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Security Fundamentals & Crypto · Intermediate

Code Signing Certificate

Certificate used to digitally sign software so users can verify its publisher and integrity.

Definition

Code signing proves the software came from the named publisher and was not altered after signing. Since 2023, CA/Browser Forum rules require code signing private keys to be stored in hardware such as an HSM or token. Stolen code signing keys are prized by attackers for signing malware.

Example

signtool sign /fd SHA256 /tr http://timestamp.example.com /td SHA256 app.exe signs and timestamps a Windows executable.

Exam tip

Code signing provides integrity and authenticity, not proof the code is safe.

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