DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ESIGN, DSC, & ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE
If you have ever wondered about eSign vs DSC, you are not alone. Many people also compare eSign vs DSC vs eSignature, and it becomes confusing when terms like digital stamping and estamping appear.
All these tools help people sign documents faster. However, each type of electronic signature works differently and follows specific legal rules under India's IT Act, 2000.
Understanding the difference helps you choose the right method and avoid problems when a digital signature certificate is actually required.
What is eSign?
eSign allows you to sign documents online using your Aadhaar OTP. You do not need a USB token, card, or special device. Your phone or computer is enough
.
In many eSign vs DSC discussions, eSign is seen as the simpler option because it is easy and government-approved.
Why eSign is useful1. You can sign PDFs, forms, and agreements in minutes
2. It works well for government forms and KYC
3. It is legally valid under the IT Act, 2000
4. It is a simple form of electronic signature
eSign also works smoothly with workflows that include digital stamping and estamping, especially in online services.
What Is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
A digital signature certificate is a stronger and more secure signing method.
It is usually stored on a USB token or smart card and uses encryption to keep documents safe.
When comparing eSign vs DSC vs eSignature, the DSC is clearly meant for high-security needs.
Why DSC is different1. It is used for income tax filing, GST, tenders, and company compliance
2. It provides strong security and traceability
3. It is fully recognized under the IT Act, 2000
Because of this, in many eSign vs DSC situations, businesses choose DSC for critical filings.
Government portals and corporate systems often require a digital signature certificate along with digital stamping for added authenticity.
A DSC is more advanced than a basic electronic signature, and in several cases, it is mandatory.
What Is an Electronic Signature?
An electronic signature is a general term. It includes any digital way of signing, such as:
1. Typing your name
2. Clicking an “I Agree” button
3. Uploading a scanned signature
Electronic signatures are flexible and easy to use. Unlike a digital signature certificate, they may not always be suitable for sensitive legal filings. But they work perfectly for approvals, contracts, HR paperwork, and business agreements.
In most eSign vs DSC vs eSignature comparisons, electronic signatures are preferred when speed and convenience are the priority.
Where Digital Stamping and Estamping Fit In?
Many users hear about digital stamping and e-stamping while completing documents online.
* Estamping replaces physical stamp paper with secure online stamps
* Digital stamping helps automate stamp duty in digital systems
Today, many processes combine eSign, estamping, and digital stamping so documents remain legal without paperwork.
Real-Life Examples
1. Using eSign for KYC and government forms
2. Filing GST or tax returns using a digital signature certificate
3. Signing business approvals with an electronic signature
4. Creating documents that include digital stamping or estamping
5. Comparing options and deciding eSign vs DSC based on the type of document
Conclusion
The discussion about eSign vs DSC vs eSignature is really about choosing the right tool.
1. An eSign platform like
esign.network is convenient, quick, and legally valid
2. DSC offers the highest security using a digital signature certificate
3. Electronic signatures are simple and ideal for day-to-day documents
With the help of digital stamping and estamping, India now has a strong and efficient digital signing ecosystem.
Choosing wisely helps you avoid rework, stay compliant, and keep every document legally safe
