Last updated: Nov 1, 2025
In the digital software world, trust is everything. Whether you’re distributing a Windows executable, macOS app, Android APK, or even Python scripts, your users expect one thing when they download your code — security. That’s where code signing certificates come into play. These certificates are used to digitally sign software, proving that it hasn’t been tampered with and truly comes from the claimed publisher.
But here’s the challenge most developers face: Code signing certificates can be expensive, especially for independent developers, open-source maintainers, students, and startups. This has led many to search for a free code signing certificate that allows them to sign software without paying hundreds of dollars per year. So, the natural question becomes: Is there a way to get a free code signing certificate in 2026? And if so — how?
This guide answers those questions in full. It explains what free code signing certificates really are, where to get them, how to use them, and when it’s still better to go for a paid option. You’ll get step-by-step instructions suitable for different platforms like Windows, macOS, and Android, along with limitations you need to know upfront.
Whether you’re seeking a free code signing certificate for Windows software, or trying to sign a free and open-source APK, this guide provides actionable answers — based on current platforms, providers, and technology.
What is a Code Signing Certificate and Why It Matters
A code signing certificate is a type of digital certificate used to verify the identity of a software publisher and to confirm that the software hasn’t been altered since it was signed. When you sign your code or executable using a valid certificate, operating systems and browsers recognize the publisher as trustworthy, reducing security warnings and boosting user confidence.
Code signing works by applying a cryptographic signature to your software package — such as a .exe, .dll, .pkg, or .apk file. This signature includes information that ties the software back to a verified identity. For example, when users download a Windows executable that’s been signed with a legitimate code signing certificate, they see a verified publisher name instead of “Unknown Publisher.”
So why does this matter?
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Security: Code signing protects users from tampered or malware-infected downloads.
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Trust and Branding: A signed application (especially using a recognized CA) builds trust from customers and systems alike.
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OS Compatibility: Platforms like Windows Defender SmartScreen, macOS Gatekeeper, and even Android will block or warn against unsigned software.
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Fewer Installs Blocked: Signed files get fewer false-positive antivirus flags.
Today, even if you’re an independent developer or managing a free open-source project, signed software is critical. Yet many people still ask:
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Can I get a code signing certificate free of cost?
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Does a free code signing certificate actually work on Windows or macOS?
Free vs Paid Code Signing Certificates: What’s the Difference?
Before you decide whether to use a free code signing certificate, it’s important to understand how it differs from a paid one. Both types allow you to digitally sign your software, but the level of trust and recognition they provide can vary drastically depending on how and where they are issued.
A paid code signing certificate is issued by a publicly trusted Certificate Authority (CA) such as DigiCert, Sectigo, or GlobalSign. These certificates undergo validation (at least organization or extended validation for higher trust), and are automatically trusted by most operating systems and browsers without requiring end users to add manual exceptions.
In contrast, a free code signing certificate may not come from a publicly trusted CA. Instead, these certificates are often issued by private or development-focused authorities or generated through tools like OpenSSL. This means they can sign code successfully, but may not be trusted automatically by default Windows, macOS, or mobile systems unless the certificate is manually installed or the root CA is added to the user’s trust store. Free code signing certificate is a digital certificate that allows developers to sign software or executables without paying for a commercial code signing certificate. These certificates are often issued by open-source programs, internal certificate authorities, or generated via self-signing tools, but they are not automatically trusted by operating systems unless the certificate authority is recognized.
Key Differences to Consider:
Here is an overview of how free code signing certificates compare to paid options:
| Aspect | Free Code Signing Certificate | Paid Code Signing Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Level | Not trusted by default | Trusted by all major OS and browsers |
| Cost | Free | $100–$500/year |
| Validation Type | Self-signed or minimal | Organization or Extended Validation |
| Target Use | Open-source, internal use, testing | Commercial software, public releases |
| SmartScreen Support | No | Yes (for EV certs) |
| Distribution Safety | Limited — may show warnings | Safe — reduces security prompts |
When a Free Code Signing Certificate Works
You can use a free code signing certificate effectively in these situations:
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Signing open-source software for GitHub or internal release
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Testing build pipelines like GitHub Actions or Azure DevOps
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Signing internal tools distributed to controlled environments
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Learning or training in software packaging and signing
However, for any public or commercial release — especially on platforms like Microsoft Windows or macOS — the lack of automatic browser or OS trust in free code signing certificates becomes a significant problem.
When Paid Code Signing Is Necessary
If you want your users to download your application without warnings, bypass antivirus flags, and avoid SmartScreen or Gatekeeper errors, a paid code signing certificate from a well-known CA becomes necessary. These certificates also help avoid install friction for installers, drivers, and mobile apps.
