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Encountering the “Digital Signature Could Not Be Verified” error in Windows 11 can be frustrating. This message usually appears when trying to install or run software that Windows perceives as potentially unsafe. It means the system cannot confirm the authenticity of the software’s digital signature.

Digital signatures help ensure that the software you are installing comes from a trusted source and has not been tampered with. When Windows cannot verify this, it blocks the installation or execution to protect your computer.

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to resolve this issue. This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions to fix the error and get your software running smoothly.

Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks

• Verify Internet Connection: Windows needs internet access to check digital certificates online, so ensure you are connected.
• Update Windows: Sometimes, missing system updates can cause signature verification issues. Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date.
• Check Date and Time: Incorrect system date and time can lead to verification errors. Confirm your PC’s clock is accurate.
• Use Administrator Account: Some fixes require admin rights. Log in with an administrator account before proceeding.

Step 1: Run Windows Update

Windows regularly receives updates that improve security and fix bugs related to digital signatures. Running Windows Update is the simplest first step.

1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update on the left sidebar.
3. Click Check for updates.
4. If updates are found, install them and restart your computer.

Updating ensures your system has the latest certificate authorities and security patches, which can help verify digital signatures correctly.

Step 2: Check and Correct Date and Time Settings

Digital certificates rely on correct date and time settings to verify validity. If your system clock is wrong, Windows might reject valid signatures.

1. Right-click the clock on the bottom-right corner of your screen.
2. Select Adjust date and time.
3. Make sure Set time automatically is turned On.
4. Also, turn on Set time zone automatically.
5. If these settings are already on, try turning them off and on again to refresh.

Step 3: Disable Driver Signature Enforcement Temporarily

If you are installing drivers or software that Windows blocks due to signature issues, you can temporarily disable signature enforcement. This allows installation but should be used carefully.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System > Recovery.
3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
4. When your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot.
5. Select Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
6. After restart, press 7 or F7 to choose Disable driver signature enforcement.
7. Now, try installing or running your software again.

Important: This setting lasts only for the current session. After rebooting, Windows will re-enable signature enforcement for your protection.

Step 4: Manually Install the Digital Certificate

If you have access to the digital certificate file (.cer or .crt) from the software vendor, installing it manually can fix verification issues.

1. Double-click the certificate file to open it.
2. Click Install Certificate.
3. Choose Local Machine and click Next.
4. Select Place all certificates in the following store.
5. Click Browse and select Trusted Root Certification Authorities.
6. Click Next, then Finish.
7. Restart your computer and try again.

This process adds the certificate to your system’s trusted store, helping Windows recognize the signature as valid.

Alternative Method: Use Command Prompt to Verify or Remove Problematic Drivers

Sometimes old or corrupted drivers cause the error. You can use Command Prompt to check driver signatures or uninstall problematic drivers.

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. To verify a driver, use the command:

sigverif

This launches the File Signature Verification tool, which scans your system for unsigned drivers.

3. If you find unsigned or suspicious drivers, uninstall them via Device Manager:

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Find the device with the problematic driver.
• Right-click and choose Uninstall device.
• Restart your PC and reinstall the driver from a trusted source.

FAQs

What is a digital signature and why is it important?

A digital signature verifies the authenticity and integrity of software. It ensures the software is from a trusted source and hasn’t been altered.

Can I ignore this error and install software anyway?

Ignoring this error can be risky because the software might be unsafe or malicious. Only bypass this warning if you are sure about the source and trust the software.

Why does Windows block some drivers even if they work fine?

Windows enforces driver signing to protect your system. Sometimes, valid drivers may not be signed or have expired certificates, causing Windows to block them.

Does disabling driver signature enforcement permanently solve the problem?

No, this setting is temporary and resets after reboot. For a permanent solution, the driver must be properly signed or replaced with a signed version.

How do I update my certificates in Windows?

Windows updates certificates automatically through Windows Update. Keeping your system updated ensures you have the latest trusted certificates.

When Nothing Works

If you still face the “Digital Signature Could Not Be Verified” error after trying all these steps, consider the following options:

• Contact Software Vendor: Reach out to the software’s official support for updated or properly signed versions.
• Use Microsoft’s Official Resources: Visit the Microsoft Driver Signing Documentation for detailed guidance.
• Perform System File Check: Run sfc /scannow in Command Prompt to repair corrupted system files.
• Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, resetting Windows 11 can fix deeper system issues affecting signature verification.

Conclusion

The “Digital Signature Could Not Be Verified” error in Windows 11 is a security measure to protect your system. By following simple steps like updating Windows, correcting system time, temporarily disabling signature enforcement, or manually installing certificates, you can resolve this issue effectively.

Always keep your system updated and download software from trusted sources to avoid this error in the future. If problems persist, using advanced tools or reaching out to official support can help you get back on track safely.