signed and unsigned apps?

In very simple terms, a signed application has been 'matched' to your specific phone and can only be used by this phone. Every phone has its own unique IMEI number and the signing process matches a piece of software to this number. If you have downloaded a program that states it is unsigned, then there are a few ways to sign it - if you search this forum you'll find these.

Some programs will run on any phone without signing however.

Someone will follow up this post by telling me I'm completely wrong I'm sure but its how I understand it!

jorge999 wrote:In very simple terms, a signed application has been 'matched' to your specific phone and can only be used by this phone. Every phone has its own unique IMEI number and the signing process matches a piece of software to this number. If you have downloaded a program that states it is unsigned, then there are a few ways to sign it - if you search this forum you'll find these.

Some programs will run on any phone without signing however.

Someone will follow up this post by telling me I'm completely wrong I'm sure but its how I understand it!

All Applications are signes in one way or another either by the developer ( by purchasing an application certificate ) or by a user using their own certificate or other methods. User Certificates are normally locked to an IMEI where as developer certificates are not.

mmm....thanks guys.

what does IMEI number mean?
its that number where i press *#06#.............isnt it? (N95 8gb)
serial number?

so which are better? signed or unsigned apps?
signed apps seem quicker and easier to get up and running to me.

Well signed applications you can install..... unsigned ones you can't.

That's the only difference.

The only way you can install applications is to get the application self-signed by going though symbian-signed or downloading software that's been signed by the publisher.

If you self-sign something it will only install on your phone is its locked to the imei / serial number.

well put unplugged.

ok, say if ive got an unsigned app.............

whats the process of signing it? do i need to install it first........and then go to symbian signed? or go symbian signed first?

Everything you've ever wanted to know about signing applications can be found here (along with a lot of other tips and information).

http://sjc-123.blogspot.com/2007/09/best-tips-and-tricks-for-nokia-n95.html

Just scroll down to item 3. How to Sign "Unsigned" Freeware Applications

Good luck!