Where to Find Free Code Signing Certificate Providers in 2026
Free code signing certificate refers to a no-cost certificate developers can use to apply a digital signature to applications, software packages, or scripts. Although functionally similar to commercial certificates, free alternatives often lack root trust recognition, regulatory validation, or SmartScreen/Gatekeeper compatibility, making them unsuitable for public or commercial software distribution. Now that you understand the difference between paid and free certificates, let’s look at where and how you can get a free code signing certificate in 2026. The availability of free code signing certificates has become much more limited over the years due to abuse, malware distribution, and stricter security policies enforced by operating systems and Certificate Authorities. However, there are still places and scenarios where you can legitimately obtain and use a free code signing certificate.
Here’s a breakdown of the currently available sources and how they work:
1. Free Code Signing Certificate for Open Source Developers (e.g., SignPath, SSL.com)
Some platforms support open-source developers by offering free code signing certificates exclusively for open-source projects. These certificates may be issued by a trusted CA and can be used to sign Windows .exe, macOS .pkg, or other binary files without paying for a commercial certificate.
Examples include:
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SignPath Foundation Open Source CA
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SSL.com Open Source Program (invite or request-based)
These solutions require you to prove that your project is fully open-source (GPL, MIT, Apache, etc.), with public source code available on platforms like GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket.
2. Free Code Signing via Self-Signed Certificates (Local/Internal Use)
You can generate a self-signed code signing certificate using OpenSSL or the built-in tools of Windows, Java, or macOS. This allows you to sign software, but only within environments where you control the trust settings. It is unsuitable for public distribution.
Good for:
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Internal software deployments
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Training and development testing
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Local or private build usage
However, self-signed certificates will not bypass Windows SmartScreen or macOS Gatekeeper without extra steps.
3. Free Code Signing with Private or Demo CAs
Some platforms (like test environments, sandboxed dev networks, or enterprise PKI systems) allow you to create temporary or free certificates through development or internal certificate authorities. These are ideal for internal apps, testing pipelines, or distributing tools within closed networks.
Examples:
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AD CS (Active Directory Certificate Services) in Windows environments
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Private PKI via HashiCorp Vault, Smallstep, Cloudflare PKI/TLS tools
4. Free Code Signing for Open-Source Mobile Apps
Mobile platforms like Android allow APK signing using generated keystores, and this does not require purchasing a code signing certificate from a trusted CA. Instead, you can use tools like:
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Android Studio’s
apksignertool -
Java’s
keytoolfor JAR/APK signing -
Gradle’s signing plugin (automated in CI/CD)
These signatures are trusted within the Google Play ecosystem or sideload environments after installing the APK.
Quick Comparison of Free Options
| Free Option | Trusted by OS? | Ideal For | Public Use? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Source CA | Yes | Public open-source software | Yes |
| Self-Signed | No | Testing, internal use | No |
| Private CA | No (unless trust added) | Enterprise internal tools | No |
| Android/AAB signing | Yes (if Play Store verified) | Mobile apps | Yes |
| Java/.NET signing | No (local store required) | Internal use | No |
How to Get a Free Code Signing Certificate (Step-by-Step Guide)
Now that you know your options for obtaining a free code signing certificate, let’s look at the step-by-step process on how to actually generate, request, and use one to sign your code. Since not all free solutions work the same way, we’ll break it down by use case: open-source public signing, self-signing, and platform-specific signing (Windows, macOS, Android).
1. Get a Free Code Signing Certificate for Open-Source Projects
If you’re contributing to open-source software and want a valid, trusted code signing certificate, platforms like SignPath and SSL.com’s Open Source Code Signing program may approve your application.
Here’s how the process works:
Paragraph Explanation:
These services require that your project meets certain eligibility requirements — typically that the project is open-source and published under a recognized license (MIT, GPL, Apache, etc.). Once approved, they’ll issue you a trusted certificate that can be used to sign release builds through CI/CD automation or desktop utilities.
Steps to Apply:
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Prepare an active GitHub/GitLab repository with open-source license.
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Visit the platform and apply for open-source signing (e.g., SignPath.org).
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Submit project details and validation information.
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After review, receive access to a trusted certificate or signing portal.
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Sign your builds via automation or direct certificate download.
These signatures are trusted by major platforms, and they eliminate the “Unknown Publisher” warnings usually shown with self-signed certificates.
2. Generate a Free Self-Signed Code Signing Certificate (Windows, macOS, Linux)
If you need to sign applications for testing, internal distribution, or development, you can generate a self-signed code signing certificate. This method is free and fast — but the resulting signature will not be publicly trusted.
