Understanding Different Types of Software Audits: Internal vs. External

Software audits are essential for managing compliance, security, and efficiency in any organization’s software ecosystem. But not all audits are created equal—knowing the difference between internal and external audits can make a world of difference in how you prepare and respond.

Internal Audits

Internal audits are typically conducted by your in-house team or a hired third party with a focus on proactive compliance and cost management. The primary goals are to ensure your licenses are in order, identify unused or redundant software, and assess internal processes for software asset management. Think of internal audits as a "health check" to keep things running smoothly before any external review.

Benefits: 

- Catch issues before they become compliance risks 

- Optimize software costs by identifying unused assets 

- Build a culture of accountability around software use