Set-AuthenticodeSignature is a Windows PowerShell command that is used to digitally sign files, scripts, and other objects. This command allows users to authenticate the origin and integrity of the file or object, and to verify that the file or object has not been tampered with. This command is especially useful for software developers who need to ensure that their code is secure and has not been modified by malicious actors. In this article, we will discuss the syntax, parameters, inputs, outputs, examples, and tips for using the Set-AuthenticodeSignature command.
Syntax
The syntax for the Set-AuthenticodeSignature command is as follows:
Set-AuthenticodeSignature [-FilePath] <string> [-Certificate] <X509Certificate2> [-HashAlgorithm <string>] [-IncludeChain <string>] [-TimestampServer <string>] [-Force] [-WhatIf] [-Confirm] [<CommonParameters>]
Parameters
The Set-AuthenticodeSignature command has the following parameters:
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| -FilePath | The path to the file or object to be signed. |
| -Certificate | The X.509 certificate to use for signing. |
| -HashAlgorithm | The hashing algorithm to use for signing. |
| -IncludeChain | Specifies whether to include the certificate chain in the signature. |
| -TimestampServer | The timestamp server to use for signing. |
| -Force | Specifies whether to overwrite an existing signature. |
| -WhatIf | Shows what would happen if the command were to run. |
| -Confirm | Prompts the user for confirmation before running the command. |
Inputs
The Set-AuthenticodeSignature command requires the following inputs:
- The path to the file or object to be signed.
- An X.509 certificate to use for signing.
- A hashing algorithm to use for signing.
- A timestamp server to use for signing.
Outputs
The Set-AuthenticodeSignature command does not have any outputs.
Examples
The following example shows how to use the Set-AuthenticodeSignature command to sign a file named “MyFile.txt” with an X.509 certificate named “MyCert.cer”:
Set-AuthenticodeSignature -FilePath “MyFile.txt” -Certificate “MyCert.cer” -HashAlgorithm SHA256 -TimestampServer “http://timestamp.digicert.com”
Tips
When using the Set-AuthenticodeSignature command, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
- Make sure that the X.509 certificate used for signing is valid and has not expired.
- Make sure that the timestamp server used for signing is valid and has not expired.
- If the file or object to be signed already has a signature, use the -Force parameter to overwrite the existing signature.
- If you are unsure of the command’s effects, use the -WhatIf parameter to see what would happen if the command were to run.
- If you are unsure of the command’s effects, use the -Confirm parameter to prompt the user for confirmation before running the command.
Conclusion
The Set-AuthenticodeSignature command is a powerful tool for digitally signing files, scripts, and other objects. This command allows users to authenticate the origin and integrity of the file or object, and to verify that the file or object has not been tampered with. By following the syntax, parameters, inputs, outputs, examples, and tips outlined in this article, users can easily use the Set-AuthenticodeSignature command to securely sign their files and objects.