Different systems require different types of authentications. What works on a desktop is likely unsuitable for mobile systems and vice versa. Here are a few examples of the different certificates for both desktop and mobile software.
Desktop Certificates:
- Microsoft
- Java
- Microsoft Office and VBA
- Adobe AI
Mobile Certificates:
- Windows Phone
- Windows Phone Private Enterprise
- Java Verified
- Android
- Brew
If you’re looking to sign and secure your software, you should first know what kind of software or system you are starting with and work from there.
What is the Use of a Digital Certificate?
A digital certificate is intended to give an identity to the software or code you’re publishing to your users. With a digital certificate, users can authenticate the software publisher. These digital certificates also inspire users’ trust in publishers because they are issued by certificate authorities. Digital certificates are also extremely useful for software publishers because they allow the publishers to track their software and track how many copies are downloaded.
How Long is a Digital Certificate Valid?
Another common question for those looking to get their own digital code signing certificate is how long a certificate is valid. Although the exact time frame can vary, depending on the issuer, digital certificates are typically only valid for a year or two.
This validity is short for a couple of reasons:
- Increased Security: Security certificates and private keys can and do get compromised. Renewing and changing certificates every year or two renders any previous certificates invalid—even those that have been stolen.
- Changing Technology: The world changes fast, and technology changes even faster. What was secure 5 years ago isn’t nearly as secure today. Changing code signing certificates and updating them helps ensure the certificate security is up to date.
- Revenue: A short time frame for renewal means guaranteed revenue for the certificate authority.
Learn more about machine identity security, and how it can benefit your organization!
