Quick Overview
- 1#1: DigiCert Code Signing - Provides trusted code signing certificates with automated signing services, HSM integration, and enterprise-grade security for software binaries.
- 2#2: Sectigo Code Signing - Offers affordable code signing certificates and CodeGuard for automated, secure signing of executables and installers.
- 3#3: GlobalSign Code Signing - Delivers high-assurance code signing solutions with timestamping and integration for developers signing software globally.
- 4#4: SSL.com Code Signing - Supplies EV and standard code signing certificates with cloud-based eSigner for secure, hardware-protected signing.
- 5#5: SignPath - Cloud-based code signing service that protects private keys in HSMs and integrates seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines.
- 6#6: Microsoft SignTool - Free command-line utility included in Windows SDK for digitally signing PE executables, drivers, and MSI packages.
- 7#7: Entrust Code Signing - Enterprise code signing certificates with advanced key management and protection for software authenticity.
- 8#8: osslsigncode - Open-source tool for creating Authenticode-compatible signatures on PE, Mach-O, and other binary formats using PKCS#7.
- 9#9: Apple codesign - Command-line tool for signing macOS, iOS, and Darwin binaries with Developer ID or ad-hoc certificates.
- 10#10: jarsigner - Java standard tool for generating and verifying digital signatures on JAR files and other Java archives.
These tools were chosen for their robust security features, seamless integration with development workflows, user-friendly design, and strong value, catering to needs from large-scale enterprises to individual developers.
Comparison Table
Understanding the right digital signing software is crucial for securing and authenticating digital content, and this table compares top tools like DigiCert Code Signing, Sectigo, GlobalSign, SSL.com, SignPath, and more. By exploring features, pricing, and usability across these options, readers can quickly identify the best fit for their needs, whether for code signing, document verification, or broader security workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DigiCert Code Signing Provides trusted code signing certificates with automated signing services, HSM integration, and enterprise-grade security for software binaries. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | Sectigo Code Signing Offers affordable code signing certificates and CodeGuard for automated, secure signing of executables and installers. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 3 | GlobalSign Code Signing Delivers high-assurance code signing solutions with timestamping and integration for developers signing software globally. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | SSL.com Code Signing Supplies EV and standard code signing certificates with cloud-based eSigner for secure, hardware-protected signing. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | SignPath Cloud-based code signing service that protects private keys in HSMs and integrates seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Microsoft SignTool Free command-line utility included in Windows SDK for digitally signing PE executables, drivers, and MSI packages. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.0/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 7 | Entrust Code Signing Enterprise code signing certificates with advanced key management and protection for software authenticity. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | osslsigncode Open-source tool for creating Authenticode-compatible signatures on PE, Mach-O, and other binary formats using PKCS#7. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 4.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 9 | Apple codesign Command-line tool for signing macOS, iOS, and Darwin binaries with Developer ID or ad-hoc certificates. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 4.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | jarsigner Java standard tool for generating and verifying digital signatures on JAR files and other Java archives. | specialized | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 4.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Provides trusted code signing certificates with automated signing services, HSM integration, and enterprise-grade security for software binaries.
Offers affordable code signing certificates and CodeGuard for automated, secure signing of executables and installers.
Delivers high-assurance code signing solutions with timestamping and integration for developers signing software globally.
Supplies EV and standard code signing certificates with cloud-based eSigner for secure, hardware-protected signing.
Cloud-based code signing service that protects private keys in HSMs and integrates seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines.
Free command-line utility included in Windows SDK for digitally signing PE executables, drivers, and MSI packages.
Enterprise code signing certificates with advanced key management and protection for software authenticity.
Open-source tool for creating Authenticode-compatible signatures on PE, Mach-O, and other binary formats using PKCS#7.
Command-line tool for signing macOS, iOS, and Darwin binaries with Developer ID or ad-hoc certificates.
Java standard tool for generating and verifying digital signatures on JAR files and other Java archives.
