What is the function of code signing?

What is the function of code signing?

• A. To speed up the execution of applications
• B. To assure the code's source and integrity
• C. To encrypt data during transmission
• D. To validate user access to code

Answer: (B)

The function of code signing is to assure both the source and integrity of the code. This process involves the use of cryptographic methods to attach a digital signature to a software application or piece of code, which serves several important purposes. Firstly, it verifies the author's identity, allowing users to determine who created the software and confirming that it comes from a legitimate source. This is crucial in preventing the execution of malicious code disguised as legitimate applications. Secondly, code signing ensures that the code has not been altered or tampered with since it was signed. If any changes are made to the code after it has been signed, the digital signature becomes invalid, thus alerting users to potential security risks. This combination of source verification and integrity assurance builds trust, enabling users to proceed with confidence that the software will behave as expected and will not compromise their systems. In the context of software security and trust, code signing plays a fundamental role in safeguarding users against various threats.

The function of code signing is to assure both the source and integrity of the code. This process involves the use of cryptographic methods to attach a digital signature to a software application or piece of code, which serves several important purposes.

Firstly, it verifies the author's identity, allowing users to determine who created the software and confirming that it comes from a legitimate source. This is crucial in preventing the execution of malicious code disguised as legitimate applications. Secondly, code signing ensures that the code has not been altered or tampered with since it was signed. If any changes are made to the code after it has been signed, the digital signature becomes invalid, thus alerting users to potential security risks.

This combination of source verification and integrity assurance builds trust, enabling users to proceed with confidence that the software will behave as expected and will not compromise their systems. In the context of software security and trust, code signing plays a fundamental role in safeguarding users against various threats.