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EV Code Signing Certificate

When it comes to ensuring the security and integrity of software, EV Code Signing Certificates stand at the forefront. These certificates are vital for developers and organizations aiming to establish trust with users by verifying the legitimacy of their code. In this extensive exploration, we’ll dive deep into what an EV Code Signing Certificate is, its importance, and how it operates to protect both software providers and users.

What is an EV Code Signing Certificate?

Code Signing Certificate

An EV (Extended Validation) Code Signing Certificate is a digital certificate used to digitally sign software applications, executables, scripts, and other code. It provides the highest level of identity verification and trust for software publishers.

EV Code Signing Certificates clearly display the legal identity of the software publisher and undergo rigorous validation by the certificate authority. They provide a visual trust indicator and help ensure software is legitimate and safe to install.

How EV Code Signing Certificates Work

An EV Code Signing Certificate contains a public and private cryptographic key pair along with information about the identity of the software publisher.

When code is digitally signed, it is hashed and encrypted with the private key. This produces a unique digital signature that is bundled with the code.

On the user’s computer, the public key from the certificate is used to decrypt the hash and verify the integrity of the code and the identity of the publisher. The digital signature provides tamper evidence and non-repudiation.

If the code has been modified after signing, the signature won’t match the new hash, indicating the code may have been compromised. The user can then decide not to install or run the application.

How EV Code Signing Works

EV Code Signing Works

How EV Code Signing Verifies the Code

How EV Code Signing Verifies

Key Features of EV Code Signing Certificates

Identity Validation

EV Code Signing Certificates require extensive organizational vetting and identity verification by the certificate authority. This includes legal, operational, and physical existence validation.

The vetting process typically requires submission of articles of incorporation, business licenses, domain ownership verification, and a company phone number that is verified through a call or SMS.

This ensures the certificate is only issued to legitimate legal entities that match the organization information displayed in the cert.

Visual Trust Indicators

EV Code Signing Certificates clearly display the verified legal identity of the publisher, including:

  • Organization name
  • Physical address
  • Jurisdiction of incorporation

This provides a clear visual trust signal, allowing users to easily verify the identity of the software publisher before installation.

Enhanced Trust

Due to their extensive validation requirements and identity display, EV Code Signing Certificates provide the highest level of trust for signed code.

They help software get past security warnings and avoid flags from antivirus tools and SmartScreen filtering. This improves the user experience and increases install conversion rates.

Strict Issuance Policies

EV certificates must adhere to strict requirements published in the CA/Browser Forum guidelines. This includes validation procedures, identity display formats, key generation, and issuance criteria.

Cert authorities must pass independent audits to demonstrate compliance with EV guidelines before being allowed to issue this type of certificate.

Hardware-Backed Keys

The private keys for EV Code Signing Certs must be generated and stored in a secure cryptographic hardware device that meets FIPS 140-2 Level 2 or Common Criteria EAL 4+ security standards.

This prevents key compromise and misuse while enabling seamless signing workflows.

Benefits of Using EV Code Signing Certificates

There are many benefits to using an EV Code Signing Certificate to digitally sign software and applications:

Avoid Security Warnings

EV Code Signed software will not trigger warnings or blocks from SmartScreen, Windows Defender, anti-virus tools, gatekeepers, and other security software.

This improves the installation experience for end-users and increases conversion rates.

Build User Trust

The extensive identity verification and visual trust indicators help establish trust in the publisher. Users feel more confident downloading and installing EV signed software.

Prove Authenticity

The authenticated legal identity and document validation provides proof to users that the code they are installing comes from the real publisher and has not been tampered with.

Differentiate from Competition

EV Code Signing stands out from standard or self-signed certificates. It’s a mark of authenticity that adds credibility and makes your software stand out.

Meet Industry Requirements

Many software platforms and ecosystems require or recommend EV level signing to distribute code or integrate with their systems.

Streamline Distribution

EV signing makes it easier to get code through gatekeepers like app stores, software repositories, and ISVs. This streamlines distribution through trusted channels.

Protect Reputation

Prevents brand impersonation or malware distribution that could hurt your reputation and bottom line. EV provides accountability and trust.

When to Use an EV Code Signing Certificate

Here are some examples of when it makes sense to invest in an EV Code Signing Certificate:

  • Signing commercial software applications for public distribution
  • Software that will be featured in app stores and repositories
  • Developers with an established brand reputation to maintain
  • Software that integrates with enterprise systems
  • Companies selling directly to other businesses
  • Software that is auto-updated over the internet
  • Code that controls sensitive operations like medical, financial, industrial, etc.
  • Publishers distributing through resellers and VARs
  • Meeting requirements of specific software platforms and ecosystems
  • Maximizing software sales and conversion rates

EV Code Signing Use Cases

EV Code Signing Certificates can be used to sign various types of executable code across many platforms and environments:

Windows Applications

Sign .exe, .ocx, .dll, .msi, .sys, .scr, and other binaries for Windows operating systems. Enables driver installations.

