What is a type A1 digital certificate and who is it suitable for?
Understand what a type A1 digital certificate is and when it can be used
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The A1 type digital certificate is one of the types of digital certificates on the market.
Many people confuse the type A1 with type A3. Although both are important for businesses, there are significant differences between them.
After all, your choice may define how this validator will be used.
And that’s why today, we’re going to explain everything you need to know about the A1 digital certificate and show you the cases in which it’s the best option. Keep reading to find out more!
What is a digital certificate?
First of all, it is very important that you understand exactly what a digital certificate is.
Well then, the digital certificate, Basically, it is an electronic identity for individuals and legal entities.
Therefore, it serves as a digital document that guarantees your identity and provides more security.
In other words, it is a technology that, through data encryption, guarantees authenticity and integrity of electronic information.
In addition to security, this feature offers practicality and agility, as it allows authentication in systems, websites and document signatures without the need to travel.
What is a type A1 digital certificate?
The type A1 digital certificate is a computer file, which is stored on the device on which it will be used.
It works through a pair of encrypted keys – one public and one private.
Systems that require the certificate will be able to access the file directly, without having to configure the device or access it using a login and password.
In order for this type of certificate to be installed on a machine, you need to save the file to your computer.
How does the A1 type digital certificate work?
The document is installed directly on the machine and does not require cards or tokens for use.
The access password must only be entered once, that is, during installation.
Since it is basically a file installed on your computer, the risk of loss or theft is relatively lower.
The downside, however, is that the validity is only one year.
This type of certification can be activated every time the user performs an action that requires an electronic signature, such as confirming certain information, for example.
Who is the A1 type digital certificate suitable for?
This type of certificate is recommended for freelance professionals who need to send signed digital documents.
However, companies that deal with a large volume of document validation can also benefit from using this certificate model.
Using the certificate, you can sign digital documents, issue electronic invoices and access public systems such as FGTS social connectivity, for example.
This model is more complete and comes with interesting features. Therefore, before choosing the A1 type, check if you really need these features.
What is the difference between A1 and A3 certificates?
Both types have their advantages.
However, each one has certain characteristics and, therefore, before choosing a specific type, it is essential that you understand the main advantages of each one.
The main difference is the predetermined storage media, that is, a device, which can be a card or token.
In other words, while type A1 is stored on the computer, type A3 is stored on tokens, cards or in the cloud.
Regarding the password, its use is mandatory in type A3 (in A1 it is optional).
As we said, the validity is only one year for type A1.
In type A3, validity can be 12, 24 or 36 months.
Since A3 has a longer validity period, it can be more cost-effective. However, it offers less flexibility when it comes to issuing large volumes of tax documents.
Which certificate to choose?
Each certificate has certain advantages and characteristics.
Therefore, it is essential that you analyze these characteristics and, thus, understand which is the best model for you or your business.
First of all, it all depends on the necessary standards. Although they are relatively different, both systems are safe and offer practicality.
When choosing a certificate, analyze the most useful tools.
If necessary, you can have more than one type of certificate. This way, you will use the most convenient format depending on the situation.
How to obtain your digital certificate?
After choosing the most suitable digital certificate, it is time to choose one of the Certification Authorities (CAs) subordinate to ICP-Brasil.
To acquire it, you need to present some documents, yours or the company's, to the certifying body.
To complete the purchase of the certificate, go to one of the certification body's service points.
Schedule a date for in-person validation (bring all required documents), complete biometric registration and sign the terms.
After in-person validation, you must wait for the digital certificate to become available.
How do I renew my digital certificate?
Renewing your digital certificate is a simple process!
However, it is recommended that you renew your application well in advance, as some Certification Authorities may take a few days to complete the process.
Log into the CA website with your username and password and access the update area. Choose a type of digital certificate and version, such as A1 and A3.
To complete the process, choose the best payment method for you. Currently, the value for renewing the certificate is between R$130 and R$300.
Conclusion
The A1 type digital certificate is recommended for freelance professionals and also for companies that deal with a large volume of document validation.
This feature was created to offer more practicality and agility. After all, with it, you can simplify operations and reduce bureaucracy in processes that, a few years ago, could only be carried out in person.
Understanding the difference between the A1 and A3 model is important for you to decide which one is best suited to your needs.
However, if necessary, you can have more than one type of certificate!
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