DigiCert Code Signing
enterpriseProvides trusted code signing certificates with automated signing services, HSM integration, and enterprise-grade security for software binaries.
EV Code Signing certificates that display the verified publisher name directly in Windows File Explorer and installer dialogs.
DigiCert Code Signing is a premier solution for digitally signing software executables, drivers, and scripts to verify authenticity and integrity, preventing security warnings on platforms like Windows. It offers Standard and EV Code Signing certificates from a globally trusted root CA, ensuring maximum user trust and compliance with industry standards. The platform integrates with development tools and supports hardware security modules (HSMs) for enhanced security.
Pros
- Unmatched trust from DigiCert's root CA status, widely recognized by OS vendors
- EV Code Signing for publisher verification and highest assurance levels
- Automated lifecycle management via CertCentral platform with HSM support
Cons
- Premium pricing higher than budget alternatives
- Hardware token or HSM required for optimal security setups
- Renewal process involves identity vetting which can take time
Best For
Enterprise developers and organizations needing top-tier compliance, trust, and automation for high-volume software signing.
Pricing
Standard certificates from $399/year; EV from $499/year; multi-year and volume discounts available.
Sectigo Code Signing
enterpriseOffers affordable code signing certificates and CodeGuard for automated, secure signing of executables and installers.
Remote Signing Service for secure, token-free code signing via HSM-protected cloud infrastructure
Sectigo Code Signing provides digital certificates for signing executables, drivers, scripts, and other software artifacts to verify authenticity and integrity, preventing security warnings on platforms like Windows. It offers OV and EV code signing options, with support for multi-year validity periods and hardware security modules (HSMs) for secure key storage. Developers can use USB tokens for self-signing or opt for Sectigo's remote signing service to upload and receive signed files without managing hardware.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Robust support for EV certificates and timestamping
- Flexible remote signing service eliminates hardware needs
Cons
- Hardware tokens required for self-signing options
- Customer support response times can vary
- Portal interface feels dated compared to newer rivals
Best For
Software developers and publishers seeking cost-effective, reliable code signing for Windows and cross-platform applications.
Pricing
OV Code Signing starts at $179/year; EV from $299/year; multi-year plans offer up to 50% discounts.
GlobalSign Code Signing
enterpriseDelivers high-assurance code signing solutions with timestamping and integration for developers signing software globally.
Extended Validation (EV) Code Signing with malware scanning, providing the highest assurance level and green bar trust indicators in Windows
GlobalSign Code Signing offers digital certificates specifically designed for signing executables, drivers, scripts, and applications to ensure their authenticity and integrity. It prevents security warnings on platforms like Windows and macOS, while complying with industry standards such as SHA-256 and timestamping requirements. Available in Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) variants, it integrates with popular tools like SignTool, Jarsigner, and hardware security modules.
Pros
- Trusted root certificates recognized by all major OS vendors
- EV options for maximum user trust and malware scanning
- Supports multi-year certificates (up to 3 years) and automated timestamping
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to budget alternatives
- Lengthy vetting process for EV certificates
- Limited free trials or low-volume developer perks
Best For
Enterprise software developers and organizations distributing signed code globally who prioritize compliance and high-assurance validation.
Pricing
Standard OV starts at ~$499/year; EV at ~$1,199/year; multi-year discounts available, with volume pricing for enterprises.
SSL.com Code Signing
enterpriseSupplies EV and standard code signing certificates with cloud-based eSigner for secure, hardware-protected signing.
EV certificates delivered on FIPS 140-2 compliant hardware security tokens for optimal private key protection
SSL.com Code Signing offers digital certificates for signing software executables, scripts, drivers, and applications to verify authenticity and integrity, preventing security warnings during installation. It provides both standard and EV (Extended Validation) options, with multi-year validity periods up to three years and built-in timestamping support. The service integrates seamlessly with tools like Microsoft SignTool, JARSigner, and others, catering to developers building trust with users.