Microsoft Office Add-Ins

Sign Office add-ins and extensions for Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Displays publisher identity in the Office UI.

Java Code

Sign .jar files, Java applets, and other bytecode for web and desktop apps deployed across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Solaris.

Adobe AIR Applications

Sign AIR packages and installer files (.air, .exe) for distribution through AIR runtime and app stores.

JavaScript and HTML5 Apps

Sign JavaScript code packages for web applications and HTML5 apps that run across platforms.

macOS Applications

Sign macOS apps (.app bundle, .pkg installers) for gatekeeper acceptance and distribution in the Mac App Store.

iOS and iPadOS Apps

Sign iOS application code and IPA files for Apple App Store distribution and enterprise deployment.

Android Apps

Sign Android APK package files and app bundles for Google Play Store publishing or sideloading.

Multi-Platform Apps

Sign cross-platform GUI apps built with Electron, Xamarin, React Native, Flutter, and game engines like Unreal & Unity.

Scripts and Automation

Sign PowerShell scripts, shell scripts, automation packages, and configuration management code like Ansible, Puppet, and Chef recipes.

Purchasing an EV Code Signing Certificate

EV Code Signing Certificates are available from trusted certificate authorities like DigiCert, Comodo, GlobalSign, and Sectigo.

Here’s what to look for when purchasing an EV code signing certificate:

Validation Process

Make sure the CA follows the CAB Forum EV Guidelines for stringent validation and identity verification. They should provide clear documentation of their issuance processes.

Compliant Issuers

Only purchase from reputable CAs who are audited for EV compliance andBrowser trusted. DigiCert, Sectigo, Globalsign, Comodo, and Buypass are safe options.

Key Generation & Storage

Look for CAs that generate keys directly on FIPS 140-2 Level 2+ certified hardware and provide options for physical tokens and HSM integration.

Certificate Platform

Make sure the CA has an intuitive online certificate manager platform for managing your certificates over their lifecycle. Auto-renewal and reissue options are also beneficial.

Code Signing Feature Set

Seek out CAs with robust code signing platforms that provide time stamping, bulk signing utilities, API integrations, detailed logs, and administrative controls.

Customer Support

Pick a CA with knowledgeable 24/7 customer support and access to code signing experts who can provide guidance and help with migrating certificates or troubleshooting issues.

Price Considerations

Here are some factors that influence EV Code Signing Certificate pricing:

  • Validation Level – EV certs are more expensive than standard certs due to extensive vetting processes.
  • Issuing CA – Prices vary between Certificate Authorities.
  • Key Storage – Physical tokens cost extra. Using existing HSMs reduces the price.
  • Validity Period – Longer terms like 2 or 3 years are more cost effective.
  • Support Level – Premium support adds cost. Basic email support is cheaper.
  • Volume Discounts – Bulk purchases may qualify for discounted rates.
Shop around between CAs to find the best value. EV Code Signing Certificates can range from $200-500 USD per year generally.

Should You Buy an EV Code Signing Certificate?

Here are some key questions to consider when deciding if an EV Code Signing Cert makes sense for your software:

  • Are you an established commercial software publisher? EV provides the greatest value for commercial developers and ISVs.
  • Is it critical users trust and recognize your software? EV signing maximizes end user trust.
  • Do you distribute through app stores or partner channels? EV meets many distribution gatekeeper requirements.
  • Is your code base growing? More signed apps means higher volume discounts.
  • Is software revenue a key part of your business? EV helps maximize conversion rates and sales.
  • Does your software perform sensitive functions? EV provides accountability and security for software that handles critical operations.
  • Are you selling to regulated industries? EV signing may be required to meet cybersecurity compliance mandates.
  • Do you operate globally? EV provides consistent trust across geographic regions.

If you answered “Yes” to some of these questions, an EV Code Signing Certificate is likely a wise investment that can provide excellent ROI.

For hobbyist developers or very small software teams just starting out, a basic code signing certificate may be sufficient initially. EV becomes more beneficial once you begin distributing commercially and have an established brand reputation.