Paragraph Explanation:
Self-signed certificates are useful for sandbox testing, internal business apps, or pre-release builds. They can be treated as “trusted” only in environments where you’re able to install the root certificate manually.
Example Command (Windows PowerShell):
After creating it, you can export it as a .pfx and use it with tools like signtool.exe or osslsigncode.
3. Get a Free Code Signing Certificate for Android APK (Google Play Accepted)
Android developers can generate a free signing key to sign their APK or AAB files without requiring a paid code signing certificate. The Google Play ecosystem accepts these certificates after verification.
Paragraph Explanation:
Unlike Windows and macOS, Android allows developers to self-generate certificates that will still be accepted by users — as long as the app is published via Google Play or the trust store recognizes your key.
Steps using keytool:
You can then sign the APK using this certificate and upload it to Google Play Console for automatic verification.
4. Free Code Signing for macOS (.pkg/.app)
For macOS apps, code signing certificates must be issued by Apple — even for free apps. However, Apple provides free Mac Developer certificates when you enroll in the Apple Developer Program for open-source or educational use.
Paragraph Explanation:
Developers can apply for a free “Developer ID Application” certificate that is valid for signing and distributing apps outside the App Store. You need an Apple ID and Xcode installed to complete the request.
Steps in Xcode:
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Open Xcode → Preferences → Accounts
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Sign in with Apple Developer ID
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Enable “Automatic Code Signing”
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Xcode generates the certificate for you in the Keychain
This works for .app and .pkg apps but includes some restrictions for commercial distribution without paid membership.
Common Limitations and Risks of Free Code Signing Certificates
Free code signing certificates can be incredibly useful — especially for open-source developers, CI/CD pipelines, and projects that aren’t intended for public distribution. However, they come with important limitations and risks that you need to understand before using one in production or distributing signed software to end users.
You May Not Be Trusted by the OS or Browser
When using a self-signed or privately issued code signing certificate, the operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) typically does not trust the certificate authority by default.
This leads to warnings like:
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“Unknown publisher” (Windows)
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“App cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer” (macOS)
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“This app may harm your device” (Android APK sideload)
To bypass this, end-users must manually install your root certificate or bypass system security — which reduces credibility and increases abandonment risks.
Free Code Signing Doesn’t Support EV or SmartScreen Reputation
Paid vendors (like DigiCert or Sectigo) offer Extended Validation (EV) code signing certificates that come with SmartScreen or Gatekeeper reputation support. These decrease installation warnings and provide auto-trust on systems like Windows 10/11.
Free certificates do not include:
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EV-level validation
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Reputation boosting for new apps
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Pre-trusted CA roots for public distribution
Limited Use Cases: Internal, Open-Source, or Testing
Free code signing certificates are typically licensed or trusted only when used:
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For open-source projects under a valid public license
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In internal/private release environments
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In user-controlled systems like dev machines, enterprise networks, or lab devices
Using them in commercial or public-facing apps is not secure or sustainable.
Renewal and Validity Constraints
Free code signing certificates often have:
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Shorter validity periods (e.g. 90 or 180 days)
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No guaranteed renewal
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Limited customer support
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Restrictions on how and where you may distribute the software
That’s not ideal for shipping production builds or establishing long-term trust.
Security Risks from Incorrect Usage
A developer using free tools like OpenSSL to create a self-signed certificate might not follow proper key storage, hashing, or signing guidelines. This introduces the risk of:
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Weak key generation (e.g., RSA 1024-bit instead of modern 3072-bit or ECDSA keys)
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Stolen or leaked private keys
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Reused or shared signing certs exposing the app to impersonation attacks
Summary: When Free Code Signing Becomes a Liability
If you’re releasing software that will be downloaded by users outside your organization — especially on Windows or macOS — relying on a free code signing certificate will usually trigger distrust and security prompts, affecting reputation and adoption.
Best Practices for Using Code Signing Certificates (Free or Paid)
Whether you’re using a free code signing certificate or a fully validated commercial one, proper code signing hygiene is vital to maintaining trust and security. Code signing isn’t just a box to check during deployment — it’s part of your software supply chain, and how you implement it will have lasting effects on both end users and your brand reputation.
Here are key best practices that apply across all certificate types:
Always Protect Your Private Key
Your private key is the most critical asset in code signing. If it’s compromised, attackers can use it to distribute malware disguised as legitimate software.
Key guidelines:
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Store private keys in a secure location, such as an HSM (hardware security module) or password-protected
.pfxfile. -
Never commit certs or private keys to GitHub or shared repositories.
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Use unique signing keys for different products or deployment environments.
