E-Signature vs Digital Signature: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

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E-Signature vs Digital Signature: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

The use of electronic signatures (e-signatures) and digital signatures has become increasingly prevalent in various industries. In fact, there has been an increase in global e-signature transactions from 89 million to 754 million in just five years. 

These technologies offer a convenient and secure way to sign documents and authenticate the identity of the person signing. 

However, there is often confusion surrounding the differences between e-signature vs digital signature. 

In this article, you will learn exactly what e-signatures and digital signatures are, their benefits, how they differ, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re signing contracts, legal documents, or managing business transactions, understanding these concepts is essential for anyone navigating the digital age.


Key Takeaways

  • Digital signatures offer stronger security and legal standing than basic eSignatures. This is especially important for sensitive documents and high-value electronic transactions.
  • eSignatures streamline everyday agreements where convenience and speed are a priority. They simplify contracts, forms, and approvals.
  • Digital signatures use sophisticated encryption and identity verification. This guarantees your document hasn’t been tampered with.
  • Both eSignatures and digital signatures are transforming how businesses operate. Deals close faster, errors are reduced, and less paper is wasted.
  • Choose the right solution based on your needs. Consider the sensitivity of your documents, legal requirements, and the importance of advanced security features.
Stylus writing signature on tablet

What is an eSignature?

An electronic signature, commonly referred to as an eSignature, is a broad category that encompasses various methods of signing documents electronically rather than using paper and ink. 

It can take the form of a scanned image of a handwritten signature, a typed name, a digital representation of a signature, or a unique identifier such as a PIN or password. These are used to indicate the signer’s intent to agree to the contents of a document or transaction.

An eSignature can take various forms such as: 

  • Typed Names: Simply typing your name into a designated field in a document.
  • “I Agree” Buttons: Clicking buttons on websites that state you agree with the terms or conditions presented.
  • Digital Drawing: Using tools to draw your signature just like you would do on paper but digitally.

eSignatures are recognized legally in many jurisdictions around the world thanks to laws like the U.S. Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN Act) and the European Union’s Electronic Identification And Trust Services regulation (eIDAS). These legislations have paved the way for wider adoption by providing legal standing similar to traditional signatures under certain conditions.

Potential Security Concerns with eSignatures

While eSignatures offer convenience and efficiency, they may not always carry the same level of security assurance as digital signatures — a more secure subset that uses encryption technologies. 

Some forms of electronic signatures could be easily manipulated or forged if proper verification processes aren’t implemented. 

For instance, typed names or clicked agreements don’t provide evidence about who actually performed these actions without additional authentication measures being taken. Therefore, businesses using this technology, especially for digital contracts, need to ensure that their chosen solution has adequate security features capable of verifying the identity of the user effectively.

Incorporating robust electronic signature solutions like FillFaster can significantly enhance contract management workflows while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and safeguarding against potential fraud risks associated with less secure methods.

Digital signature key on a laptop keyboard

What Is a Digital Signature?

On the other hand, digital signatures are a specific type of electronic signature that offers an added layer of security and authenticity. Digital signatures use cryptographic technology to provide a unique digital fingerprint for both the document and the signer. This ensures the integrity of the document and verifies the identity of the signer.

How Does Digital Signature Work?

Digital signatures operate on the principle of public-key cryptography, establishing a secure and verifiable link between the signer and the document. Here’s how digital signature works:

  • Key Pair Generation: Two mathematically related cryptographic keys are generated for the signer – a private key and a public key. The private key remains solely in the signer’s possession, while the public key is made available to those needing to verify the signature.
  • Hash Function: A unique, fixed-length digest, called a “hash,” is calculated from the document’s contents using a cryptographic hash function. This mathematical algorithm produces a digital fingerprint that is fundamentally tied to that specific version of the document. Even the slightest change to the document’s contents will generate a completely different hash.
  • Signature Creation: The signer’s private key is used to encrypt the hash value, resulting in the digital signature. This signature is then appended to the document being signed. 
  • Signature Verification: To verify the signature, the recipient utilizes the signer’s public key to decrypt it. They concurrently generate a new hash value from the received document. If the decrypted hash and the newly calculated hash match exactly, it confirms two crucial points: (1) The document is authentically signed by the holder of the private key, and (2) The document has not undergone any alterations since the moment of signing.
Cryptographic keys

Cryptographic Keys: The Foundation of Trust

Central to this system are two types of keys used in cryptography: public and private keys. 

Public keys, as their name suggests, can be shared openly without compromising security because they’re used solely for verifying signatures – not creating them. 

Private keys must remain confidential since they’re used to create your signature; revealing it would allow others to forge your signature on documents.

Elevating Document Security with Identity Verification

Apart from preventing unauthorized changes to signed documents, digital signatures also serve another crucial role: validating identities online securely. 

Through digital certificates issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs), each signature gets linked back uniquely to its signer – assuring who exactly has signed off on any given contract or agreement within platforms.

