Code Signing Certificate Validation Requirements

Code Signing Certificate Validation Requirements

Nobody wants to download something that will affect their computer negatively and the browsers are well aware of this. That's why they've gone out of their way to generate warning messages anytime someone attempts to download something that may not come from a trustworthy source.

To software developers and engineers, these messages can mean the difference between someone adopting your software and someone cancelling the download. And those cancellations are bad for your business. So how do you become a trustworthy source? How do you prevent those messages and alerts from popping up before someone attempts to download your software or code?

What is Code Signing?

Code Signing certificates allow you to sign a piece of software or code and essentially prove where it came from and that it's trustworthy. This is done with a unique digital signature, which tells the browser who made the software and that it hasn't been tampered with by a third party. More information can be found in our What is Code Signing? How Does Work? article.

How do I get Verified?

The two different Code Signing certificates come with different processes for verification. But one thing remains the same, the Certificate Authority (CA) that is issuing the certificate is going to want to make sure that you are legitimate. This allows them to authenticate you. Keep in mind, by issuing this certificate, one that will be recognized by browsers and will disable those annoying alerts and warnings, thus making you appear trusted. The CA is essentially vouching for your legitimacy. This means it's in their best interest to make sure you check out and that you ARE actually legitimate.

That's why there's a fairly extensive process in place to validate you or your organization.

But don't worry. If you are indeed a legitimate developer or company, this process isn't painful. And it can be finished rather quickly. Just keep in mind, it's in place to weed out the imitators and to protect consumers.

Organizational Validation

Required requirements for organization verification are::

  • Organization Authentication
  • Locality Presence
  • Telephone Verification
  • Final Verification Call

Individual Validation

Validation is a little different because you're not proving that you're a company, rather you're a single developer that must prove your identity to the CA. The way this is accomplished varies slightly between Certificate Authorities. We'll go into how in each section, but for now, just know there are essentially three different requirements.

  • Identity Verification
  • Telephone Verification
  • Final Verification Call

How these requirements will be met may vary depending on CA. But all Certificate Authorities are trying to confirm the same thing: that you are a legitimate software developer and that your code can be trusted.

Let's Begin!

This process is straightforward and an absolute must for any company or who develops software. So what are you waiting for? You can let's get started by reviewing our Code Signing Certifiacates :)

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