Which Are the Best Code Signing Certificate Providers in 2026?
The best code signing certificate providers in 2026 are DigiCert, Sectigo, SSL.com, GlobalSign, and Entrust. They offer Organization Validation (OV) certificates starting around $65/year and Extended Validation (EV) certificates from $249/year, with EV certificates providing immediate Microsoft SmartScreen trust.
Choosing the right provider directly impacts software reputation, user trust, malware warnings, and distribution success across Windows, macOS, and enterprise platforms.
Best EV & OV Code Signing Certificates Providers in 2026
- DigiCert Code Signing
- Sectigo Code Signing
- Comodo Code Signing
- SSL.com Code Signing
- Certum Code Signing
- GlobalSign Code Signing
- IdenTrust Code Signing
- SignPath Code Signing
- Keyfactor Code Signing
- Microsoft Azure Key Vault Code Signing
1. DigiCert Code Signing – #1 Choice for Enterprise Software Trust
DigiCert is the leading enterprise-grade code signing certificate provider in 2026, known for its unmatched global trust, strong root store presence, and strict validation standards. Its certificates are widely recognized by Windows, macOS, and major software platforms, making it a preferred choice for high-risk and high-visibility software. DigiCert is commonly used by large enterprises, regulated industries, and organizations that prioritize long-term trust and compliance.
DigiCert Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | OV and EV plans start at premium enterprise-level pricing |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Java, kernel-mode drivers |
| Strength | Highest global trust, strong root store presence, widespread enterprise adoption |
| Best For | Large enterprises, regulated industries, high-visibility software publishers |
| Customer Ratings |  |
Our Top Pick: DigiCert excels for enterprise organizations requiring immediate trust and seamless integration with existing development infrastructure. The premium pricing delivers exceptional reliability and Fortune 500-caliber support that justifies the investment for mission-critical software distribution.
2. Sectigo Code Signing – Best Value Choice for Developers & SMBs
Sectigo is a widely adopted code signing certificate provider in 2026, offering a balance of trust, compatibility, and cost-effectiveness. It supports both OV and EV code signing certificates and is trusted across major operating systems and development environments. Sectigo is often chosen by developers and small to mid-sized businesses looking for reliable signing without enterprise-level pricing.
Sectigo Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | Lower-cost OV and competitively priced EV options |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Java |
| Strength | Broad OS compatibility, strong market presence, competitive pricing |
| Best For | SMBs, independent developers, software vendors |
| Customer Ratings |  |
Best Value Choice: Sectigo stands out for independent developers and small software companies needing professional-grade certificates at accessible price points. The intuitive management interface and responsive support make certificate administration straightforward even for first-time users.
3. Comodo Code Signing – Affordable & Trusted Option for Software Signing
Comodo is a long-established code signing certificate brand in 2026, historically known for making code signing accessible to a wide range of developers and businesses. Its certificates are trusted across major operating systems and are commonly used for standard software distribution and internal applications. Comodo code signing is often associated with cost-effective solutions backed by widely recognized root trust.
Comodo Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | Competitive and budget-friendly pricing |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Java |
| Strength | Long-standing market presence, broad OS trust, affordable options |
| Best For | Small to mid-sized businesses, independent developers |
| Customer Ratings | |
Legacy Option: Comodo-branded certificates through authorized resellers provide access to established Sectigo infrastructure at competitive prices. The widespread reseller network creates price competition that benefits developers willing to compare multiple sources.
4. SSL.com Code Signing – Flexible Solution for Modern Development Teams
SSL.com is a modern code signing certificate provider in 2026, offering flexible issuance models and support for cloud-based signing workflows. It is trusted by major platforms and is well-suited for organizations adopting DevOps and cloud-native development practices. SSL.com is frequently selected by SaaS companies and teams seeking adaptable signing solutions.
SSL.com Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | Mid-range pricing |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Java |
| Strength | Cloud signing support, modern issuance options |
| Best For | DevOps teams and SaaS companies |
| Customer Ratings | |
Technical Excellence Pick: SSL.com delivers exceptional value for developers requiring kernel driver signing or multi-platform support. Their extensive documentation and hands-on support team help navigate complex signing scenarios that challenge less specialized providers.
5. Certum Code Signing – Cost-Effective Alternative with European Trust
Certum is a European-based code signing certificate provider in 2026, offering cost-effective OV and EV options with broad platform trust. Its certificates are recognized by major operating systems, making it a viable alternative to higher-priced global CAs. Certum is often chosen by European developers and organizations seeking regional trust and competitive pricing.
Certum Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | Budget-friendly pricing |
| Platforms | Windows, Java |
| Strength | Cost-effective EV options, EU compliance |
| Best For | European developers and SMBs |
| Customer Ratings | |
Budget Champion: Certum represents the most cost-effective option for developers prioritizing affordability without sacrificing essential functionality. The open source program makes professional code signing accessible to community projects operating on minimal budgets.
6. GlobalSign Code Signing – Strong Choice for Compliance-Focused Enterprises
GlobalSign is an enterprise-focused code signing provider in 2026, recognized for its strong compliance posture and integration with corporate PKI environments. Its certificates are trusted across major platforms and are commonly used by organizations with strict security and identity requirements. GlobalSign is especially relevant for regulated industries and enterprises managing large certificate lifecycles.
GlobalSign Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | Enterprise-level pricing |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Java |
| Strength | Strong enterprise PKI integration and compliance support |
| Best For | Large organizations and regulated industries |
| Customer Ratings | |
Automation Specialist Pick: GlobalSign’s cloud-first approach represents the future of EV code signing for teams prioritizing continuous delivery. The elimination of physical tokens while maintaining EV security standards addresses the primary friction point in automated signing workflows.
