As technology dangers keep getting better, it is more important than ever for software creators to use strong code signing properly. Code signing increases users’ confidence that the downloaded software is genuine and has not been changed. It also helps creators protect their unique ideas and good name. While code signing has long been used for driver installation and other essential apps on Windows and Mac, it is becoming more normal for all programs.
This article examines the top seven code-signing solutions to help software companies achieve their security goals.
1. Microsoft Authenticode
Microsoft Authenticode is the default standard used for code signing in Windows. It uses digital signing technology based on certificates to check the files and installers to ensure they are whole and from the right source. Windows automatically checks Authenticode signatures when someone tries to run a program. This helps stop harmful programs and proves trusted apps come from the maker.
While Authenticode code signing is free, certificates must be obtained separately from another certificate company (CA). Microsoft does not give out Code Signing Solution certificates itself. It works best for easy checks and small apps without choosing a full commercial certificate. By default, the signatures stop working after one year.
2. Symantec Code Signing
Symantec has led the way with code signing for a long time and offers vital code-signing certificates. Their certificates let you sign programs for Windows, Mac, and Android. You can buy them for 1, 2, or 3 years. Symantec provides an easy step-by-step signing tool for making and adding signatures.
Unique options include timestamping of signatures to make them last longer and checking for revoked signatures. Symantec is an excellent choice for big companies because of its good name and extra checking steps for server signatures. Help is excellent through Symantec’s tech help website.
3. DigiCert Code Signing
DigiCert is another significant commercial certificate authority with extensive code signing options. They offer basic and extended validation (EV) code signing certificates that are compatible with all major platforms. DigiCert has an intuitive code signing manager tool for one-click signing. Timestamping, revocation checking, and long validity periods of up to 825 days are supported.
DigiCert is known for its fast issuance times, often fulfilling requests within hours. Their “Code Signing 360” service handles the entire workflow from application to long-term key archiving. Pricing is competitive, starting at $150/year. Customer support is very responsive via phone, chat, and email. DigiCert is a top choice for seamless cross-platform signing.
4. GlobalSign Code Signing Certificate
GlobalSign is one of the biggest companies that signs computer code. They have a complete program for code certificates. They offer certificates for most operating systems, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, etc. GlobalSign uses one easy system to sign batches of codes quickly with one click or drag-and-drop. Certificates last a long time, up to eight years.
Their process automatically checks for harmful programs during signing. GlobalSign can also add timestamps for older systems that don’t check timestamps on their own, like iPhone and Android. GlobalSign is suitable for businesses with many complex apps across different operating systems.
5. Comodo Code Signing Certificates
Comodo is known for its inexpensive security products. Its code-signing certificates are great deals, too. They provide regular and extended types that all major operating systems accept. Signatures are created with Comodo’s easy, all-in-one signing tool. One unique feature is “pre-signing,” which lets files get digitally ready before final sharing.
Comodo offers reasonable prices starting at $99 a year with a “code + website” certificate package. Help is available through email, online chat, and phone calls. Comodo code signing works well for developers watching their money but still needs signature protection. The automated pre-signing feature also saves time.
6. Thawte Code Signing Certificate
Thawte has over 20 years of experience dealing with certificate authorities. They provide strong code signing signatures for Windows, Mac, Java, and Adobe programs. Extended options for essential use and archive timestamps are supported. Signatures can be made through Thawte’s online code signing website and desktop signing tool.
Pricing is reasonable, starting at $150 for a whole year for elemental signatures. Thawte makes sure the application and fulfillment process are simple. Customer support reps are available daily by phone, online chat, email, or question tickets. Thawte is backed by Symantec’s security skills and resources, making it a knowledgeable choice for critical projects.
7. GoDaddy Code Signing Certificate
GoDaddy has expanded beyond domains into hosting and other products, including code signing certificates. They support signing for Windows, Mac, and Java apps from their central code signing manager. Basic signing is easy to set up, while extended validation needs a bit more checking.
Wrapping Up
Because of the dangers of harmful programs and tampered software, code signing has become a crucial security step for developers of all sizes. The solutions discussed here represent top companies’ software makers can count on to protect their names and users.
Things like supported operating systems, prices, how long certificates last, and customer help will change based on the exact project needs. Good code signing provides dependability and trust for developers and end-users in today’s digital world. Choosing a provider ready to meet present and future signing needs ensures long-term app security.