Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual certificate
In the era of modern "vibecoding", where AI tools allow virtually anyone to create a functional application, creativity is hitting increasingly strict barriers imposed by operating systems. Microsoft has been significantly tightening security within Windows. While an unsigned executable EXE file used to trigger a warning, today mechanisms such as Defender SmartScreen and especially the strict Smart App Control in Windows 11 make it practically impossible to run. For independent developers and hobby programmers, software signing is becoming a necessity. It is the only way to build a digital reputation, avoid being blocked by operating systems, and ensure that an application is not considered a threat immediately after downloading.
The solution is the most affordable Certum Individual Code Signing in the Cloud - a signing certificate stored in secure cloud storage. This CODE certificate at a great price has the same features as the business Certum Cloud CODE Signing certificate.
- removal of "unknown publisher" warnings, end of immediate blocking
- the certificate contains a personal name (CN/Organization), City, Region and Country
- easy SW signing using Microsoft SignTool
- trusted European certification authority
- before ordering, please read our detailed guide on SimplySign and the detailed FAQ
CODE Signing Certificate Individual Developer
The Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual certificate is intended exclusively for individual software creators and cannot be ordered by a company (the invoice will be issued only to the name and address, without any other details). It's the cheapest CODE signing for personal use. The CODE certificate is stored in the cloud and using SimplySign applications offers convenient software signing from anywhere with internet access. The SimplySign app and SimplySign Desktop are available free of charge. The Microsoft SignTool software used for code signing is also free.
The certification authority must verify the applicant before issuing a CODE certificate. What are the verification requirements?
- online verification of the applicant (photo of an identity document, face scan)
- address confirmation - submission of an electricity/gas or internet bill
- submission of additional documents as required by the CA validation team
Prices
The price includes: obtaining an SSL certificate, basic technical support for the order
Multi-year - The final multi-year price is given in parentheses.
Based on the new standards, CODE certificates are issued with a maximum validity of 460 days. For multi-year CODE certificates, one or more REISSUEs will be required to use the entire period.
Payment - We accept payments by card, PayPal and bank transfer.
For payments in EUR, please switch above to EUR → [ $ | € ].
Features and Benefits of Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual certificates
Application security
A Code Signing Certificate maintains code integrity and prevents your name from being misused to distribute counterfeit software or modify code.
Distribution support
Signed applications help increase download numbers and sales revenue. Increased trust helps expand distribution channels for your software.
Customer confidence
Signed software protects customers from malware and other malicious threats. A digital signature protects and reassures customers that the integrity of the code they have downloaded is ensured and that the program is intact, not damaged, or altered in any way. Increased trust promotes better user perception of the application.
Authenticity
After downloading, the user has the certainty that the code obtained actually comes from you as the software creator. Code Signing Certificates allow customers to identify the author of a digitally signed code and confirm that the program comes from the expected publisher.
Seamless integration
The offered Code Signing certificates can be used for Windows and MacOS operating systems without any problems. All certification authorities work with companies such as Microsoft or Apple and follow their recommendations and policies for issuing certificates according to the CA/Browser Forum.
30 Days Money Back Guarantee
Customer experience is the first and foremost priority for us. The selected SSL certificate is not suitable for your needs? Do you want another one? Or do you just want to cancel the order? We offer 30 Days Money Back Guarantee for all our customers. Check out our Refund Policy to know more.
SSLmentor recommendation
The Certum INDIVIDUAL Code Signing in the Cloud is the most affordable CODE certificate designed for individual developers from a quality European certification authority.
More information about Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual
What you should know before you place an order.
Individual CODE Certificate
The authority must verify the identity of the person
Validation of a CODE certificate applicant is carried out based on the validation standards set by the CA/B Forum.
Requirements and validation process
- Online contact verification (identity document and face scan).
Validation is performed using Automatic identity verification. - Address confirmation: a utility bill (gas, electricity, water, phone, etc.) issued to the subscriber. Or a rental agreement — only if the residential address is not stated on the identity document.
- Any further communication with the validation team, if required.
More information about CODE certificate verification can be found at support.certum.eu: Code Signing - required documents.
Note: When applying for a CODE certificate, we recommend also checking the spam folder, where some emails may end up.
How long it takes to get the Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual certificate
The certification authority performs basic verification
Issuance time for CODE certificate: 3+ business days
The issuance time is directly proportional to the delivery of the necessary documents for successful validation.
Renewing your certificate
You need to renew Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual certificate before it expires
We recommend to start renewing an expiring SSL certificate approx. 30 days before it expires. Renewing a CODE certificate is practically like applying for a new one and is therefore no faster. If you need to continue signing on an expiring certificate, definitely don't leave renewal to the last minute.
