Code Signing
Code signing your app assures users that it is from a known source and the app hasn’t been modified since it was last signed. Before your app can integrate app services, be installed on a device, or be submitted to the App Store, it must be signed with a certificate issued by Apple.
Common Tasks
To avoid potential issues with common tasks involving code signing, follow these best practices:
Signing and Running Development Builds
Beta Testing
Distribution
Essential Guides and Documentation
- Xcode Help: Distribute your app
- Code Signing Troubleshooting
- Troubleshooting Push Notifications
- Developer ID and Gatekeeper
- Code Signing Guide
Worldwide Developer Relations Certification Intermediate Certificate update
New Enterprise iOS Distribution Certificates will be issued using a new version of the Apple Worldwide Developer Relations Certification Intermediate Certificate. Apple development certificates will continue to be issued by the version of the Apple Worldwide Developer Relations Certification Intermediate Certificate that expires on February 7, 2023, so you should keep both versions installed on your development systems and servers.
Xcode 11.4.1 or later is required to sign apps using certificates issued with the new intermediate certificate. If you are unable to upgrade to a compatible version of Xcode, you can continue to sign your apps using the command line. Download and install the new intermediate certificate to ensure that you can successfully sign apps with a newly created Enterprise iOS Distribution Certificate.
WWDR Certification Intermediate Certificate (Expires February 7, 2023)
WWDR Certification Intermediate Certificate (Expires February 20, 2030)
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I transfer my code signing certificates and provisioning profiles to another Mac?
Review the instructions in Export signing certificates and provisioning profiles.
- What does “Valid Signing Identity Not Found” mean and how do I resolve it?
Follow the steps outlined in If a signing certificate or private key is missing.
- How do I resolve a code signing build error?
See the list of published solutions in If a code signing error occurs.
- How do I revoke or delete my certificates and start over?
Use the process outlined in View or remove a signing certificate in your keychain.
- Do I need to define a custom Code Signing Entitlements file in Xcode?
To understand when entitlements are required and how to configure them properly, see Add a capability to a target.