Obtain a Windows Certificate and sign app

I have my app exported and running on Windows and realise I need to sign it so that when anyone downloads my app my credentials will be trusted, I've been doing this for years on iOS but am new to Windows!

I have no interest in having my app on the Store as I will be making it available solely from my own website.

I can't find a link to how/where a individual developer like me can obtain a certificate and sign my app?

I have found this: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/desktop/SecCrypto/using-signtool-to-sign-a-file but there is nothing about where I actually get the certificate from?

 

Ah, that points a different perspective on things then! Don't think as an single developer creating free games I can justify the cost :-( shame, but thanks for the info

 

Yes! I agree $75 a year sounds expensive but as you know there are cheaper options available in the market like SignMyCode is offering the same Comodo Code Signing Certificate at $44.99/per year: https://signmycode.com/comodo-code-signing

 

Those prices require you to buy a 5 year cert though so you're shelling out over $200. Yes, you save a bunch over the long haul but that's a huge initial outlay.

 

There are highly chances that you will see only multi year pricing whenever you try to research on code signing certificate. I had my own research on it and I found mostly the multi year pricing from commercial certificate authority such as;

https://www.digicert.com/signing/code-signing-certificates ($1024 per year)

However, you can obtain the same certificate at the lower price from top re-sellers with same features and 24/7 technical support.

Here is one of the cheapest option that you can obtain: https://cheapsslweb.com/code-signing-certificates

 

There are a variety of providers in the market for code signing certificates, including Sectigo Code Signing, Comodo Code Signing, and DigiCert Code Signing certificates.

While it is possible to find cheaper options with a quick google search, it is important to choose a provider that specifically deals with code signing businesses. This way, if any issues arise, you can receive quicker support. Additionally, ensure that the provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you are not completely satisfied.

For more detailed information on code signing certificates, be sure to check out this in-depth guide - https://sslwiki.org/what-is-code-signing-certificate/

 

Imagine my delight when I realized that if I release my Windows game on Steam they take care of the certificate for me