Use Timestamping for Long-Term Validation
Even the strongest code signing certificate will expire — often within 1 to 3 years. But if you timestamp your signature, it will remain valid long after the certificate has expired.
Why timestamping matters:
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Prevents your app from showing errors after the certificate expiration date.
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Retains authenticity even if the signing certificate is revoked.
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Helps build trust and supply chain security.
Windows example using signtool:
Follow Modern Hashing and Key Size Standards
Legacy algorithms like SHA-1 or RSA 1024-bit are no longer trusted. Make sure your cert and signing tools use secure settings.
Recommended minimums:
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SHA-256 hashing or higher
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RSA 2048-bit or ECC (P-256) key strength
Automate Certificate Usage in CI/CD Pipelines
To streamline builds, updates, and releases, use DevOps tools like GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, or Azure DevOps to script code signing as part of your deployment pipeline.
Benefits:
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Reduces human error
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Ensures consistent signing across versions
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Protects certs by storing them securely in vaults or encrypted variables
Monitor Certificate Expiry and Renew Proactively
Expired certificates can break critical workflows, prevent application installs, and lead to system alerts. Especially when using free code signing certificates with shorter lifetimes, always set up certificate expiry alerts at least 30–60 days before expiration.
Validate Signatures Before Distribution
Whether using jarsigner, osslsigncode, signtool.exe, or Xcode signing tools, always verify signed output files before sharing or publishing just to confirm that:
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The certificate is included
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The timestamp is valid
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The chain of trust works
Key Takeaways from Best Practices
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Secure your private key correctly to prevent compromise.
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Timestamp every signed file to preserve verification after expiration.
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Avoid outdated algorithms or weak RSA key lengths.
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Prefer automated code signing in CI/CD.
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Monitor and prepare for renewals — especially with free certs.
Conclusion
Whether you’re creating software for Windows, macOS, Android, or cross-platform use, code signing is no longer optional. Just as HTTPS reshaped the web, software users now expect signed applications for safety and trust. But that doesn’t mean every project needs a paid certificate from the start.
Free code signing certificates can be useful — especially for:
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Open-source projects
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Internal business tools
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Early-stage app testing
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CI/CD pipeline integration
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Android APK signing
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Developer training and code signing education
That said, they do not replace trusted, publicly validated code signing certificates when distributing commercial applications or consumer-facing software. Self-signed and free certs lack the root trust, SmartScreen reputation, and validation levels required for painless end-user installation.
Choosing the right option depends on the nature of your project:
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If your app is open-source, explore free CA-backed signing programs.
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If your app is internal-use only, a self-signed certificate may be enough.
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If your app is public or commercial, invest in a paid code signing certificate from a trusted Certificate Authority.
In all cases, follow code signing best practices — protect your private key, timestamp your signatures, automate secure pipelines, and monitor certificate expirations. Code signing is not just a trust symbol. It’s an essential layer in modern software supply chain security.
FAQ About Free Code Signing Certificates
Can I really get a code signing certificate for free?
Yes — but options are limited. Free code signing certificates are generally only available to open-source projects, internal-use tools, or developers willing to use self-signed certificates. A free code signing certificate from a trusted CA is rare and often requires eligibility (like open-source verification).
What’s the best way to get a free code signing certificate for Windows software?
If you’re publishing open-source software, your best option is to apply for a free open-source code signing certificate through SignPath or approved community programs. If not, you may need to use a self-signed certificate — but this will not be trusted by Windows by default and will show “Unknown Publisher” warnings to users.
Why wouldn’t I use a self-signed code signing certificate for public distribution?
Self-signed certificates are not trusted by operating systems or browsers. This means users will get warnings like “The publisher could not be verified” or “This application might be unsafe.” For any type of publicly downloaded software, you will need a paid certificate from a trusted CA.
Is a free code signing certificate supported by SmartScreen on Windows?
No. SmartScreen only trusts certificates from known Certificate Authorities (CAs) and builds reputation over time. Free certificates do not provide SmartScreen reputation unless they come from a publicly trusted provider.
Can I use a free code signing certificate for macOS applications?
Apple only trusts certificates issued through its own developer platform. While the Apple Developer Program offers free certificates for testing, distribution outside the App Store requires proper enrollment. You cannot use a generic free code signing certificate for macOS distribution outside trusted developer programs.
Can I sign Android apps for free without buying a certificate?
Yes. Android apps (.apk or .aab files) can be signed using a locally generated keystore file, and this approach is accepted by Google Play. No third-party certificate is needed unless you’re signing outside official app stores.
Which free code signing method is best for software distributed publicly?
Only the free open-source code signing CA programs can provide trusted certificates suitable for public distribution — and that’s only if your software is eligible as open-source.
