Signature standards with DS|Sign
Not all electronic signatures are the same. Depending on the industry and type of document, different levels of security and legal guarantees are required. DS Sign supports all three recognized EU signature standards: SES, AES and QES.
SES (Simple Electronic Signature )
The most basic form of electronic signature, e.g. a scanned image of a handwritten signature or a typed name, without advanced verification.
Intended use: For low-risk, everyday agreements where no advanced verification is required, e.g. signing a vacation request form.
AES (Advanced Electronic Signature)
A digital signature that is uniquely linked to and can identify the signatory, is created by means that are exclusively under the signatory's control, and recognizes subsequent changes to the signed data.
Intended use: For business documents that require more security in terms of identity and data integrity, e.g. the signing of confidentiality agreements between companies.
Intended use: For business documents that require more security in terms of identity and data integrity, e.g. the signing of confidentiality agreements between companies.
QES (Qualified Electronic Signature)
A legally recognized digital signature with the highest level of trustworthiness, based on a qualified certificate issued by a trustworthy provider and equivalent to a handwritten signature under EU law.
Intended use: For high-risk transactions or when strict legal regulations must be complied with, e.g. when signing tax returns and legal documents.
| Industry | Contract signing | NDAs | familiarization | Remote signing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal and tax advisors | QES | SES | QES | QES/AES |
| Healthcare & clinics | SES | SES | SES | QES/AES |
| Government and public sector | QES | SES | SES | SES |
| Real Estate | SES | QES/AES | QES | QES/AES |
| Human Resources & Recruitment | QES | SES | SES | QES/AES |
Why is this important?
Choosing the right signature level helps you to comply with EU regulations (eIDAS), protect sensitive data and the trust of your customers and ensure that your signed documents are always valid and enforceable.
With DS|Sign, you don't have to worry - we offer all three standards (SES, AES, QES) so you can choose the right one for every workflow.
DS|Sign offers you legal compliance and strong security measures, making it suitable for individuals and businesses in the EU.