No, Keel's free plan does not require a credit card to sign up. You can start building your SOC 2 program immediately without any financial commitment.
Can I use the free tier for ISO 27001 as well?
Yes, because Keel uses a crosswalked control library, the controls you implement for SOC 2 can also count toward ISO 27001 and other frameworks.
Is there a time limit on the free plan?
The free plan does not expire. You can use it for as long as your team needs to manage your compliance program.
How many users can I add on the free tier?
The free tier has specific seat limits, but it is designed to support small teams and founders who are just starting their compliance journey.
Do I need a consultant to use the free tier?
No, Keel is a self-serve platform. You can set up your controls, policies, and evidence without hiring a consultant or engaging a sales team.
What happens if I upgrade to a paid plan?
Your data, controls, and evidence remain in your workspace. You simply gain access to additional features and higher limits without any data migration.