Basic Overview of Code Signing
Code signing certificates are used to digitally sign executables and scripts to confirm the software author and guarantee that the code has not been changed or corrupted since it was signed. The certificate verifies the identity of the publisher and provides a level of trust for the end-user. Code signing utilizes public key cryptography to validate the digital signature attached to the software. With the best code signing certificate providers, you can ensure the integrity and authenticity of your software and boost end-user trust.
There are different types of code signing certificates based on the level of validation: including basic, advanced, and extended validation. EV code signing certificate provides the highest level of trust and assurance about the publisher’s identity. Overall, properly signed code improves end-user confidence in software and complies with operating system requirements for driver and software installation.
Key Takeaways
- Code signing certificates authenticate the publisher’s identity and verify that the code has not been altered or corrupted since signing.
- Choosing the right code signing certificate provider is crucial for building end-user trust in your software.
- The top code signing providers include DigiCert, Sectigo, Comodo, Thawte, and SSL.com due to their reputation, warranties, customer support and range of code signing certificates.
- Factors like price, validation levels, compatibility, warranties, and customer support should be evaluated when comparing providers.
Why Choose Code Signing Certificates?
Here are some of the top reasons why code signing is important for software developers and publishers:
- Authenticates Identity: Confirms the identity of the software publisher or developer, which builds trust.
- Integrity Protection: Ensures code has not been altered or corrupted since it was signed.
- Malware Protection: Signed code is less likely to contain malware or viruses.
- Compliance: Meets requirements of OS vendors and industry standards.
- Smooth Installation: Enables seamless software installation without security warnings.
- Competitive Edge: Gives a credibility advantage over unsigned software.
- Legal Protection: Helps assert ownership of software for legal protection.
Choosing the best code signing certificate providers ensures that you’re getting a reliable, widely recognized certificate that offers these benefits effectively. As the digital landscape evolves, the importance of code signing certificates in maintaining software integrity and user trust only continues to grow.
5 Most Trusted Code Signing Certificates & Providers
Here are the top 5 code signing certificate providers highly regarded for their reputation, warranties, compatibility, and overall trustworthiness within the software ecosystem:
- SSL.com Code Signing Certificate
- DigiCert Code Signing Certificate
- Sectigo Code Signing Certificate
- Comodo Code Signing Certificate
- Thawte Code Signing Certificate
SSL.com Code Signing Certificate
SSL.com has emerged as a strong contender among the affordable code signing certificate providers, offering a blend of affordability and reliability. Their certificates provide robust security features and are recognized by major platforms and browsers. SSL.com stands out for its user-friendly approach, offering straightforward pricing and easy-to-use management tools. They provide both individual and organization validation certificates, catering to a wide range of needs. With competitive pricing and solid security features, SSL.com is an attractive option for developers looking for a balance between cost-effectiveness and trustworthiness in their code signing solutions.
SSL.com Code Signing Certificate Key Features
- Organization and Extended Validation code signing certificates.
- Whitelabel code signing portal for custom branding.
- Multi-platform compatibility for Microsoft Authenticode, Java, Adobe, etc.
- Code signing certificate manageability is available through the SSL.com dashboard.
- 24/7/365 live chat, email, and phone support assistance.
SSL.com focuses on providing easy-to-use and affordable code-signing certificates backed by strong customer service.
DigiCert Code Signing Certificate
DigiCert stands out as one of the best code signing certificate providers, known for its high-security standards and global recognition. Their certificates offer robust protection against tampering and help establish trust with end-users. DigiCert’s code signing solutions are compatible with a wide range of platforms and come with helpful features like timestamping services. They also provide excellent customer support and user-friendly management tools, making it easier for developers to integrate code signing into their workflows. With DigiCert, you’re investing in a certificate that’s widely trusted and respected in the industry.
DigiCert Code Signing Key Features
- Highly trusted Extended Validation (EV) and Organization Validation (OV) code signing options.
- Malware scanning and timestamping services are available for additional integrity checks.
- Fast issuance and flexible validity periods from 1-3 years.
- Broad compatibility with Microsoft Authenticode, Java, Adobe AIR, and other platforms.
- Dedicated customer support for certificate lifecycle management.
With solid PKI infrastructure and state-of-the-art data centers, DigiCert provides businesses with reliable high-assurance code signing certificates.
Sectigo Code Signing Certificate
Sectigo, formerly known as Comodo CA, is another top contender among the cheapest code signing certificate providers. They offer a range of certificates to suit different needs and budgets, including options for individual developers and large enterprises. Sectigo’s certificates are known for their strong encryption and broad compatibility. They also provide value-added features like malware scanning and code signing tools. With a reputation for reliability and competitive pricing, Sectigo is a popular choice for many developers looking for robust code signing solutions without breaking the bank.
