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Automation of Code Signing: Secure Software Signing Without Worries

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

Code signing is a must, but it needs to be automated

Software digital signature is essential for user trust and protection against unauthorized code modifications. With the development of DevOps and CI/CD processes, demand for automation of Code Signing is increasing – signing software without the need for manual intervention. SSLmarket offers three modern and secure routes to achieve this.

SSLmarket offers you three perfect options for Code Signing automation:

Below we will introduce each option for code signing automation and its key advantages.

Certificate stored on HSM (e.g., Azure Key Vault, Google Cloud KMS)

Storing a code signing certificate on a Hardware Security Module (HSM) is a classic, yet very secure solution. In the case of using Azure Key Vault or Google Cloud KMS, the certificate is stored in a highly secured environment accessed 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, Google Cloud).
  • Signing costs: Azure and Google cloud HSM have no fixed costs, you only pay for signatures and these are inexpensive.

This option is suitable for teams already working in the cloud looking for a fully automated but still self-managed solution.

More about using a Code Signing certificate with Azure Key Vault HSM can be found in the article Signing code (Code Signing) using Azure Key Vault. Instructions for Google Cloud KMS can be found in the article Signing code using Google Cloud KMS.

DigiCert KeyLocker

DigiCert KeyLocker is a cloud service designed specifically 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: Support for tools like Jenkins, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions.
  • High security: Certificates are protected in accordance with CA/B forum requirements.

KeyLocker is an ideal choice for developers and smaller teams wanting to automate signing without unnecessary infrastructure investments.

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 is the DigiCert Software Trust Manager (STM). It is a comprehensive platform for managing the entire lifecycle of code signing certificates – from application, 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 applications, and IoT firmware.

Software Trust Manager is a solution for corporations emphasizing access control, auditability, and compliance with internal security policies.

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

Conclusion

Automation of 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 with implementation.

If you're unsure which option is best for you, contact us – we will gladly advise you on selection and technical integration.

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