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Best Windows Code Signing Certificates to Secure Your Software

/ by Ava Taylor

Your software is brilliant—clean, smooth, and powerful. But before it goes out into the wild, you need to make sure people trust it. That’s where Windows Code Signing Certificates come in. They tell Windows and your users, “Hey, this is safe!”

TL;DR:

A Windows Code Signing Certificate helps secure your app and builds user trust. It stops those scary warning popups and shows your name as the verified publisher. We break down the best options below. Pick one that fits your budget and gets your software safely into your users’ hands.

Why Code Signing Matters

Every time someone downloads your app, Windows checks if it’s legit. If your app isn’t signed, users will see a big scary warning saying the file is untrusted. Not good.

Code signing adds a digital signature to your software. This signature tells Windows and antivirus software that the app hasn’t been messed with. It’s like a virtual wax seal on a letter—proof that it came straight from you.

Top Benefits of Using a Code Signing Certificate

  • Builds Trust: Your name shows up as the verified publisher when someone installs the app.
  • Better Security: Confirms the file isn’t altered or corrupted.
  • Fewer Warnings: No more “Unknown Publisher” alerts popping up.
  • Required for EV Trust: Extended Validation (EV) Certificates help skip SmartScreen warnings.

Best Windows Code Signing Certificates in 2024

Let’s check out the top providers. These are the companies developers trust around the world.

1. DigiCert

Best for: Big companies and mission-critical apps

  • Known for high trust and top-tier security
  • Offers both Standard and EV code signing
  • Automatic timestamping to prevent re-signing in the future
  • Excellent customer support (like, actual humans!)

Price: $$$ – It’s premium, but worth it if you’re serious.

2. Sectigo (formerly Comodo)

Best for: Developers on a budget

  • Affordable without skimping on features
  • Easy setup and integration with build tools
  • Option for EV Certificates to reduce SmartScreen warnings

Price: $ – Great value while still doing the job well.

3. Thawte

Best for: Global distribution

  • Strong presence in international markets
  • Simple, clean dashboard for managing certificates
  • Supports Windows, MacOS, and Java apps too

Price: $$ – Mid-range but solid service.

4. GoDaddy

Best for: Those already using GoDaddy services

  • Simple if you’re already set up with their platform
  • Backed by a popular name (even non-tech folks know them!)
  • Reputable support and good documentation

Price: $$ – A solid pick if you’re comfortable in the GoDaddy ecosystem.

5. GlobalSign

Best for: Enterprise-level volume licenses

  • Super strong reputation in security and encryption world
  • EV options make it great for eliminating SmartScreen errors
  • API available for developers to automate signing

Price: $$$ – Best suited for high-volume app development teams.

Standard vs EV Code Signing: What’s the Difference?

Standard Code Signing:

  • Adds your signature and shows your name
  • Trusted once your reputation builds up
  • May still trigger SmartScreen Filter warnings early on

EV (Extended Validation) Code Signing:

  • Uses strict vetting before issuance
  • Immediate trust from Windows SmartScreen Filter
  • Signature stored in a hardware token (which adds extra security)

If you want fewer user interruptions, go for EV certificates. Yes, they’re more expensive. But the boost in trust and user experience is worth it.

What About Free Certificates?

Sorry to break it to you—Windows Code Signing Certificates aren’t free. Some platforms, like Let’s Encrypt, offer free SSL certificates for websites, but that doesn’t apply here.

You need to go through a proper Certificate Authority (CA) to get verified. Windows wants to make sure you’re legit before handing over that “trusted publisher” badge.

How to Get a Code Signing Certificate

Here’s what the basic process looks like:

  1. Pick a provider (like DigiCert, Sectigo, etc.)
  2. Submit some identity paperwork (business docs or government ID)
  3. Wait a few days while the CA verifies you
  4. Download and install the certificate
  5. Sign your app using tools like signtool or via your build platform

Use it once, and you’ll never want to ship unsigned code again.

Pro Tips for Smooth Code Signing

  • Timestamp your code: So it stays valid even after the certificate expires
  • Use a secure USB token: Especially for EV Certificates—don’t store credentials on your PC
  • Automate signing: Integrate code signing into your CI/CD pipeline to save time

Final Thoughts

A Code Signing Certificate is your digital identity. It tells users, “I built this, and it’s safe to use.” With so much malware floating around the internet, users need that assurance.

Don’t let your software trigger red flags. A good certificate removes doubt and adds professionalism.

Compare the options, pick the one that suits your needs, and sign your code like a pro!

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