SES, AES, and QES: Types of electronic signatures explained

In today's digital landscape, where remote work and online transactions are the norm, the need for secure and legally binding electronic signatures has never been more critical. Electronic signatures have revolutionized business operations, enabling seamless contract execution, enhanced security, and streamlined workflows.

However, it's crucial to distinguish between electronic signatures and digital signatures. While often used interchangeably, they possess distinct characteristics. Digital signatures employ robust encryption techniques to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the signed document, while electronic signatures encompass a broader range of methods, including typed names, initials, and even clicking "I agree."

Within the realm of electronic signatures, three primary types stand out: Simple Electronic Signatures (SES), Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES), and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES). Each type offers varying levels of security and legal recognition, tailored to specific use cases and regulatory requirements. Understanding these distinctions is paramount when selecting the appropriate electronic signature solution for your business needs.

The three types of electronic signatures

‍Electronic signatures serve as digital equivalents of handwritten signatures, offering a convenient, secure method to sign documents electronically.

However, from SES to AES and QES, the three main types of electronic signature all offer varying levels of security and legal recognition. Ultimately, they cater to different business needs and regulatory requirements.

What are Simple Electronic Signatures (SES)?

Simple Electronic Signatures (SES), also known as Basic Electronic Signatures, are the most basic form of electronic signatures. They can include scanned images of signatures or even just a typed name. SES involve a basic electronic process, such as clicking a button or typing your name, to indicate consent or approval.

Due to their ease of use and accessibility, SES are ideal for internal communications, low-risk agreements, and informal transactions. However, they provide limited assurance of the signer's identity and intent, making them less suitable for high-stakes agreements.

For example, Collier.Simon uses SES for onboarding new employees and for low-risk agreements such as Statements of Work (SOWs). By integrating SES through platforms like Dropbox Sign, they've streamlined their signing process, resulting in improved efficiency and higher client satisfaction. This simple yet effective approach has allowed them to focus more on their core business activities while ensuring essential agreements are handled swiftly and securely. Read more to see how SES can benefit your business.

What are Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES)?

Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) offer a higher level of security compared to Simple Electronic Signatures (SES). They ensure that the signer's identity is uniquely linked to the signature and that the signature is created using data under the signer's sole control. It also ensures that any subsequent changes to the signed data are detectable.

AES also incorporate additional layers of security, such as encryption, to protect the integrity of the signed document. This security ensures that any alterations made after signing are easily detectable, preserving the document's authenticity and preventing tampering.

Due to their robust security measures, AES are ideal for high-stakes transactions that require stringent verification and legal compliance, such as financial agreements and formal contracts. However, this level of security requires more complex identity verification processes, which can be time-consuming. Dropbox Sign addresses this challenge by incorporating two-factor authentication (2FA) to ensure secure identity verification.

For businesses dealing with sensitive information, AES provide unparalleled peace of mind and legal assurance. Vermouth Beauty, for instance, uses AES for handling investment documents, legal work, NDAs, and hiring paperwork. By utilizing Dropbox Sign’s advanced security features, they ensure that all transactions are secure and legally binding, offering both the company and their clients confidence and peace of mind.

What are Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES)?

‍Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) represent the highest level of electronic signature security and legal recognition. QES are created using a qualified electronic signature creation device that meets specific technical and legal requirements. They are also issued by a trusted third-party certification authority, which verifies the signer's identity and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

QES is essential for transactions that demand the utmost level of trust and legal enforceability, such as government documents and high-value contracts.

QES are necessary for high-value transactions, regulatory filings, and legal documents. For example, VolitionRx uses QES for financially and medically sensitive data. With Dropbox Sign, they meet the highest security standards and legal requirements, ensuring their documents are securely and legally signed.

Understanding the different types of electronic signatures and their respective characteristics is crucial for businesses seeking to adopt digital signature solutions. By choosing the appropriate electronic signature type based on the level of security and legal requirements, businesses can ensure the integrity, authenticity, and enforceability of their electronic transactions.

Comparing SES, AES, and QES

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As we've explored, electronic signatures offer numerous benefits, including enhanced convenience, security, and efficiency in business transactions. However, selecting the right type of electronic signature is essential to ensure the appropriate level of security and legal compliance.

Whether you require a simple electronic signature (SES) for basic agreements, an advanced electronic signature (AES) for transactions with higher security demands, or a qualified electronic signature (QES) for legally sensitive documents, Dropbox Sign provides a comprehensive solution to meet your needs.

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By understanding these key differences, businesses can select the appropriate electronic signature type to meet their specific needs: Balancing ease of use, security, and legal requirements.

Why you should choose Dropbox Sign or the Dropbox Sign API

Dropbox Sign offers a user-friendly interface, robust security measures, and a range of features designed to get documents signed, fast. The Dropbox Sign web app means you can get started straightaway, using our online platform to send and request eSignatures to meet your business’ needs.

For businesses looking to integrate electronic signatures directly into their applications or platforms, Dropbox Sign API provides an easy-to-deploy solution. With minimal developer support needed, the API allows you to embed eSignatures directly into your app or website for a seamless customer experience. As part of the setup, you can customize and automate the signing process too—enhancing workflow efficiency and providing a tailored experience for end-users.

Either way, by choosing Dropbox Sign you gain access to a secure, legally binding, and user-friendly electronic signature solution trusted by businesses of all sizes:

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“Our experience with Dropbox Sign has been nothing but positive. The integration was simple and it’s had a significant impact on our business, driving efficiency and increasing visibility into the deal process for customers inside the Flippa platform, and within our team.”

- Blake Hutchison, Flippa CEO

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Read more about how Flippa helped customers close $6 million in deals with an eSignature workflow, supported by the Dropbox Sign API.

FAQs on electronic signatures

Electronic signatures have gained immense popularity in modern business transactions, but they can sometimes be confusing. We clarify some of the most common questions surrounding electronic signatures below:

How many types of electronic signatures are there?

There are three primary types of electronic signatures: Simple Electronic Signatures (SES), Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES), and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES). Each type offers varying levels of security and legal recognition.

What is the difference between SES, AES, and QES?

The key differences lie in their security levels, legal recognition, and use cases. SES are the simplest and least secure, AES offer higher security with identity verification, and QES provide the highest security and legal equivalence to handwritten signatures.

What is the most secure type of electronic signature?

QES is considered the most secure type of electronic signature as it meets stringent legal requirements and provides the highest level of assurance. QES is based on a qualified certificate issued by a trusted third party, ensuring the signer's identity has been thoroughly verified.

When should I use a QES?

QES is recommended for sensitive documents or transactions that require a high level of security and legal compliance, such as financial contracts, legal agreements, or government forms.

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

While often used interchangeably, digital and electronic signatures are distinct concepts. A digital signature is a mathematical algorithm used to authenticate the identity of the signer and ensure the integrity of the document. An electronic signature, on the other hand, refers to any electronic data attached to a document to indicate the signer's approval.

Get secure, legally binding eSignatures with Dropbox Sign

Choosing the right type of electronic signature is crucial for ensuring the security and legality of your business’ digital transactions.

Dropbox Sign and the Dropbox Sign API offer a comprehensive solution for all your eSignature needs, providing secure and user-friendly options for SES, AES, and QES.

For more information, discover everything you need to know about Dropbox Sign features, or get in touch to speak 1-on-1 with a Dropbox Sign expert.