You can renew your Certum Cloud CODE Signing Individual certificate with us without any problem even if you originally ordered it from another supplier. We always have better prices than the certification authority!
Microsoft SmartScreen
The security guard in the Windows ecosystem
For more information see What is Windows SmartScreen?
Time Stamping Server
Time Stamp Server & Stamping Protocols for Code Signing
RFC3161 compliant Time Stamp Authority (TSA) server: http://time.certum.pl
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the SimplySign mobile app and SimplySign Desktop cost?
Both apps are free to download.
What is the difference between SimplySign App and SimplySign Desktop?
The SimplySign mobile app is used to generate one-time authentication codes (TOTP) required to authorize access in SimplySign Desktop. SimplySign Desktop establishes a secure connection to the cloud service where your code signing certificate and private key are securely stored.
Can I keep the certificate connected all the time?
No, it is not possible. SimplySign Desktop maintains an active secure session for up to two hours. If you need more time, you can sign out and sign in again at any time to start a new two-hour session.
How many times can I use a CODE certificate?
Each certificate can be used for up to 5,000 signatures per month. If this limit is exceeded, the certification authority may contact you and temporarily suspend the certificate until the next monthly period.
Are there any additional costs?
No. The price you pay includes the entire validity period of the certificate. There are no additional fees payable to the certification authority.
What information about me does the CODE INDIVIDUAL certificate contain?
The certificate contains your name as both the Common Name (CN) and the Organization (O). It also includes your city/locality (L), state/province (ST), and country (C). Your full street address and other personal information are not included in the certificate.
Which identity document is verified?
The certification authority verifies a government-issued photo ID, such as a national identity card, driver's license, or passport. If possible, the document should include your current residential address.
Is a mobile phone bill accepted as proof of address?
No. The certification authority requires proof of a physical address linked to a fixed location, such as a utility bill (electricity, gas, or water) or a landline or fixed internet service bill. Mobile phone bills are not accepted.
I live with my parents and don't have any utility bills.
If your government-issued ID shows the same family name and residential address as your parents, the certification authority may accept a utility bill issued in one of their names. Each application is reviewed individually, and acceptance is not guaranteed.
My ID still shows my old address.
If your identity document does not show your current residential address, the certification authority may request additional documents to verify your address.
I don't have any utility bills in my name.
If you cannot provide a utility bill in your own name, the certification authority may review alternative documents, such as a rental or lease agreement, on a case-by-case basis. However, proof of your residential address is mandatory, and acceptance of alternative documents is at the sole discretion of the certification authority. Therefore, certificate issuance cannot be guaranteed.
Why must the applicant for a CODE certificate be verified?
The certification authority (CA) must verify the identity of every applicant before issuing a code signing certificate. This verification follows industry requirements defined by the CA/Browser Forum as well as the CA's own security policies. Any improperly issued certificate could undermine the trust placed in the certification authority, which is why every application is reviewed carefully.
This process ensures digital trust. It is not just a "paper certificate" from a short course, but a globally recognized security standard. To avoid delays, please provide all requested documents and follow the validation team's instructions.
How long does the verification process take and when can I start signing?
Document review and identity verification typically take 2–4 business days once the certification authority receives all required documents. Please note that there is no guaranteed processing time (ETA), as each order is carefully reviewed through several validation steps.
The time it takes to complete the process depends on the speed of the applicant's response, the quality of the documents provided, and the workload of the certification authority, which must thoroughly verify everything. Once the certificate is issued, you can immediately start signing.
Can I use the certificate on multiple computers?
Yes. SimplySign Desktop can be installed on multiple computers. After signing in and completing two-factor authentication, you can use the same cloud certificate on any authorized device.
Do I need a USB token?
No. The private key is securely stored in Certum's cloud infrastructure, so no USB token or hardware security key is required.
Can I get or export a PFX file?
Exporting the certificate as a PFX file is no longer supported due to current CA/Browser Forum requirements and modern security standards.
Can I move my certificate to Azure Key Vault or Google Cloud HSM?
No. The private key remains securely stored within the Certum cloud infrastructure and cannot be exported or transferred to third-party HSM services such as Azure Key Vault or Google Cloud HSM.
Can I use the certificate in GitHub Actions or other CI/CD pipelines?
Not at the moment. Certum plans to introduce CI/CD support in the future, but no release date has been announced.
What happens if I replace my computer?
Simply install SimplySign Desktop on the new computer and sign in again. Since the certificate is stored securely in the cloud, it is not tied to a specific computer.
What if I lose my phone or get a new one?
If you lose your mobile phone or replace it with a new device, you will need to regain access to your SimplySign account. You can submit a request from your order details in the Control Panel. Once your request has been reviewed, we will send you a new SimplySign activation link.
