QSCD (Qualified Signature Creation Device)

A QSCD (Qualified Signature Creation Device) is a hardware or software device meeting the strict requirements of Annex II of eIDAS for the creation of qualified signatures (QES). It guarantees that the signature private key is generated within the device, never leaves it in clear, and can only be used by the legitimate holder. Certified HSMs and smart cards are common forms of QSCD. Cloud signature uses virtual QSCDs hosted in certified HSMs.