Sectigo Code Signing Certificate Key Features
- Trusted Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) code signing certificates.
- Multi-platform compatibility, including Microsoft Authenticode and Java.
- Code signing certificate management portal for lifecycle control.
- Online 24/7 support resources and knowledge base.
Comodo Code Signing Certificate
Comodo, now operating independently from Sectigo, continues to be a trusted name in the world of code signing certificates. They offer affordable and reliable certificates that provide strong security and wide recognition. Comodo’s code signing certificates are compatible with various platforms and come with features like timestamping and easy-to-use signing tools. Their certificates help reduce security warnings and build user trust. With competitive pricing and a solid reputation, Comodo remains a go-to option for developers seeking dependable code signing solutions, especially those looking for cheap code signing certificates without compromising on quality.
Comodo Code Signing Certificate Key Features
- OV and EV Code Signing options available
- Eliminates Unknown Publisher Security Warnings message
- User-friendly management console for lifecycle control.
- Multi-platform compatibility for MS Authenticode, Java, Adobe, etc.
- Online 24/7/365 chat support and Wiki knowledge base.
Comodo code signing certificates give excellent validation levels for budget-friendly prices.
Thawte Code Signing Certificate
Thawte, a Digicert company, is renowned for its robust code signing certificates that offer high levels of security and global recognition. Their certificates are designed to work across multiple platforms, making them versatile for various development needs. Thawte’s code signing solutions come with features like timestamping services and are backed by strong customer support. They’re particularly favored by developers who prioritize brand reputation and need a certificate from a well-established provider. While not the cheapest option, Thawte’s certificates offer excellent value for those seeking top-tier security and trust features.
Thawet Code Signing Certificate Key Features
- High-assurance EV and OV code signing certificates.
- Built-in malware scanning for additional threat protection.
- Broad platform support, including Microsoft, Java, Apple, etc.
- ACES client certificate management system.
- 24/7 customer support via phone, chat, and email.
Thawte follows stringent auditing and security standards when issuing EV and OV code signing certificates.
Things to Know Before Choosing a Code Signing Certificate Provider
When comparing and selecting a code signing certificate provider, keep these key tips in mind:
- Validation Levels: Choose OV or EV level validation based on your identity proofing needs. EV provides the highest assurance.
- Compatibility: Ensure the certificate works across your required platforms like Microsoft Authenticode, Java, Apple, etc.
- Security Standards: Verify the provider adheres to industry best practices and data security controls.
- Lifespan: Choose certificate validity between 1-3 years based on your signing frequency.
- Pricing: Compare costs across providers based on your budget and validation level needs.
- Customer Support: Pick a provider with robust customer support channels to assist you.
Final Thoughts
Code signing certificates are essential for software publishers and developers to authenticate identity, maintain integrity, demonstrate security compliance, and gain end-user trust. The best code signing certificate providers offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Choosing the right code signing certificate provider is key, based on factors like validation levels, HSMs, pricing, compatibility, and customer support.
Leading providers like DigiCert, Sectigo, Comodo, Thawte, and SSL.com are considered the top code signing authorities thanks to their stringent identity vetting, robust PKI infrastructure, and trusted root certificates. By comparing providers across these key aspects, you can make the ideal choice for your code signing needs and boost confidence in your software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are code signing certificates important?
Code signing certificates are important for digitally signing software and scripts to authenticate the publisher, prove integrity, show security compliance, and improve end-user trust. Signed code gives publishers a credibility advantage.
What are the different types of code signing certificates?
The main types are Basic, Organization Validation (OV), and Extended Validation (EV). OV and EV provide robust identity verification, while EV offers the highest level of assurance.
What is an Extended Validation (EV) code signing certificate?
EV code signing certificates involve stringent verification steps to validate the legal identity of the organization. They provide the maximum trust and confidence about the publisher’s identity.
How can I choose the best code signing certificate provider?
When comparing providers, consider factors like compatibility, validation levels, warranties, security standards, pricing, and customer support to find the ideal one for your needs.
Which code signing certificate provider is the most trusted?
Leading providers like DigiCert, Sectigo, Comodo, Thawte, and SSL.com are among the most trusted code-signing authorities based on reputation, assurances, and root certificate status.
What is the cost of a code signing certificate?
Pricing varies by provider and validation level, usually from $250-$500/year for OV and $300-$700/year for EV code signing certificates. Shop for promotions.
How long does a code signing certificate last?
Code signing certificates usually last 1-3 years, depending on the provider. This lifespan allows publishers to sign code regularly before renewal is required.
Priya Mervana
Verified Web Security Experts
Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.
