From f9af49feecce0c75796b792d4266f8638c75933b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Mooneer Salem Date: Wed, 26 Jul 2023 19:15:46 -0700 Subject: [PATCH] Add introduction. --- CODE_SIGNING.md | 11 +++++++++++ 1 file changed, 11 insertions(+) diff --git a/CODE_SIGNING.md b/CODE_SIGNING.md index 2393dbd8..e4fdccaa 100644 --- a/CODE_SIGNING.md +++ b/CODE_SIGNING.md @@ -1,5 +1,16 @@ # Code Signing Certificate HOWTO +## Introduction + +Windows has a built-in anti-virus/anti-malware mechanism called Windows Defender. As part of the protection the operating system provides, +it checks any .exe, .dll or installer files that are downloaded from the internet for a valid certificate. If one does not exist, Windows +displays a SmartScreen validation error message that requires additional steps from the user in order to bypass and continue installation. +Many users rightfully will not proceed with installation when faced with this message, assuming that the installer and/or FreeDV application +is infected with a virus. + +To improve the FreeDV user experience, it was determined that the project should purchase a code signing certificate and begin signing +official releases. + ## Prerequisites: * Pending EV code signing certificate order with [SignMyCode.com](https://signmycode.com) or another Sectigo reseller.