(DC) Which do I need?
The question "Which do I need?" is answered by asking the question "What do you want to do?". Below, find some examples of common questions and tasks (not exhaustive), that will lead you to the right type of digital certificate that you need. This section will get updated when additional scenarios are discovered.
Keywords | Description | Digital Certificate |
|---|---|---|
|  If you run a web server or application and you need to encrypt or secure communication between client and the server, then you most likely need a SSL (Secure Socket Layer) Certificate. Securing websites with SSL certificates has become very easy to do, and should be the default. | Button | Mosaic |
| If you are a developer, and you want to ensure the code you deliver is genuine and has not been tampered with, then you are looking for a Code Signing Certificate. Many operating systems (Linux, Windows, MacOS, etc..) are now requiring that all applications be signed otherwise your users will have to jump through hoops to run the software or they will be denied depending on organizational policies. Unsigned applications usually generate errors like this: When a application or code has been signed, you will instead see messages like this: | Button | Mosaic |
| Do you want to either encrypt or "sign" your emails to ensure that the receipt securely receives the email and knows it came from you, you are most likely looking for a Client Certificate. When people talk about an email certificate, they’re typically referring to a type of X.509 digital certificate that’s used to secure data at rest for email users. Some users prefer terms like “S/MIME certificates” (because they secure MIME data), “email signing certificate,” or “personal authentication certificates,” etc. Effective July 17, 2026, Client Certificates, also known as Email Certificates, S/MIME Certificates, or Office 365 Certificates, will no longer be offered as a centrally funded or common-good service. Departments that need to digitally sign email or send and receive encrypted email will need to purchase certificates directly from an approved commercial provider. Certificates may be purchased for a single user or in larger quantities for multiple users within a department. | Button | Mosaic |