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Code Signing Automation: Secure Software Signing Without Worries

Do you need to automate software signing in your development process? We offer an overview of three secure and modern solutions that can be easily integrated into your CI/CD pipeline – whether you're using HSM, DigiCert cloud services, or enterprise key management tools.

Digital Code Signing is a Must, but it Needs to Be Automated

Digital software signing is essential for user trust and protection against unauthorized code modifications. With the rise of DevOps and CI/CD processes, there's a growing demand for Code Signing automation – signing software without manual intervention. SSLmarket offers three modern and secure ways to achieve this.

SSLmarket offers you three perfect options for Code Signing automation:

Below, we introduce the individual options for code signing automation and their key advantages.

Certificate Stored on HSM (e.g., Azure Key Vault)

Storing a code signing certificate on a Hardware Security Module (HSM) is a classic but still very secure solution. In the case of using Azure Key Vault (or another cloud HSM), the certificate is stored in a highly secure environment accessible only by authorized processes.

Advantages:

  • Security First: The private key never leaves the HSM and is protected against export.
  • Integration with Azure DevOps and other CI/CD tools: Signing can be easily integrated into the build pipeline.
  • Flexibility: Support for various cloud HSM solutions (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud).

This option is suitable for teams already working in the cloud and looking for a fully automated, yet self-controlled solution.

More about using a code signing certificate with Azure HSM can be found in the article Code Signing with Azure Key Vault.

DigiCert KeyLocker

DigiCert KeyLocker is a cloud service specifically designed for securely storing and using code signing certificates. KeyLocker offers centralized key management and supports their use within build processes.

Advantages:

  • Quick Deployment Without the Need for HSM: Everything runs in the cloud under DigiCert's management.
  • Easy Integration: Supports tools like Jenkins, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions.
  • High Security: Certificates are protected in compliance with CA/B forum requirements.

KeyLocker is an ideal choice for developers and small teams who want to automate signing without unnecessary infrastructure investment.

Details about DigiCert KeyLocker can be found in its product detail.

DigiCert Software Trust Manager

For companies with extensive development teams and complex release processes, there's the DigiCert Software Trust Manager (STM). It is a comprehensive platform for managing the entire lifecycle of code signing certificates – from request, through approval, to signing.

Advantages:

  • Centralized Signing Management: Roles, permissions, approval processes, and audit records.
  • Enterprise-Level Automation: Direct integration with CI/CD tools and build servers.
  • Support for All Major Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile apps, and IoT firmware.

Software Trust Manager is a solution for corporations that emphasize access management, auditability, and adherence to internal security policies.

More information about DigiCert Software Trust Manager can be found in its product detail.

Conclusion

Automating software signing increases both security and development efficiency. Whether you opt for a simple HSM in your cloud, the comfortable DigiCert KeyLocker, or the robust Software Trust Manager, SSLmarket will assist you in implementation.

If you're unsure which option is best for you, contact us – we will be happy to assist you with selection and technical integration.

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