XAdES

XAdES (short for "XML Advanced Electronic Signatures") is a set of extensions to XML-DSig recommendation making it suitable for advanced electronic signature.

Description

While XML-DSig is a general framework for digitally signing documents, XAdES specifies precise profiles of XML-DSig for use with advanced electronic signature in the meaning of European Union Directive 1999/93/EC. One important benefit from XAdES is that electronically signed documents can remain valid for long periods, even if underlying cryptographic algorithms are broken.

Profiles

XAdES defines six profiles (forms) differing in protection level offered.