Digital Signature (What It Is)
The Digital Signature is a secure electronic signature through encryption on a document. It proves:
who signed the document
That the document has not been altered following signing.
The time when it was signed
Digital signatures are developed based on cryptographic keys, i.e. a private key to sign using and a public key to verify and guarantee the integrity and authenticity of digital documents.
Digital Signature Certificate (What it is)
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).- the Digital Signature Certificate is an electronic identity certificate that is issued by a certified government-authorized Certifying Authority (CA). It includes proven data regarding the signer including:
- name
- organization (if applicable)
- validity period
- public key
This certificate is what connects the identity of a signer with a public key, which the others can use to verify the digital signatures.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Digital Signature | Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) |
| What it is | A secure electronic signature applied to a document | A digital identity certificate issued by a trusted authority |
| Purpose | Proves document authenticity | Confirms signer’s identity |
| Usage | Signing documents digitally | Enabling digital signatures |
| Created by | Cryptographic key process | Certifying Authority (CA) |
| Stored in | Document metadata | Digital certificate file (usually on USB token) |
