Asked for signing driver in Windows 10, 11?

Question

How to load signed driver into Windows without HLK test? If HLK test is operated, usually how long does it takes?

Answer 1

Hi SV

To load a signed driver into Windows 10 and 11 without undergoing the HLK (Windows Hardware Lab Kit) testing, you can follow these steps:

1. Obtain a Code Signing Certificate: First, you'll need a valid Code Signing Certificate issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA). This certificate is used to sign your driver package.
2. Sign the Driver Package: Sign your driver package using the Code Signing Certificate. This can be done using tools like Signtool, which is part of the Windows SDK. The signing process adds a digital signature to the driver files, indicating that they come from a trusted source.
3. Disable Driver Signature Enforcement: By default, Windows enforces driver signature verification to ensure system stability and security. However, you can temporarily disable driver signature enforcement to install unsigned or self-signed drivers. Here's how:
   • Restart your Windows system.
   • Before Windows starts, press and hold the Shift key and then click on "Restart" from the Power options menu.
   • Windows will restart and present you with the Advanced Startup options.
   • Choose "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings" > "Restart".
   • After the restart, you'll see a list of startup settings. Press F7 or the corresponding key to select "Disable driver signature enforcement".
4. Install the Driver: With driver signature enforcement disabled, you can proceed with the installation of your signed driver. Use the appropriate method for installing drivers on your Windows version, such as Device Manager or an installer package.

Note: Disabling driver signature enforcement is a security risk as it allows the installation of unsigned or unverified drivers. It's recommended to re-enable driver signature enforcement after installing the necessary drivers.

Regarding the HLK testing, the duration of the testing process can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the driver, the testing environment, and the resources available. The HLK tests can take several hours or even days to complete, especially for more complex drivers. It involves automated tests, compatibility checks, and manual validation.

It's important to note that HLK testing is highly recommended to ensure driver compatibility, stability, and adherence to Microsoft's guidelines. Going through HLK testing helps provide assurance that your driver is properly designed and compatible with Windows systems. While it may involve time and effort, it helps ensure the quality and reliability of your driver for the end-users.

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