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Compare specialized certificate types

Specialized certificate types support use cases beyond TLS, including software integrity, document authenticity, user authentication, email security, and regulatory compliance.

Code signing certificates

  • Confirms the identity of the software publisher

  • Ensures that code has not been altered after signing

  • Establishes trust with operating systems and end users

  • Common use cases: distributing software, signing executables, scripts, or installers

Document signing certificates

  • Verifies the identity of the document signer

  • Ensures that document content has not been altered

  • Supports digital signature workflows

  • Common use cases: contracts, agreements, and compliance-driven documents

Client certificates

  • Provides strong identity-based authentication

  • Eliminates reliance on passwords alone

  • Supports mutual TLS (mTLS) authentication

  • Common use cases: internal systems and API access

S/MIME certificates

  • Encrypts and digitally signs email communications

  • Common use cases: secure email for employees and organizations

VMC and CMC certificates

  • Display verified brand logos in supported email clients

  • Common use cases: brand identity in email

Regional and regulatory certificates

Meet jurisdiction-specific requirements such as eIDAS, PSD2, or other compliance standards

Choosing a specialized certificate type

Required function

Certificate type

Software integrity

Code signing

Document authenticity

Document signing

User authentication

Client certificate

Email security

S/MIME

Brand identity in email

VMC or CMC

Regulatory compliance

Regional or regulatory certificate

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