EV Code Sign Certificate Deployment Tips

Here are some best practices for deploying and managing EV Code Signing Certificates:

  • Carefully plan out your signing infrastructure including roles, responsibilities, and access controls. Establish policies and procedures.
  • Use secure cryptographic hardware modules to generate, store keys and sign code. Retain backup tokens in geographically dispersed locations.
  • Integrate code signing into your automated build processes for routine usage. Sign binaries as soon as they are compiled.
  • Timestamp immediately after signing to lock certificates at a point in time. This extends the usefulness of the signature.
  • Renew certificates before expiration to avoid business disruptions. Set calendar reminders for renewal dates.
  • Have documented disaster recovery procedures for restoring signing operations and replacing lost or damaged HSM tokens.
  • Monitor certificate usage and designate specific signing purposes to match scopes. Isolate test and production environments.
  • Keep up with the latest CA/B Forum EV Code Signing Guidelines as requirements may evolve over time.

Migrating from Standard to EV Code Signing

Switching from standard to EV code signing certificates may require some updates to your processes, tools, and integrations. Here are some steps to consider:

  • Work with your CA or reseller to understand the requirements and documentation needed for EV vetting.
  • Purchase new EV certificates and obtain signing keys on certified hardware tokens. Retire and revoke the old standard certificates.
  • Update scripts and automation to use the new EV certificates for signing code. Handle the new tokens and access procedures.
  • Inform gatekeepers, software stores, and partners about your new EV certificates and provide necessary documentation.
  • Update administrative tools, monitoring, and internal documentation to reflect the EV certificates.
  • Consider re-signing previously released code with EV certificates to provide consistency. At minimum, sign new major versions with EV.
  • Promote the use of EV Code Signing in your marketing materials, websites, and application UI to maximize visibility with customers.

With some upfront planning and testing, migrating to EV can be a smooth transition that pays major dividends through increased software trust and sales.

Extending EV Code Signing to the Software Supply Chain

Companies may want to expand the use of EV Code Signing Certificates to third parties in their software supply chain:

Signing Partner Agreements

Have partners sign legal agreements defining allowable uses for EV certificates and key access. Prohibit unauthorized reselling.

Multi-Tier PKI

Leverage intermediate CAs to provide partners unique certificates chained to your root CA and restricted by purpose. Maintain control of root keys.

Automated Certificate Issuance

Use ACME or API integrations to automatically onboard partners to your PKI and provision restricted certificates quickly.

Certificate Lifecycle Management

Control and monitor partner certificates centrally – enroll, renew, replace, and revoke as needed.

Access Control

Grant limited access and usage rights through HSM roles and permissions. Use separate physical hardware tokens for each partner.

Auditing and Reporting

Rigorously log all certificate usage. Audit partners regularly for compliance. Watch closely for anomalies that could indicate misuse or compromise.

With the right policies and technical controls, EV Code Signing can be safely extended to third parties to enhance software integrity without sacrificing security.

Conclusion

EV Code Signing Certificates deliver the highest standard of identity verification and provide visual trust indicators that reassure users and help them distinguish legitimate applications from malware.

Through stringent validation of the legal entity, compliance with industry standards, and integration with secure cryptographic hardware, EV Code Signing Certificates maximize software trust, streamline distribution through gatekeepers, avoid warnings, and enable organizations to confidently deliver integrity to their customers.

Careful management practices, planning, and partner integration controls empower developers to grant and monitor EV Code Signing across their software supply chain.

If establishing authenticity and gaining end user confidence in your software is critical to your business, an investment in EV Code Signing Certificates can provide substantial long term value.

FAQs on Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL Certificate

How is EV different from standard code signing certificates?

EV Code Signing Certificates require extensive organizational identity validation not performed for standard certificates. EV also displays the verified identity details prominently and undergoes strict issuance controls.

What are the industry standards for EV Code Signing?

The CA/Browser Forum publishes the Minimum Requirements for Code Signing Certificates and EV Code Signing Guidelines which CAs must comply with to issue this type of certificate.

How long does EV Code Signing validation take?

The verification process typically takes 3-5 business days but can vary depending on the responsiveness of the applicant in providing required documentation.

What kind of documents are required for EV Code Signing?

Typical documents include business licenses, Articles of Incorporation, Certificate of Incumbency, bank statements, domain ownership verification, and an accessible company phone number that is called to verify identity.

Can I use my existing hardware security module for EV Code Signing keys?

Yes, existing hardware like HSMs can potentially be used as long as they comply with FIPS 140 Level 2 or CC EAL 4+ certification standards. Your CA will provide guidance.

What is the warranty protection for EV Code Signing Certificates?

EV Code Signing certs come with a minimum $1 million warranty that covers losses users suffer from reliance on a certificate that was improperly issued or compromised due to CA private key breach.

How can I migrate my code signing process from standard to EV certificates?

Work with your CA on the validation process. Purchase new EV certificates. Update your code signing tools and processes to leverage the new certificates. Inform partners and gatekeepers about the change. Retire old standard certificates.