Packaged software uses branding and trusted sales outlets to assure users of its integrity, but these are not available when code is transmitted on the Internet. Additionally, there is no guarantee that the code hasn't been altered while being downloaded. Browsers typically exhibit a warning message explaining the possible dangers of downloading data, but do nothing to actually see whether the code is what it claims to be. A more active approach must be taken to make the Internet a reliable medium for distributing software.

Use of digital signatures – Code Signing Certificates - enables software developers to include information about themselves and their code with their software. End users who download digitally signed .exe, .doc, .dll, .air, .jar or other files can be confident. The code really comes from you and has not been altered or corrupted since it was created and signed. Code signing certificates ensure the data has been protected with high encryption and has not been altered in transmission.