How Much Does a Code Signing Certificate Cost?

As the internet grows more complex, the need for security measures has increased. Code signing certificates are an important digital tool for ensuring the safety of software downloads and web applications. These software security certificates digitally sign code, verifying its authenticity and preventing altering. However, many people are unsure of the cost of code signing certificates.

In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the cost of code signing certificates and provide an overview of the average prices for different types of code sign certificates.

What is a Code Signing Certificate?

A code signing certificate is a digital signing certificate that is used to sign a code. When a code is signed, the certificate embeds a unique digital signature that verifies the authenticity of the software and its content. It helps prevent tampering or hacking of the software, ensuring that the software can be trusted by the end user. Code signing certificates are commonly used for software downloads, updates, exe files, and web applications.

Types of Code Signing Certificates

There are different types of code signing certificates available from certificate authorities (CA). The two main types are ov code signing certificates and EV code signing certificates. Regular code sign certificates are used for signing code for general use, while EV certificates are used for signing code for high-risk applications, such as banking or e-commerce websites. EV code sign certs provide an added layer of the hardware security token, requiring the certificate authority to perform additional verification steps before issuing the certificate.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Code Signing Certificates

Several security and validation factors affect the cost of code signing certificates. The type of certificate, the length of validity, and the level of authentication required all impact the code signing price. Generally, EV certificates are more expensive than normal certificates, as they require more verification and provide additional security. The length of validity can also impact the price, with longer validity periods resulting in the lowest prices.

Average Cost of Code Signing Certificates

The cost of code signing certificates varies depending on the type of certificate and the provider. However, in general, standard code signing certificates can range from $50 per year, while EV code sign certificates can cost anywhere from $199 to $399 per year. Prices can also vary based on the validity periods, validation method, and the vendor discount.

How to Choose a Code Signing Certificate

When choosing a code signing certificate, it is important to select a reputable certificate authority such as Comodo, Sectigo, and DigiCert. Look for code sign providers that have a strong reputation for security, validation process, and customer support. Consider the level of authentication required for your application and choose a certificate that meets your needs without unnecessary costs. It is also important to choose a certificate that is compatible with your development platform.