What is Code Signing?

Code Signing (code signing certificates) are a type of digital certificate used to digitally sign software, applications, or source code, in order to verify that:

  • The software is published by an identified and trusted developer
  • The source code has not been modified or tampered with after release

When software is signed with a Code Signing certificate, operating systems such as Windows, macOS, or security software will trust it and allow it to run without (or with minimal) security warning messages.

How Code Signing Works

Code Signing works by digitally signing software to help operating systems and users verify the publisher’s identity and ensure that the software has not been modified during distribution.

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Digitally sign the software before release

The developer uses a Code Signing certificate to digitally sign the software file before release, creating a digital signature that is permanently linked to the file’s content at the time of signing.

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Attach the publisher’s identity

The digital signing process embeds verified publisher information into the software, allowing the operating system to clearly identify who developed and published it.

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Distribute the software to users

After signing, the software is distributed via websites, email, or download channels, while the digital signature remains intact and travels with the file.

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Automatic verification by the operating system

When users install or run the software, the operating system automatically verifies the digital signature without requiring any manual action.

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Detect tampering or forgery

If the software file is altered, modified, or injected with malicious code after signing, the digital signature becomes invalid and the operating system will display a security warning.

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Allow execution when the signature is valid

When the digital signature is valid and trusted, the software is allowed to run normally, clearly displaying the publisher’s name and minimizing security warnings.

Benefits of Using Code Signing

Applications and software that are not digitally signed are at risk of being modified or injected with malicious code during distribution, posing security threats to users’ devices and frequently triggering security warnings from operating systems.

Code Signing Certificates clearly authenticate the publisher and ensure that the software has not been altered since the time of signing. As a result, security warnings are replaced with transparent publisher information, giving users confidence to install the software while enhancing its security and credibility.

Not Using Code Signing
Software is more likely to trigger security warnings and its publisher cannot be clearly identified.

Using Code Signing
Software is clearly verified, more secure, and builds trust during installation.