IPA signer certificate
An IPA signer certificate helps sign compatible IPA files you own, develop, test, or have permission to install on your registered iPhone or iPad.
Digital delivery: certificate files are delivered by email with no physical shipping. Generated certificate files are not returnable, but CertDrop helps with delivery, resend, and replacement issues.
What each certificate file does
- .p12: the signing certificate used to cryptographically sign the IPA
- .mobileprovision: the profile that allows the signed app to run on your device UDID
- Password: unlocks the .p12 certificate during import or signing
- Install page: keeps your downloads and signed app links in one place
Where you can use it
- Feather on iPhone or iPad
- ESign on iPhone or iPad
- Scarlet and other compatible on-device signers
- CertDrop's free online IPA signer if you already have certificate files
A good signing checklist
- Use the correct UDID for the device
- Import both certificate files, not just the .p12
- Copy the password exactly
- Sign a compatible IPA file
- Trust the developer profile in iOS Settings after installation
Frequently asked questions
Can this sign compatible IPA?
It can sign most compatible IPA files, but an IPA may still fail if the app itself is broken, outdated, or incompatible with your iOS version.
Is this different from a free Apple ID signer?
Yes. Free Apple ID signing usually expires after 7 days. A paid developer certificate is designed for a much longer validity period.
Do I need the provisioning profile?
Yes. The provisioning profile connects the signed app to your registered device UDID.
Can I use the free CertDrop signer with these files?
Yes. If you already have the .p12, .mobileprovision, and password, you can use CertDrop's certificate signing tool.
Check your setup before you lose time.
Use the free CertDrop tools to check certificate files, IPA compatibility, and iPhone setup steps before ordering or signing.