Developers who sell or exchange software can protect their code and their
reputations by using code-signing certificates. Code-signing certificates
create X.509 data files called “signatures” that developers can attach to
their software files. The signature disappears from the software if anyone
(including the developer) alters the code.
The digital signature functions as tamper-proof packaging for intangible
files exchanged on the Internet; absence of packaging signals a quality
problem.
Code-signing certificates protect end users who purchase software from
unfamiliar developers, or who download it from open sources. Major browsers
now check for code-signing certificates when Internet users download
software; if the software is unsigned, the browser shows the Internet user a
warning message.
By the same token, code-signing certificates protect developers. Software
that appears to come from an honest developer might have been altered to
delete important files once installed, or to cause similar problems. The
digital signature verifies that the file does, indeed, come unaltered from
the developer, and that it has not been changed.
Code-signing certificates can be especially useful for open-source
developers, posting their software on bulletin boards for anyone to use or
modify. Such developers build reputations based on the quality of their
software; their digital signatures prove that the posted software is truly
theirs.
Code-signing certificates are available for terms of one to three years,
and may be used to sign as many files as a developer can produce during that
span.
For more information about code-signing certificates, visit
http://www.instantssl.com/code-signing/code-signing.html
About Comodo
Comodo is a leading brand in Internet security, covering an extensive
range of security software and services, including digital certificates, PCI
scanning, desktop security, online faxing, and computer technical support
services.
Businesses and consumers worldwide recognize Comodo as standing for
security and trust. Comodo products secure and authenticate online
transactions for over 200,000 businesses and have more than 18,000,000
installations of Comodo desktop security software, including an
award-winning firewall and antivirus software offered at no charge.
The Comodo family of companies is committed to continual innovation, core
competencies in PKI, authentication, and malware detection and prevention.
As a catalyst in eliminating online crime, the companies' mission is to
establish a Trusted Internet.
With US headquarters overlooking Manhattan on New Jersey's waterfront,
and global resources in United Kingdom, China, India, Ukraine, and Romania,
Comodo products offer intelligent security, authentication, and assurance.
Comodo -- Creating Trust Online®. For more information, visit
Comodo's website.
=======
Katharine Hadow COMODO Media Relations
