In today’s digital world, users download software, drivers, mobile apps, and scripts from countless sources. But how do they know the software hasn’t been tampered with or infected with malware?
This is where Code Signing Certificates come in. They allow software developers and publishers to digitally sign their code, proving its authenticity and integrity.
Among the top Certificate Authorities (CAs), DigiCert is one of the world’s most trusted names for Code Signing. This guide will help beginners understand what a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate is, how it works, why it’s important, and how to get one.
What Is a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate?
A DigiCert Code Signing Certificate is a digital certificate issued by DigiCert, used by developers to sign software, executables, scripts, and drivers.
When you sign your software with DigiCert, it attaches a cryptographic digital signature that proves:
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The software really comes from you (the verified publisher)
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The code hasn’t been altered since it was signed
So, when end-users download or install your software, they won’t see scary “Unknown Publisher” warnings. Instead, they’ll see your verified publisher name and trust the download.
How Does DigiCert Code Signing Work?
Here’s how the process works in simple terms:
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Generate a Private Key: When you buy a Code Signing Certificate, DigiCert issues it to you after verifying your identity.
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Sign Your Code: You use your private key to digitally sign your application or driver.
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Add a Timestamp: Optional but recommended. A timestamp proves when the code was signed. Even if your certificate expires later, the signature stays valid.
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End-User Verification: When a user downloads the software, their OS or browser checks the signature against DigiCert’s trusted root certificate. If valid, it confirms the publisher’s identity and that the file hasn’t been modified.
This builds trust and ensures your software installs without unnecessary security warnings.
Key Features of DigiCert Code Signing Certificate
DigiCert’s Code Signing Certificates offer features that make them stand out:
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✅ Trusted Root: DigiCert has one of the most trusted root certificates globally, ensuring broad compatibility.
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✅ Strong Encryption: Uses strong cryptography for secure signatures.
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✅ Microsoft SmartScreen Reputation: The EV version boosts reputation, helping bypass Microsoft SmartScreen filter warnings.
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✅ Hardware Security: The EV version is issued on a physical USB token, keeping your private key safe.
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✅ Wide Platform Support: Compatible with Microsoft Authenticode, Java, Adobe AIR, MacOS, Kernel-mode drivers, and mobile apps.
Benefits of Using DigiCert Code Signing Certificate
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Builds Trust: Users see your verified publisher name instead of “Unknown Publisher”.
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Protects Integrity: Assures users the software hasn’t been modified or infected.
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Prevents Tampering: Attackers can’t alter signed code undetected.
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Smoother Installs: Fewer security pop-ups and blocks during installation.
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Better Brand Reputation: Shows you’re a serious developer who cares about security.
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Increases Downloads: Higher trust means more people will install your software.
Types of DigiCert Code Signing Certificates
👉 Standard Code Signing Certificate
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Validation: Organization Validation (OV) — your business identity is checked.
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Good for: Independent software vendors, small to medium businesses.
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Use: Signing desktop applications, scripts, and executables.
👉 EV (Extended Validation) Code Signing Certificate
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Validation: Extended Validation — strict vetting of your organization.
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Comes with a hardware token to securely store the private key.
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Best for: Companies that distribute drivers and Windows kernel-mode software.
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Benefit: Bypasses Microsoft SmartScreen “Unknown Publisher” warnings faster, thanks to an instant reputation boost.
How to Get a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate
Step-by-Step Process:
1️⃣ Choose Your Certificate: Standard or EV, based on your needs.
2️⃣ Place the Order: Provide your business details and payment.
3️⃣ Complete Verification: DigiCert verifies your company’s legal existence and authority. For EV, they might call you and check registration details.
4️⃣ Receive Certificate: DigiCert issues your certificate. For EV, you get a hardware token shipped to your address.
5️⃣ Install & Sign: Install the certificate and sign your applications using signing tools (like Microsoft SignTool).
How Much Does DigiCert Code Signing Cost?
The cost of a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate varies:
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Standard: Usually around $400–$500/year.
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EV: Generally $700–$900/year.
While they’re not the cheapest, DigiCert is trusted worldwide, and the added reputation can save you from SmartScreen rejections, lost installs, and user distrust — making the investment worth it.
DigiCert vs Other Code Signing Providers
Popular Alternatives:
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Sectigo (Comodo) — Cheaper but slower validation, lower reputation scores for SmartScreen.