Pros
- EV Code Signing for enhanced trust and no warnings on Windows
- Multi-year certificates with competitive pricing
- Hardware token delivery for secure private key storage
Cons
- Lengthy vetting process for EV certificates (up to 10 business days)
- Requires physical hardware token for EV, adding shipping costs
- Limited automation in certificate management compared to some competitors
Best For
Software developers and publishers distributing enterprise or high-trust applications needing EV code signing compliance.
Pricing
Standard: $80-$270 (1-3 years); EV: $250-$720 (1-3 years), with volume discounts available.
SignPath
enterpriseCloud-based code signing service that protects private keys in HSMs and integrates seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines.
Remote signing with keys stored exclusively in eIDAS-qualified HSMs, guaranteeing zero exposure and full regulatory compliance.
SignPath is a cloud-based code signing as a service (CaaS) platform designed for secure digital signing of software artifacts like executables, drivers, and firmware. It protects private signing keys in remote Hardware Security Modules (HSMs), ensuring keys never leave the secure environment and eliminating the need for customers to manage them. The service supports standards like Authenticode, JarSigner, and eIDAS-qualified signatures, with seamless API integration for CI/CD automation.
Pros
- Unmatched key security with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 HSMs and eIDAS QSCD compliance
- Broad support for code signing formats and automated workflows via API
- Streamlined compliance for global regulations without local HSM setup
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small teams or low-volume signers
- Focused primarily on code signing, less ideal for general document signing
- Initial API integration requires developer familiarity
Best For
Mid-to-enterprise development teams requiring highly secure, compliant code signing integrated into CI/CD pipelines.
Pricing
Subscription plans from €99/month (Starter) to custom Enterprise; pay-per-signature from €0.10, with volume discounts.
Microsoft SignTool
specializedFree command-line utility included in Windows SDK for digitally signing PE executables, drivers, and MSI packages.
Advanced support for page hashing and OEM dual-signing, essential for signing kernel-mode drivers securely.
Microsoft SignTool is a robust command-line utility from Microsoft, included in the Windows SDK, designed for digitally signing executables, drivers, scripts, and catalogs using Authenticode technology. It supports signing with X.509 certificates from various stores, timestamping with RFC 3161 servers, signature verification, and advanced options like page hashing for kernel-mode drivers. Widely used in enterprise and developer environments, it ensures software integrity and trust on Windows platforms.
Pros
- Completely free with no licensing costs
- Extensive command-line options for Authenticode, dual-signing, and catalog signing
- Deep integration with Windows certificate stores and hardware security modules
Cons
- Strictly command-line interface with no native GUI
- Requires installation of Windows SDK or standalone download
- Steep learning curve due to complex syntax and parameters
Best For
Windows developers and IT professionals experienced with command-line tools who require reliable, standards-compliant digital signing for binaries and drivers.
Pricing
Free; available as part of the Windows SDK or standalone download.
Entrust Code Signing
enterpriseEnterprise code signing certificates with advanced key management and protection for software authenticity.
Integrated HSM and cloud-based eSigner service for secure, scalable code signing without local hardware management
Entrust Code Signing provides enterprise-grade digital certificates for signing executables, drivers, scripts, and other software to ensure authenticity, integrity, and trusted distribution. It offers OV and EV code signing certificates from a globally recognized CA, with support for secure key management via HSMs or cloud-based services. The solution integrates seamlessly with development tools like Visual Studio, SignTool, and CI/CD pipelines for automated signing workflows.
Pros
- EV certificates for highest trust levels with publisher name display
- Robust HSM and cloud key protection options
- Strong compliance with global standards and timestamping support
Cons
- High pricing geared toward enterprises
- Complex setup for individual developers
- Limited free trial or starter options
Best For
Large enterprises and software vendors needing high-assurance, compliant code signing with advanced security integrations.
