EV Code Signing Vs Regular Code Signing Certificate: What to Choose
The rise in the utilization of smartphones has caused the number of mobile applications to go up. In 2022, there were over 2.5 million applications that could be downloaded from the Google Play Store and around 1.83 million apps on the Apple App Store. It is also possible to download numerous programs from the internet using your computer. Sadly, there are some malicious software that can access user data and use it for unlawful activities. Investigations have found that about 93% of mobile transactions across 20 countries were blocked due to fraud. So, there is an urgent requirement to protect users from this dangerous software that is available online. This is where a Code Signing Certificate can be of help.
It is essential to obtain a Code Signing certificate to guarantee the authenticity and integrity of the code that is being distributed.
With the growing number of online scams and malicious software, it is essential to protect one’s confidential details from cybercriminals. Malware has become more common on the internet. To keep users from downloading potentially hazardous software and becoming victims of hackers, code signing is a useful technique. It lets people identify the source of the software and that it has not been modified since. The user will get a warning if the software they are downloading is from an unidentified creator.
But choosing the right type of code signing certificate is essential for the security of your online applications and software. Extended Validation Code Signing and regular code signing certificates are two popular options that can provide digital signature authentication for your code. But with differences in features and benefits, it can be hard to know which one to choose. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between EV Code Signing and regular code signing certificates, so you can make the best decision for your business.
What is an EV Code Signing Certificate?
EV Code Signing stands for Extended Validation Code Signing Certificate. This type of code signing certificate uses more rigorous identity verification processes than a regular code signing certificate. This means that the certificate provider will perform more thorough due diligence on the certificate owner. During the identity verification process for an EV Code Signing certificate, the certificate provider will verify the legal ownership of the organization and review the organizational structure. They will also verify the physical address where the organization is located. This means that the certificate must include the verified address of the business.
What is a Regular Code Signing Certificate?
A regular code signing certificate is also called Standard Code Signing Certificate, the most common type of code signing certificate. This certificate is ideal for single developers who are building and testing the product in a controlled environment. The certificate provider conducts a less extensive verification of the identity of the certificate owner. This makes the process much faster than the process for an EV Code Signing certificate. A regular code signing certificate is ideal for a small team or individual developer who is building a product or software application in a controlled environment. Because of the less rigorous identity verification process, a code signing certificate can be issued much faster than an EV Code Signing certificate.
Comparing EV Code Signing and Regular Code Signing Certificates
When you compare EV Code Signing and regular code signing certificates, you will notice a few key differences. Both types of certificates provide digital signatures for software applications and code. However, EV Code Signing certificates require a more thorough verification of the identity of the certificate owner. This means that the verification process is more rigorous and takes longer to complete. As a result, EV Code Signing certificates cost more than regular code signing certificates. The other significant difference between the two types of certificates is their verification requirements. An EV Code Signing certificate requires a trusted seal that identifies the certificate as authentic. The seal must be verified by a third party. This seal ensures that the certificate is legitimate. A regular code signing certificate does not require a third party verified seal. This makes it easier to use and less costly.
Benefits of EV (Extended Validation) Code Signing
The benefits of EV Code Signing versus regular code signing certificates are based on the differences discussed above. Because EV Code Signing Certificates require a more thorough verification of the certificate owner, they offer more security than regular code signing certificates. This enhanced security makes it more difficult for hackers to use stolen certificates for malicious purposes. With the more stringent identity verification process, it’s also likely that the certificate owner will be more trustworthy. This means there is less risk to your organization if the certificate owner is compromised. Another advantage of an EV Code Signing certificate is that most certificate providers will provide a free certificate. This is often the case with regular code signing certificates as well, but there is no guarantee.
Advantages of an EV Code Signing Certificate
The advantages of an EV Code Signing certificate are clear. It provides superior security, and the identity verification process is more rigorous. With a more trustworthy certificate owner, there is less risk that the certificate will be misused. Most certificate providers will also provide a free certificate for an EV Code Signing certificate. This means that despite the higher upfront costs, there is minimal difference in the total cost. Another important advantage of an EV Code Signing certificate is the ease of use. Because the certificate provider will verify the organization and physical address, the certificate can be used for more applications. Regular code signing certificates don’t include the physical address of the business. This means that the certificate is less trustworthy and can be used for fewer applications.
Advantages of a Regular Code Signing Certificate
The main advantage of a regular code signing certificate is the lower cost. Because the process is less rigorous, the authentication process is quicker, and the certificate can be issued faster. This means that you will have access to a regular code signing certificate much sooner than an EV Code Signing certificate. This type of certificate is ideal for a small team or individual developer who is building a product or software application in a controlled environment. It’s also the most common type of code signing certificate, making it more accessible. Regular code signing certificates don’t require a trusted seal. This means that it’s easier to use the certificate now and not worry about obtaining a trusted seal in the future.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of code signing certificate is essential for the security of your online applications and software. EV Code Signing and regular code signing certificates are two popular options that can provide digital signature authentication for your code. But with differences in features and benefits, it can be hard to know which one to choose. The main difference between the two types of certificates is that EV Code Signing certificates require a more rigorous identity verification.
This makes them more secure and trustworthy. There are also some significant advantages to an EV Code Signing certificate. It’s easier to use, less costly, and available quicker than a regular code signing certificate. With a regular code signing certificate, the identity verification process is less rigorous. There are also some significant advantages to a regular code signing certificate. The certificate is easier to use, and it’s available sooner. Choosing the right code signing certificate is essential for the security of your online applications and software.