Business owners benefiting from esignature solutions

Benefits of Digital Signatures

These advanced electronic signatures offer a secure and efficient way to sign documents electronically, providing several key advantages over traditional e-signatures.

1. Security

Digital signatures come with enhanced security features that safeguard against fraud and unauthorized access. By utilizing encryption technology, digital signatures ensure that the document content remains confidential between the signing parties. This level of security is paramount for small to medium-sized business owners who rely on digital contracts for their services.

2. Authenticity

The authentication process behind a digital signature verifies the signer’s identity using their unique personal identification details, such as PIN or biometric data. This ensures that each party involved in the transaction can trust the legitimacy of both the document and its signatories. The rigorous verification process adds an extra layer of assurance for all parties involved.

3. Non-repudiation

A digitally signed document cannot easily be denied by its signer once it has been executed. Non-repudiation prevents any party from disputing their involvement or agreement after the fact, making these types of signatures incredibly reliable in binding agreements.

This feature is particularly beneficial when dealing with high-stake contracts or sensitive information requiring indisputable proof of participation and consent.

3. Integrity

Digital signatures also guarantee that a document has not been altered after being signed. Any modification made post-signature invalidates it immediately – ensuring complete transparency and integrity throughout its lifecycle. For businesses operating online, this means peace of mind knowing your documents remain untampered from point A to B.

4. Legal Admissibility

In many jurisdictions around the world, digital signatures hold up in court similarly to handwritten ones due to legislation like the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN). Their legal admissibility provides an added advantage by streamlining dispute resolution processes should issues arise during contract enforcement phases – offering yet another reason why transitioning to digital signature solutions like FillFaster and DocuSign can be highly advantageous for modern businesses looking toward future-proofing their operations.

man managing online contracts with digital signature

Importance of Electronic Signatures in Modern Business

Digital signing has revolutionized the way business transactions are conducted. It has streamlined processes, reduced paperwork, and accelerated the pace of business. 

Electronic and digital signatures are recognized as legally binding in many countries and are valid means of signing contracts, agreements, and other documents. As businesses continue to embrace digital transformation, the adoption of electronic signatures has become crucial for efficiency and competitiveness.

💡 Electronic signatures are the new normal, making deals faster and greener by ditching paper for clicks. Services like FillFaster can transform contract handling, letting you close deals instantly—even with clients far away. 

Key Differences: e-Signature vs Digital Signature

As the digital landscape evolves, small to medium-sized businesses are increasingly leveraging technology for contracts and agreements. Understanding the difference between an electronic signature (eSignature) and a digital signature is crucial for ensuring compliance, security, and efficiency in your business operations. 

Here’s a breakdown of their key differences.

Featuree-SignaturesDigital Signatures
Legal ImplicationsVarying levels of enforceabilityGenerally recognized as legally binding, especially with certificates issued by trusted authorities
SecurityBasic to moderate, depending on the methodHigh security using cryptography, encryption, and tamper-proofing
AuthenticationSimple (usernames, passwords, etc.)Advanced (Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), digital certificates)
Use CasesWide range (contracts, forms, agreements)Sensitive documents, high-value transactions, regulated industries
Industry RegulationsMay vary by industry and regionOften subject to specific legal and compliance frameworks

Legal Implications and Security Features

One of the key differences between e-signatures and digital signatures lies in their legal implications and security features. While both are used to sign documents electronically, digital signatures offer a higher level of security and are often subject to more stringent legal requirements. Digital signatures use cryptographic techniques to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the signed document, providing a higher level of assurance compared to standard e-signatures.

Authentication Methods

Another important distinction is the authentication methods used in e-signatures and digital signatures. E-signatures may rely on simple authentication methods such as a username and password, whereas digital signatures use more advanced methods such as Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to verify the identity of the person signing. This difference in authentication methods contributes to the higher level of security provided by digital signatures.

Use Cases and Industry Regulations

The use cases and industry regulations surrounding e-signatures and digital signatures also differ. 

  • E-signatures are commonly used for a wide range of documents, including sales contracts, HR forms, and customer agreements. 
  • Digital signatures are often required for highly sensitive documents, such as legal contracts, financial transactions, and government records. Additionally, certain industries and regions may have specific regulations regarding the use of digital signatures for compliance and legal purposes.

Both are legally solid, but if you’re dealing with sensitive info or need extra authentication, go for the digital signature.

💡 E-signatures are the quick and easy way to sign off on everyday documents, while digital signatures come with heavy security when it matters. 

Young business woman comparing options

How to Choose Between an e-Signature and a Digital Signature

When it comes to choosing between e-signatures and digital signatures, it’s essential to assess your specific requirements and consider various factors before making a decision.

Assessing Your Needs: When Simplicity Meets Security

To navigate through this decision-making process effectively, start by assessing your specific needs based on document sensitivity, legal requirements, and geographic location. Here’s how:

  • eSignatures for Basic Agreements: For less sensitive documents such as basic service agreements or permission slips where convenience outweighs security concerns, an eSignature suffices. These signatures capture the intent of the parties involved without embedding any verification data within the document itself.
  • Digital Signatures for High-Stakes Documents: In contrast, high-value contracts or sensitive financial statements necessitate using digital signatures. Unlike eSignatures, digital signatures come with added layers of security – they encrypt documents and securely attach the signer’s identity verified through certificate-based IDs issued by trusted entities known as Certificate Authorities (GlobalSign explains Certificate Authorities). This makes them legally binding in many jurisdictions worldwide.

