When you apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) in India, you’ll often hear the term “USB Crypto Token” or simply “DSC token”. But what exactly is this device? Why is it mandatory in many cases? And how is it different from soft tokens or cloud-based signing?
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about USB tokens, how they work, and why they’re essential for securing your digital signature.
🔐 What Is a USB Crypto Token?
A USB Crypto Token is a hardware device, similar in size to a regular pen drive, used to store your Digital Signature Certificate securely. It contains:
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Your private key
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Your digital certificate (DSC)
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A secure chip that performs cryptographic operations within the device
The private key never leaves the token, making it tamper-proof and ideal for secure digital signing.
🛠 How It Works
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After your DSC is approved, it’s downloaded directly into the token via a secure tool.
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To sign a document, the token must be connected to your computer.
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The signing software accesses the DSC within the token and signs the file without exposing your private key.
✅ This ensures the highest level of security, especially for legally valid digital signatures.
🧾 Why Is a USB Token Required for DSC?
✅ Compliance with CCA Guidelines
The Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) in India mandates that Class 2 and Class 3 DSCs be securely stored in FIPS-certified cryptographic devices — like USB tokens.
✅ Prevents Unauthorized Use
Without the token and its password, no one can access your DSC — even if your system is compromised.
✅ Required for Legal & Regulatory Uses
For signing:
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Income Tax Returns (ITR)
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MCA filings (ROC forms)
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Trademark & Patent filings
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eTendering, eProcurement portals
… the DSC must be token-based
🧱 Hardware Token vs Soft Token: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Hardware Token (USB) | Soft Token (File-Based) |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Medium | Physical USB crypto token | Stored on local computer |
| Private Key Security | Stored in secure hardware chip | Stored on disk (can be copied) |
| CCA Compliance | ✅ Yes (Mandatory for Class 3) | ❌ No |
| Portability | High (carry in pocket) | Limited to specific device |
| Usage | Ideal for legal & government use | Suitable only for informal uses |
💡 Is a Token Included with DSC?
At EVERSIGN, we offer:
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DSC-only packages (if you already have a token)
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DSC + USB Token bundles (for first-time applicants)
💬 Note: A USB crypto token can be reused for issuing a new DSC, even for a different individual or organization. A token can hold upto four certificates at a time.
🔍 Token Brands Approved by CCA
We only use government-approved FIPS-compliant tokens from trusted brands like:
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ePass 2003 Auto (HYP2003)
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WatchData ProxKey
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TrustKey
These are compatible with all major DSC uses — Income Tax, GST, MCA21, DGFT, etc.
🔐 Final Thoughts
A USB crypto token is not just a storage device — it’s the backbone of DSC security. It ensures that your signature is protected, legally valid, and compliant with Indian IT law.
Whether you’re an individual, business owner, or government contractor — using a DSC without a token is not just risky, it’s often not allowed.
🔗 Need a DSC with USB Token?
EVERSIGN offers:
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Class 3 Individual & Organization DSCs
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Licensed tokens
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Fast doorstep delivery across India
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Support for Aadhaar-based or PAN-based issuance
👉 Apply online or speak to our experts to get started.