Pricing
Starts at around $500/year for OV certificates, $800+ for EV; multi-year subscriptions and volume discounts available for enterprises.
osslsigncode
specializedOpen-source tool for creating Authenticode-compatible signatures on PE, Mach-O, and other binary formats using PKCS#7.
Cross-platform PE signing from non-Windows environments using OpenSSL
osslsigncode is an open-source command-line tool for digitally signing Windows Portable Executable (PE) files, such as EXEs and DLLs, using CMS/PKCS#7 signatures with OpenSSL. It serves as a cross-platform alternative to Microsoft's signtool.exe, supporting timestamping, dual-signing, and hardware security modules on Windows, Linux, and macOS. Primarily aimed at developers needing scriptable signing workflows without proprietary dependencies.
Pros
- Cross-platform support for signing Windows binaries from Linux/macOS
- Full Authenticode compatibility including timestamping and countersignatures
- Lightweight and free with no licensing restrictions
Cons
- Command-line only with no graphical interface
- Steep learning curve requiring OpenSSL and certificate management knowledge
- Limited built-in documentation and community support compared to commercial tools
Best For
DevOps engineers and open-source developers needing a scriptable, cross-platform tool for Authenticode signing of Windows executables.
Pricing
Completely free (open-source under BSD license)
Apple codesign
specializedCommand-line tool for signing macOS, iOS, and Darwin binaries with Developer ID or ad-hoc certificates.
Native hardened runtime and entitlements enforcement for Gatekeeper compliance
Apple codesign is a command-line utility integrated into macOS and Xcode for digitally signing executables, bundles, frameworks, and installers on Apple platforms. It attaches developer identity certificates to code, ensuring authenticity, integrity, and compliance with Apple's security requirements like Gatekeeper and notarization. Essential for macOS and iOS app distribution, it supports entitlements, hardened runtime, and universal binaries for Intel and Apple Silicon architectures.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Xcode, Keychain, and Apple's notarization pipeline
- Comprehensive support for entitlements, hardened runtime, and multi-architecture signing
- Highly secure with hardware-backed key storage and SIP protections
Cons
- Command-line only with complex syntax and verbose options
- macOS-exclusive, no cross-platform support
- Requires paid Apple Developer Program for production certificates
Best For
Experienced Apple developers distributing macOS/iOS apps who need robust, ecosystem-native signing.
Pricing
Free tool included with macOS/Xcode; signing certificates require Apple Developer Program ($99/year).
jarsigner
specializedJava standard tool for generating and verifying digital signatures on JAR files and other Java archives.
Native integration with Java keystores (JKS/PKCS12) for secure key management without third-party dependencies
Jarsigner is a command-line tool included in Oracle's Java Development Kit (JDK) specifically designed for digitally signing and verifying JAR (Java Archive) files using public-key cryptography. It enables developers to attach digital signatures from Java keystores to JAR files, ensuring authenticity, integrity, and tamper detection during distribution. While robust for Java applications, it lacks support for other file formats and requires familiarity with Java ecosystem tools like keytool.
Pros
- Completely free as part of the JDK
- Seamless integration with Java keystores and keytool
- Supports timestamping and multi-signature verification
Cons
- Command-line only with no GUI
- Limited exclusively to JAR files
- Steep learning curve for non-Java developers
Best For
Java developers who need a reliable, no-cost tool for signing JAR files in enterprise or open-source projects.
Pricing
Free; included with Oracle JDK downloads.
Conclusion
DigiCert Code Signing emerges as the top pick, boasting trusted certificates, automated services, and enterprise-grade security. Sectigo Code Signing follows with affordable pricing and CodeGuard for streamlined, secure signing, while GlobalSign Code Signing completes the top three, offering high-assurance solutions with global integration. Each tool excels in distinct areas, ensuring a strong option exists for diverse needs, from strict security requirements to budget-friendly pricing.
Take the first step toward secure software signing by trying DigiCert Code Signing, the leading choice for reliable digital signatures.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison