What is the primary purpose of code signing in software development?

What is the primary purpose of code signing in software development?

• A. To enhance graphical user interfaces
• B. To confirm the software author and guarantee code integrity
• C. To optimize program performance
• D. To enable software trials

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of code signing in software development is to confirm the software author and guarantee code integrity. Code signing involves the use of cryptographic digital signatures that provide a way for software developers to sign their applications and validate their identity. When the software is signed, it assures users that the code has not been altered or corrupted since it was signed, thus maintaining its integrity. This process helps to build trust between software developers and users, as it verifies that the software is coming from a known source and has not been tampered with. Users can easily check the signature to ensure that the software they are installing and using is safe and reliable. The other choices focus on aspects that are peripheral to the main objective of code signing. Enhancing graphical user interfaces or optimizing program performance relates to the development and functionality of the software itself, while enabling software trials does not inherently connect to the security and reputation assurance that code signing provides.

The primary purpose of code signing in software development is to confirm the software author and guarantee code integrity. Code signing involves the use of cryptographic digital signatures that provide a way for software developers to sign their applications and validate their identity. When the software is signed, it assures users that the code has not been altered or corrupted since it was signed, thus maintaining its integrity.

This process helps to build trust between software developers and users, as it verifies that the software is coming from a known source and has not been tampered with. Users can easily check the signature to ensure that the software they are installing and using is safe and reliable.

The other choices focus on aspects that are peripheral to the main objective of code signing. Enhancing graphical user interfaces or optimizing program performance relates to the development and functionality of the software itself, while enabling software trials does not inherently connect to the security and reputation assurance that code signing provides.