Implementation Considerations: Choosing The Right Solution

Selecting between these two types of signatures involves more than just evaluating document sensitivity; it also requires considering implementation aspects like software options available and adherence to local laws regarding electronic signing practices.

Research and compare e-signature and digital signature providers to understand the features, security measures, and compliance standards offered by each. Look for providers that offer solutions tailored to your industry and specific use cases.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Solution

When selecting a solution, consider factors such as security features, ease of use, integration capabilities, compliance with industry regulations, and scalability. Choosing a solution that meets these criteria will ensure that your electronic signature needs are effectively addressed.

Ensure whichever solution you choose complies with local regulations governing electronic signings such as ESIGN Act in the United States or EU’s eIDAS regulation in Europe. Familiarize yourself with these laws via resources like EU Trust Services, ensuring your business operations remain above board while adopting new technologies efficiently.

Streamlining business with digital signature solutions

Streamlining Business Agreements with E-Signatures

The adoption of eSignatures grew rapidly by 2,300% within five years and is projected to increase further by 69% by 2024. 

More and more businesses are benefiting from the seamless signing experience, thanks to digital signature solution providers like FillFaster. These solutions offer businesses a transformative opportunity to eliminate friction in their agreement processes. 

No more snail mail lagging behind or printers throwing tantrums mid-print job. Now we’re talking real-time deal closures with clients sipping coffee miles away from each other. 

  • Faster turnaround times. Eliminate the delays associated with printing, mailing, and waiting for physical signatures. Contracts, proposals, and agreements can be sent, signed, and returned electronically in mere minutes or hours.
  • Reduced Errors and Omissions: Automated e-signature platforms often include features like mandatory fields and pre-filled information, helping to minimize errors and the back-and-forth required for corrections.
  • Improved Collaboration: Many platforms support real-time collaboration, allowing multiple parties to review, edit, and negotiate a document seamlessly before signing. This can be vital in complex deals or in situations where signatories are located in different areas.
  • Enhanced Tracking and Visibility: Gain deeper insights into the status of documents with detailed audit trails and notifications. This transparency helps avoid bottlenecks and ensures that deals stay on track.
  • Remote Accessibility: No need to be chained to a physical office. Documents can be securely accessed and signed on any device with an internet connection, facilitating seamless workflow for both your in-office and remote employees.
  • Eco-Friendly: Drastically reduce the need for paper documents, conserving resources and minimizing environmental impact.
  • Better Customer Experience: Offer clients the convenience of signing electronically from anywhere, improving overall satisfaction and responsiveness.

The Future of Digital Signing is Here

The distinction between eSignatures and digital signatures isn’t just about semantics – it’s about ensuring that you’re selecting the appropriate level of security and legal protection for your business needs. In today’s digitally-driven world, embracing these technologies isn’t a question of “if” but “when.”

If you’re handling everyday agreements and prioritize speed and convenience, eSignatures can significantly streamline your processes.  For situations where ironclad security, non-repudiation, and unquestionable document integrity are paramount, digital signatures are a clear choice.

Whichever path you take, adopting some form of e-signature solution provides undeniable advantages. You’ll reduce your environmental footprint, enhance customer experiences, and accelerate the speed of business. The key is to research carefully, select a reputable provider, and start putting this transformative technology to work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an e-signature legally binding?

Absolutely. E-signatures are recognized as legally binding in many countries when all parties agree to use them.

What is the difference between a signature stamp and an electronic signature?

A stamp replicates your inked autograph while an e-signature can be various forms of online consent marks.

What is the difference between a digital signature and a real signature?

A digital signature is a secure electronic form of signature that uses encryption to verify the signer’s identity and ensure the document hasn’t been tampered with. 

In contrast, a real (or “wet”) signature is a physical handwritten mark placed on a paper document.

What is a valid digital signature?

A valid digital signature must fulfill several criteria:

> Authenticity: Verifiably linked to the signer’s identity.
> Integrity: Guarantees the document has not been altered since signing.
> Non-repudiation: Prevents the signer from later denying their involvement.
> Compliance: May need to conform to specific legal or industry regulations.

FillFaster logo - wide

Streamline Your Signatures with FillFaster

Elevate your document signing process to new heights of efficiency and security. FillFaster offers the ultimate solution for businesses looking to implement e-signatures and digital signatures seamlessly. Whether you’re dealing with high-stake contracts or everyday agreements, FillFaster ensures your documents are signed quickly, securely, and in compliance with legal standards.

Ready to transform how you handle agreements and contracts? 

Contact FillFaster today or reach out via WhatsApp for a streamlined signing experience that propels your business forward.

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