> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.certinext.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.certinext.io/documentation/certificate-lifecycle-management/ordering-a-certificate/as-a-customer/ordering-smime-certificates.md).

# Ordering SMIME Certificates

#### What is an S/MIME Certificate?

An S/MIME certificate is a digital security credential that is attached to your email account. Once installed in your email application, it does two important things:

•        Digitally signs your outgoing emails so recipients can verify that the email truly came from you (not an impersonator).

•        Encrypts emails between you and other S/MIME users, so no one else can read them in transit.