Description
A Digital Signature Token, also known as a DSC Token, stores a digital signature certificate securely on a hardware device, like a USB token or smart card. It stores the DSC private key and protects its accessibility with a PIN-based security system. Downloading the DSC in a Token is mandatory.
Digital Signature Token: Everything You Need to Know
In today’s digital-first world, professionals and businesses rely on secure tools to authenticate their identity and protect data integrity. A Digital Signature Token, also known as a DSC Token or DSC Dongle, plays a crucial role in digital authentication. Individuals and organisations across industries use this USB device to store DSC and sign documents.
What Is a Digital Signature Token?
A Digital Signature Token securely stores a digital certificate and private key. Users insert this token, usually a USB device or smart card, into their computers to sign documents or perform secure transactions. The token uses encryption to confirm the signer’s identity and protect the signed data from tampering.
Many professionals, including chartered accountants, company secretaries, and legal experts, trust DSC Tokens for filing documents on government portals. The hardware device and PIN-based access control of the token add an extra layer of security, making it almost impossible to forge a digital signature.
How a DSC Token Works?
A DSC Token works by storing your private key and digital certificate on a tamper-proof chip. When you digitally sign a document, the token uses the private key to generate a unique hash. Systems then verify this hash with the public key embedded in your certificate.
Users never expose their private key because the hardware keeps it secure. Unlike software-based signatures, DSC Dongles protect credentials with physical security. This method reduces the risk of hacking, phishing, or unauthorised access.
Types of Digital Signature Certificates Stored in DSC Tokens
Certifying Authorities issue different classes of digital signature certificates based on usage:
- Class 3 DSC: Most professionals use Class 3 certificates for income tax filing, MCA21, GST, e-tendering, and EPFO applications. These certificates offer the highest level of security.
- DGFT DSC: Importers and exporters use this certificate for filing documents with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
While all these certificates serve different purposes, the DSC Token acts as the secure container that holds them.
Why You Need a DSC Dongle
You need a DSC Dongle if you regularly interact with government portals, sign legal documents digitally, or want to increase data security. For example, Income Tax Portal, GST Portal, MCA Portal, etc, users should have their own DSC dongle to authenticate their identity.
Businesses use these tokens to authorise transactions, encrypt data, and avoid identity fraud. Users participating in online tenders and auctions require a DSC dongle.
Moreover, many online platforms now mandate digital signatures for secure access. As a result, DSC Tokens have become essential tools for compliance and cybersecurity.
Benefits of Using a Digital Signature Token
Using a Digital Signature Token provides multiple benefits:
- Security: The token keeps your private key inside a secure chip, eliminating unauthorised access.
- Authentication: You can verify your identity online with just a few clicks.
- Legality: Digital signatures created using DSC Tokens hold legal validity under IT laws.
- Convenience: You can digitally sign documents anywhere with a compatible system.
- Efficiency: You reduce paperwork and save time by signing files digitally.
Furthermore, you eliminate the need for scanning, printing, and physically delivering signed documents. This advantage not only saves costs but also helps the environment.
How to Use a DSC Token
To use a DSC Token, follow these steps:
- Purchase a new token from this product page.
- Plug the token into your computer’s USB port.
- Install the USB token driver. The driver is available inside the token.
- New users should download their DSC into the token first.
- Access the signing portal (such as GST, Income Tax, or MCA).
- Select the certificate from the token when prompted.
- Digitally sign the document or form.
Because most platforms recognise DSC Dongles automatically, users rarely face compatibility issues. Even if you face any issue, feel free to write to us ([email protected]) for online support.
Choosing the Right DSC Token
While purchasing a DSC token, you should take care of two things. Firstly, choose a reputable brand with high compatibility. Secondly, purchase it from a trusted site (like Apicountry) that provides both token and after-sales support.
Reputable brands like ePass2003, ProxKey, and HYP2003 dominate the market. These brands offer tokens with high compatibility, strong encryption, and easy driver installation.
We have been dealing with Digital Signature and DSC Tokens since 2007. We not only sell but do provide after-sales support. In case you get stuck on a technical problem, we will try our best to help you.
Factors to Consider:
- Security Level: Choose tokens with FIPS certification.
- Compatibility: Ensure the token works with your OS and browser.
- Vendor Support: Opt for vendors who provide driver updates and technical support.
- DSC Token Price: Compare prices of different brands in one place.
If you’re buying in bulk for a company or team or reselling, visit our token bulk pricing page.
DSC Token Price
The DSC Token Price varies based on several factors, including brand, validity period, and rating type. On average, you can expect the following pricing:
Token Name | Price | Validity | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
ePass2003 | 380 – 650 | 10 Years | 5 (*****) |
HYP2003 | 380 – 650 | 10 Years | 5 (*****) |
Proxkey | 360 – 630 | 10 Years | 4 (****) |
mToken | 340 – 610 | 3 Years | 2 (**) |
DSC Token for Government Portals
Most Indian government portals now require DSC Tokens for authentication and document signing:
- GST Portal: Users file returns and respond to notices using Class 3 DSC Tokens.
- MCA21: Directors and company secretaries use DSC for annual filings.
- Income Tax Portal: Professionals and taxpayers sign forms digitally.
- EPFO: Employers authenticate data submissions using a DSC Dongle.
- e-Tendering Portals: Bidders use tokens to submit proposals securely.
Because these portals enforce strict guidelines, you must use a properly issued and recognised DSC Token.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While DSC Tokens usually function smoothly, you may face some common issues:
- Token not detected: Ensure your drivers are installed and the USB port is working.
- Certificate not showing: Check the certificate expiry date and system compatibility.
- Browser errors: Use Internet Explorer or configure your browser to recognise Java-based signing tools.
If issues persist, contact us or email us for technical support.
Note: ePass2003Auto Tokens are now re-branded as HYP2003 Tokens. Hence, for all orders of ePass2003Auto, you will receive HYP2003 Tokens only.
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love the service
Tahira –
taken dsc for tender filing
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work smoothly in eprocurement tender
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just go for it
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good experience