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.
