Most internet users often download software solutions to their laptops or desktops from the internet. However, most of them fail to realize that they should be cautious when downloading software systems from the internet. Most of them do not even know what a code signing certificate is?

Internet users should be wary of third parties that might masquerade as software providers. This is why it is essential to ask yourself what is code signing certificate, if you want to ensure that you are downloading genuine software solutions from the web.

Let us begin by explaining the process of code signing. Code signing can be described as an operation where a software distributor or developer signs the software digitally. This is done to guarantee that the software is genuine and exactly what the developers claim it to be.

In other words, code signing, or the digital signature will enable internet users to guarantee that no one has modified the software or has not been tampered with by anyone. So, software developers and distributors should buy code signing certificates to protect users or customers.

Decoding A Code Signing Certificate

Code signing has become an essential requirement for software distributors and developers, as more and more internet users have started to download software solutions from the internet. This is because hackers and cybercriminals might mask themselves as trusted or legitimate sources.

Once they have tricked customers into believing that they are legitimate sources, they will plant malware on the user’s computer. The good news is that users will be able to avoid such attacks by downloading software solutions that are regarded as safe by their OS.

It is crucial to understand that the Operating System of your computer will check for the digital certificate of software systems created through code signing. This is done to ensure that the software to be installed is safe and genuine.

If the Operating System detects that there is no digital certificate with the downloaded software, the user will be alerted. In addition to that, the Operating System of your device might even prompt you to stop the installation process.

How Does Code Signing Work to Secure Your Software?

The technique or process of code signing has multiple steps. The code signing process begins with the generation of a unique key pair. The created key pair will be a public-private pair because public-key cryptography is used in code signing.

After the key pair has been created, the public key will be sent to a CA or certificate authority. The CA will verify that the key belongs to the software developer by returning the key along with the digitally signed certificate. The certificate authority is responsible for generating and signing digital certificates.

The code signing certificate that the CA shares along with the public key to the software developer will confirm the trustworthiness of the software and the developer. This is why it is essential to look for code signing certificates when downloading software from the web.

After returning the digital certificate and public key, the software code will be run through a one-way function called the hash function. The hash function will transform the code into a random set of values, and it cannot be converted into its original form. The output can be encrypted with the help of a private key.

Some of you might be wondering why a private key is used for the encryption process instead of a public key. This is because software developers want others to read the message, but they don’t want anyone to modify or tamper with it.

Once the software has been downloaded, the user’s computer will check the code signing certificate’s authenticity. After confirming the certificate’s authenticity, the digest will be decrypted by using the public key from the original key pair.

The hash function will be used on the code of the software. The resulting digest will be compared with the digest that the software developer sends. If they match, then it means that the software is genuine and safe to install on your computer.

Advantages of Using Code Signing Certificates

Code signing certificate acts as a digital signature, which will convince internet users that the software comes from a reliable developer and the software code has not been tampered with. Here are a few benefits you can enjoy by using a code signing certificate.

Boosts Customer Confidence and Trust

One of the apparent benefits of using code signing certificates is that it boosts customer trust and confidence. Giving assurance to users that the software code has not been modified or tampered with will provide users with enough confidence to download the software. Internet users will be hesitant to install the software if there isn’t a code signing certificate.

Authenticity

Another added advantage of using a code signing certificate is that it offers the surety that the downloaded file or software is from a trusted or reliable organization or software provider. This will help developers and businesses to preserve their reputations.

Code Signing Certificate Displays The Details Of The Software Developer Or Organization

Code signing certificates will display the type, name, and address of the organization that has created the software. This will, in turn, help internet users to identify or even contact the publisher or author of the code or software if they have any queries or run into any issues.

Other Advantages

Another noticeable benefit of code signing certificates is that it is compatible with all major platforms like Mac OS, Adobe AIR, Authenticode, and Java. Moreover, code signing certificates allow organizations and software developers to sign unlimited scripts, software code, and applications.

Several new software developers or beginners have a misconception that code signing certificates are expensive. The reality is that you will easily find cheap code signing certificate that fall within your budget with proper research.

Types Of Code Signing Certificates

Trusted Certificate Authorities issue two different types of code signing certificates, known as EV code signing certificates and standard code signing certificates.

The standard version of the certificate confirms the organization’s physical address, phone number, and name. The standard code signing certificate will be issued directly to the business.

On the other hand, the EV code signing certificate will be undertaking a comprehensive verification process. The verification process will be based on the guidelines laid down by the Browser Forum or Certificate Authority.

Who Uses Code Signing?

The code signing process is used by reliable, popular, and trusted app stores like the Google Play Store and iOS Appstore. Some of the most common examples of code-signed software are Windows Software updates, Windows applications, Microsoft Office VBA objects, Apple Software, and more.

Final Thoughts

Most internet users are downloading software systems to simplify their daily activities. That said, most of them are worried if they are downloading genuine software systems or not. Fortunately, you can ensure that the software is genuine by using a code signing certificate.