Complete Guide to Code Signing for iOS 10.3 Applications: Everything You Need to Know

Code signing is an essential process in app development, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of your applications. In this guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information to successfully code sign your iOS 10.3 applications.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Code Signing
2. Creating Certificates and Identifiers
3. Creating Provisioning Profiles
4. Code Signing in Xcode
5. Resolving Common Code Signing Issues
6. FAQ

Introduction to Code Signing

Code signing is a security mechanism implemented by Apple to ensure that only trusted and authorized code can run on its devices. It is a process that involves using a digital signature to verify the identity of the developer and the integrity of the application.

By signing your iOS applications, you ensure that the app has not been tampered with and that it originates from a trusted source. This is particularly important for App Store distribution, as Apple requires all applications to be code signed before submission.

For more information on code signing, visit the official Apple Developer documentation.

Creating Certificates and Identifiers

To begin code signing your iOS 10.3 applications, you need to create the necessary certificates and identifiers. Follow these steps:

1. Sign in to the Apple Developer website.
2. Navigate to Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles.
3. Under the "Certificates" section, click the "+" button to create a new certificate.
4. Choose the appropriate certificate type for your needs (e.g., iOS App Development or App Store and Ad Hoc).
5. Follow the instructions to create a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) and upload it.
6. Download the generated certificate and add it to your Keychain.

Next, create an app identifier:

1. Under the "Identifiers" section, click the "+" button to create a new identifier.
2. Choose "App IDs" and click "Continue."
3. Enter a description for your app and a unique Bundle ID (e.g., com.example.myapp).
4. Select any necessary app services and click "Continue."
5. Review your app identifier and click "Register."

For more information on creating certificates and identifiers, refer to Apple's official documentation.

Creating Provisioning Profiles

Provisioning profiles are required for code signing and allow you to authorize specific devices and developers to run and test your applications. To create a provisioning profile:

1. Under the "Profiles" section, click the "+" button to create a new profile.
2. Choose the appropriate profile type for your needs (e.g., iOS App Development or App Store).
3. Select your app identifier from the previous section and click "Continue."
4. Choose the necessary development or distribution certificate and click "Continue."
5. Select the devices you want to authorize and click "Continue."
6. Enter a name for your provisioning profile and click "Generate."
7. Download the generated profile and double-click it to install.

For more information on creating provisioning profiles, refer to Apple's official documentation.

Code Signing in Xcode

With your certificates, identifiers, and provisioning profiles created, you can now set up code signing in Xcode:

1. Open your project in Xcode.
2. Select your project in the Navigator and choose your target.
3. Navigate to the "General" tab.
4. Under "Identity," ensure that your Bundle Identifier matches the one you created earlier.
5. Under "Signing," select "Automatically manage signing" and choose your team.
6. Xcode should automatically select the appropriate provisioning profile.

If you prefer manual code signing, deselect "Automatically manage signing" and choose your provisioning profile and signing certificate.

For more information on code signing in Xcode, refer to Apple's official documentation.

Resolving Common Code Signing Issues

Code signing issues can sometimes arise during the development process. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

1. Missing or expired certificates: Ensure that you have the necessary certificates installed in your Keychain and that they have not expired. If needed, create new certificates and update your provisioning profiles.
2. Mismatched Bundle Identifier: Ensure that your app's Bundle Identifier matches the one in your app identifier and provisioning profile.
3. Invalid or missing provisioning profiles: Ensure that you have the necessary provisioning profiles installed and that they are valid. If needed, create new profiles and update your Xcode settings.

Refer to Apple's official documentation on resolving code signing issues for more information.

FAQ

How do I renew an expired certificate?

To renew an expired certificate, you will need to create a new certificate following the same process as before. Once you have a new certificate, update your provisioning profiles to use the new certificate.

What is the difference between development and distribution certificates?

Development certificates are used to sign apps during the development process, allowing them to run on authorized devices. Distribution certificates are used for apps that are being distributed through the App Store or other means.

Can I share my certificates with other team members?

It is not recommended to share your private key or certificates with other team members. Instead, each team member should create their own certificates and be added to the team's provisioning profiles.

What is a Certificate Signing Request (CSR)?

A Certificate Signing Request (CSR) is a file containing your public key and additional information about your identity. It is used by Apple to generate a signed certificate for your app.

Why do I need to add devices to my provisioning profile?

Adding devices to your provisioning profile allows you to authorize specific devices for running and testing your app. This is necessary for development and ad hoc distribution.

Related Links

• Apple Developer Portal
• Official Code Signing Guide
• Managing Certificates, Identifiers, and Profiles
• Xcode Help - Code Signing