Is it necessary to apply for code signing certificate for software client digital signature?

Benefits of code signing certificate

1. Can win the trust of customers

Code signing provides authentication , To ensure that the file downloaded by the customer comes from the certificate issuer . Show the identity of the signer before running the application , To enhance the trust of users .

2. Protect brand reputation

Eliminate safety warnings , Display the verified company name when the user installs the software .

3. Ensure code integrity

If you need to transmit code on the Internet , And you want to make sure that no one changes or uses your source code , Then this tool is more suitable for you . It can reassure you , Once your work is published online , It will not be modified by suspicious individuals . Once the application is signed , The system can detect any changes in the application , Whether it's accidental introduction or malicious code .

As a better solution for software developers —— Code signing certificate , Software developers can sign their software code , Identify the source of software development and the true identity of software developers through the digital signature of the code , To ensure that the code will not be maliciously tampered with after signing , And ensure the integrity of the document .

The code signature certificate is divided into ordinary type （OV） And enhanced （EV） Two kinds of .

OV Type code signing certificate ： After signing the certificate with ordinary code , Erasable system “ Unknown Developer ” Safety warning ( Here's the picture ).

When users install software , It will pop up （ As shown in the figure below ）, Show the real identity of the issuer , Users can choose according to whether they trust the publisher “ Still running ” perhaps “ Not running ”.

EV Code signing certificate ： Elimination system “ Unknown Developer ” In addition to the safety warning , More powerful , It has the advantages that ordinary code signing certificates do not .

Enhancing the code signing certificate will improve the security of the software , Replace the security warning of unsigned code with a notification containing the information of the software publisher , Avoid users abandoning installation , Improve download rate , Help increase users' trust .

It also supports Windows10 Kernel driver signature , Become Microsoft Windows10 Mandatory code signing certificate .

If you sign the software code ,OV and EV You can choose two types .

If there are strict requirements for software user experience , Suggested choice EV Type code signing certificate .

If you are signing for the driver , You can only choose EV Type code signing certificate , Especially in Windows In the system , Must be mandatory EV Code signing certificate .