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GlobalSign — Similar reputation to DigiCert but pricing varies.
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Thawte — Good for small developers but less popular than DigiCert.
✅ Why DigiCert?
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One of the world’s most recognized CAs.
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Excellent support.
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Higher SmartScreen reputation scores.
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More trusted for enterprise software, large businesses, and global distribution.
Common FAQs
Q1. What if my certificate expires?
Signed code remains valid if timestamped. Without timestamping, your signature becomes invalid when the certificate expires.
Q2. Can I reissue it if I lose it?
Yes, DigiCert allows reissuance if your private key is lost, but it involves security checks.
Q3. Is it refundable?
Usually no, once issued and verified. Always double-check before buying.
Q4. Can I use it for driver signing?
Yes. For Windows kernel-mode drivers, you need an EV Code Signing Certificate.
Q5. What if the private key is stolen?
Revoke the certificate immediately and request reissue.
Common Errors & How to Fix Them
❌ “Signature not valid” error:
Check that your certificate is valid, the private key is correct, and timestamping is applied.
❌ Timestamping issues:
Always timestamp to keep your signature valid after expiry.
❌ Hardware token not detected:
Ensure drivers are installed; use compatible USB ports.
❌ Renewal problems:
Start renewal well before expiry to avoid disruptions.
Conclusion
A DigiCert Code Signing Certificate is an essential security tool for developers and publishers who want to protect their software, build user trust, and avoid “Unknown Publisher” warnings.
While cheaper options exist, DigiCert’s global reputation, reliable validation, and strong SmartScreen reputation make it a top choice for organizations serious about secure software distribution.
FAQs
Can I Use DigiCert Code Signing on Multiple Devices?
Yes, you can install your DigiCert Code Signing Certificate on multiple devices. You just need to export the certificate along with its private key and import it on other machines where you want to sign your software. Ensure your private key is kept secure.
What types of software can be signed with DigiCert certificates?
You can sign desktop applications, drivers, scripts, Java programs, and even MacOS apps, making them trusted across multiple platforms.
How much does a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate cost?
Pricing typically starts around $400–$500 per year for Standard certificates and $700–$900 per year for EV certificates. The cost reflects DigiCert’s global reputation, fast validation, and strong platform compatibility
How long does it take to get a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate?
After you submit your order and complete the required identity checks, issuance usually takes a few business days.
Is DigiCert Code Signing Certificate Right for Me?
If you’re distributing software to users or customers and want to ensure your code is trusted, secure, and free from security warnings, a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate is an excellent choice. Whether you’re an individual developer or a large enterprise, it helps enhance your software’s credibility and security.
What is the code signing limit for DigiCert?
There is generally no fixed numerical limit on how many times you can use your DigiCert code signing certificate to sign different files, as long as the certificate is valid and in your possession. However, if you use special DigiCert cloud signing solutions (like KeyLocker), you may encounter signature usage limits based on your subscription or plan. For most developers using a locally stored token or HSM, you can sign as many pieces of code as needed during the certificate’s active period.
Is DigiCert Code Signing Certificate Right for Me?
If you’re distributing software to users or customers and want to ensure your code is trusted, secure, and free from security warnings, a DigiCert Code Signing Certificate is an excellent choice. Whether you’re an individual developer or a large enterprise, it helps enhance your software’s credibility and security
Does Apple use DigiCert?
Apple does not use DigiCert as its certificate authority for software or app distribution. Instead, Apple operates its own certificate system and issues its own certificates for signing Mac and iOS software through the Apple Developer Program.
What websites use DigiCert?
A wide range of websites use DigiCert certificates, including banks, government agencies, healthcare providers, technology companies, e-commerce stores, universities, and global enterprises. You can often spot DigiCert as the certificate authority by checking a website’s security details in your browser. Major brands and high-traffic sites trust DigiCert for their SSL/TLS security and code signing needs.
What is the difference between DigiCert and GlobalSign code signing?
Both DigiCert and GlobalSign are leading providers of code signing certificates, offering similar security and trust for signed software. Key differences often include customer support experience, software tools for managing certificates, available options for storing private keys (hardware tokens, HSMs, and cloud), pricing, and reputation with certain software ecosystems. Some developers may prefer DigiCert for its streamlined validation or strong integration options, while others may choose GlobalSign for specific enterprise features or regional support. Both are highly respected and widely recognized.
