Alphanumeric Structure

• A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) serial number is typically a unique alphanumeric string.
  
• It may consist of both letters and numbers, depending on the issuing Certifying Authority.
  
• The format is designed to be globally unique for each issued certificate.
  
• The serial number distinguishes one certificate from another in official records.
  
• It helps in tracking, verifying, and managing the certificate.
  

Hexadecimal Representation

• Most DSC serial numbers are represented in hexadecimal format.
  
• They usually contain 16 to 40 characters (e.g., 4F7A12C3B9D2E6F0).
  
• Each pair of characters represents a byte in the serial number.
  
• The format complies with international cryptographic standards.
  
• It may appear as continuous characters or in segments separated by colons.
  

Assigned by Certifying Authority (CA)

• The serial number is generated and assigned by the licensed Certifying Authority.
  
• It is embedded in the certificate when it is created.
  
• The CA ensures that no two DSCs carry the same serial number.
  
• The number is tied to the certificate’s public key and validity.
  
• It is also recorded in the authority’s database for revocation and verification purposes.
  

Displayed in Certificate Details

• Users can view the serial number in the certificate’s properties.
  
• It is listed under the “Details” or “General” tab of the certificate viewer.
  
• The serial number is used for validation and support queries.
  
• It is essential for checking revocation status or authenticity.
  
• It may be required when registering or renewing the DSC.
  

Used in Revocation and Audit Logs

• The serial number is a reference point in the Certificate Revocation List (CRL).
  
• It helps identify and disable compromised or expired certificates.
  
• Auditors and regulatory systems rely on it for digital traceability.
  
• It supports secure record-keeping and regulatory compliance.
  
• Maintaining the serial number ensures accountability in digital usage.