7. IdenTrust Code Signing – High-Assurance Choice for Regulated Industries
IdenTrust is a high-assurance code signing provider in 2026, specializing in identity verification and compliance-driven security solutions. Its certificates are trusted in environments that require strong authentication and regulatory alignment. IdenTrust is frequently used by government agencies, financial institutions, and regulated enterprises.
IdenTrust Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | OV, EV |
| Price | Enterprise pricing |
| Platforms | Enterprise software environments |
| Strength | Strong compliance and identity verification |
| Best For | Financial services and regulated industries |
| Customer Ratings | |
Compliance-Focused Choice: IdenTrust excels for organizations in regulated industries requiring detailed audit trails and compliance documentation. Their financial services heritage translates to certificate management processes that satisfy stringent regulatory requirements.
8. SignPath Code Signing – Best Choice for Secure CI/CD Code Signing
SignPath is a secure code signing platform in 2026 that focuses on automating and protecting the software supply chain. Rather than issuing certificates itself, it integrates with trusted CAs to manage signing within CI/CD pipelines. SignPath is commonly adopted by DevOps teams and enterprises prioritizing controlled and auditable signing workflows.
SignPath Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | Platform-based (external CA required) |
| Price | Subscription-based pricing |
| Platforms | CI/CD pipelines, enterprise environments |
| Strength | Secure, automated signing workflows |
| Best For | DevOps and enterprise CI/CD teams |
| Customer Ratings |  |
Modern DevOps Platform: SignPath represents purpose-built code signing for cloud-native development teams. The policy-based workflow system and managed infrastructure approach eliminate traditional certificate management overhead while enforcing security governance.
9. Keyfactor Code Signing – Enterprise Solution for Scalable Code Signing Management
Keyfactor provides enterprise-level code signing and machine identity management solutions in 2026. It is designed to help organizations manage certificates, keys, and signing processes at scale. Keyfactor is best suited for large enterprises that require centralized control and lifecycle management of code signing assets.
Keyfactor Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | Enterprise-managed signing |
| Price | Enterprise-only pricing |
| Platforms | Large-scale and hybrid environments |
| Strength | Centralized identity and certificate lifecycle control |
| Best For | Large enterprises with complex PKI needs |
| Customer Ratings | |
Enterprise Platform Selection: Keyfactor addresses organizations needing comprehensive certificate management beyond simple code signing. The unified platform approach makes sense for enterprises managing diverse certificate portfolios requiring centralized governance and compliance oversight.
10. Microsoft Azure Key Vault Code Signing – Best Cloud-Native Code Signing Option
Microsoft Azure Key Vault enables cloud-based code signing in 2026 by securely storing and using cryptographic keys within HSM-backed infrastructure. It integrates tightly with Azure services and supports modern development workflows. Azure Key Vault is commonly used by cloud-native teams building and signing applications within the Microsoft ecosystem.
Microsoft Azure Key Vault Code Signing – Key Details (2026)
| Attribute | Details |
| Certificate Types | Cloud-based signing (OV/EV via partner CAs) |
| Price | Usage-based Azure pricing |
| Platforms | Azure and Windows-focused environments |
| Strength | HSM-backed security and cloud-native integration |
| Best For | Cloud-native and Azure-based applications |
| Customer Ratings | |
Cloud-Native Azure Pick: Azure Key Vault makes most sense for organizations heavily invested in Microsoft Azure infrastructure. The tight integration with Azure DevOps, consumption-based pricing, and managed HSM infrastructure eliminate traditional certificate administration overhead for Azure-centric teams.
Compare Top Code Signing Certificates from Trusted Brands
| Features | Comodo Code Signing | Sectigo Code Signing | SSL.com Code Signing | DigiCert Code Signing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $219.45 | $219.45 | $64.50 | $409.02 |
| Certificate Authority | Comodo | Sectigo | SSL.com | DigiCert |
| Validation Type | Organization Validation | Organization Validation | Organization Validation | Organization Validation |
| Key Storage | USB token or HSM | USB token or HSM | USB token or HSM | USB token or HSM |
| Delivery Method | Vendor provided hardware token, existing HSM | Vendor provided hardware token, existing HSM | Vendor provided hardware token | Vendor provided hardware token, HSM, Cloud HSM |
| Issuance Time | 5 to 7 Days | 5 to 7 Days | 1 to 3 Days | 5 to 7 Days |
| Supported Key Type(s) | RSA, ECC | RSA, ECC | RSA | RSA, ECC |
| Supported Key Length(s) | 3072-bit or 4096-bit | 3072-bit or 4096-bit | 2048-bit, 3072-bit | 3072-bit or 4096-bit |
| Hash Algorithm | SHA-2, up to 256-bit | SHA-2, up to 256-bit | SHA-2, up to 256-bit | SHA-2, up to 256-bit |
| Software Signing | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Certificate Reissuance | Unlimited (excluding token) | Unlimited (excluding token) | Unlimited (excluding token) | Unlimited (excluding token) |
| Hardware Certification | FIPS-140-L2 | FIPS-140-L2 | FIPS-140-L2 | FIPS-140-L2 |
| Includes | Publisher identity verified; organization name | Publisher identity verified; organization name | Publisher identity verified; organization name | Publisher identity verified; organization name |
| TimeStamp | Compatible | Compatible | Compatible | Compatible |
| Instant Reputation w/ MS SmartScreen | No | No | No | No |
| Supported Platforms | Java, MS Office Document, Adobe Air, Microsoft Authenticode, MS VBA | MS Office Document, Java, Adobe Air, Microsoft Authenticode, MS VBA | Windows, Microsoft Authenticode | Java, MS Office Document, Adobe Air, Microsoft Authenticode, MS VBA |
| Refund Policy | 30 Days | 30 Days | 30 Days | 30 Days |
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.
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