PDF Signatures: Electronic vs Digital Certificate — Know the Difference

Quick answer: Two different things share the word "signature": an electronic signature is the visual mark (drawn or image — DocsAll supports this); a digital signature uses CA certificate cryptography to prove integrity (DocsAll does not). Most everyday contracts need only the former — but never pass one off as the other. Open PDF Sign — everything runs locally in your browser, and files never leave your device.

Steps

1. Upload the PDF to the PDF Sign tool.
2. Create the signature: draw it, or upload a photo of your ink signature (transparent PNG works best).
3. Place and size it on the signature line.
4. Download the signed PDF.

Important notes

• Electronic signatures do not lock the file — prevent edits afterwards with PDF encryption.
• Strengthen trust: archive the signed version with PDF Compare, keep the exchange thread, and finish all edits before signing.
• When the counterparty explicitly requires a certificate-based digital signature, a visual mark will not satisfy it — use a dedicated signing service.

Common questions

The other party rejects my e-signature Ask which form they require; "digital signature" means certificates — outside DocsAll's current scope, honestly stated.

Is a drawn signature legally valid? Widely accepted for everyday agreements; weight varies by jurisdiction — for high-stakes deals, ask about certified signing.