iOS Signing – The Ultimate Guide to Apple App Signing
iOS signing is a crucial step in the process of developing and distributing iOS apps. Without proper signing, Apple devices will not install or run the app. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Apple app signing.
What is iOS Signing?
iOS signing is the process of applying an electronic signature to an iOS app. This signature is used to verify that the app comes from a trusted source and has not been tampered with. Apple devices verify the signature before allowing the app to install and run.
There are multiple types of iOS signing, including:
Development Signing
Ad Hoc Signing
Enterprise Signing
App Store Signing
Development Signing
Development signing is used for testing and debugging an app on a developer’s own device. A development signing certificate can be obtained from Apple’s developer portal, and it is valid for one year.
To use development signing, the iOS device must be registered with Apple’s developer program. Once registered, the device can be used to test any apps signed with the developer’s certificate.
Ad Hoc Signing
Ad Hoc signing is used for distributing an app to a limited number of users for testing purposes. An ad hoc signing certificate can also be obtained from Apple’s developer portal, and it is valid for one year.
Unlike development signing, ad hoc signing allows the app to be installed on multiple registered devices. However, the number of devices is limited to 100 per certificate.
Enterprise Signing
Enterprise signing is used for distributing in-house apps to employees within an organization. An enterprise signing certificate can be obtained from Apple’s developer portal with an Enterprise Apple Developer account, and it is valid for three years.
Enterprise signed apps can be installed on any device without being limited by device registration. However, the app can only be distributed within the organization and cannot be distributed on the App Store.
App Store Signing
App Store signing is used for distributing apps on the App Store. App Store signing requires the app to go through Apple’s app review process. Once approved, the app is signed with an App Store signing certificate and can be distributed to anyone through the App Store.
Conclusion
iOS signing is a critical step in the app development process. Developers need to choose the right type of signing based on their needs and distribute their app accordingly. Whether it’s development, ad hoc, enterprise, or App Store signing, Apple has made the process accessible and straightforward for all developers.
