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An electronic signature (e-signature) is a method of digitally signing a legal document through the use of a computer. Just like an ink signature, it allows the signing party to authenticate their agreement in any contract or legal document without having to use a physical pen.

Electronic signature providers give users access to PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) protocols that use a public and private key to verify if documents have been signed by their intended recipients. When a document is signed using a private key, a public key sent to the receiver is used to verify if the signature is authentic. This adds a layer of security to the process.

Electronic signatures can be considered superior to their inked counterparts because they allow a signing party to instantly attach their signature to any document anywhere in the world. There's no need to physically print a document or use any other resources apart from some software, the internet, and a computer. Thus, a physical presence or document is not needed at all.

An electronic signature consists of an identification code and password used simultaneously to sign a document. Electronic signatures must be used by the owner only, with some using the owner's biometrics to authenticate the signature.

There are three main types of electronic signatures:

• SES (Simple Electronic Signatures) – Does not use authentication and responsibility is based on both parties.
• AES (Advanced Electronic Signatures) – Uses certificates to identify users.
• QES (Qualified Electronic Signatures) – Certificates based on public keys.

Electronic signatures are legally binding, just like regular signatures created with ink. The E-Sign Act, passed in 2000, set the guidelines for electronic signatures and provided e-signatures with the same authority as a regular ink signature. However, electronic signatures cannot be used with last wills and testaments.

Electronic signatures may be considered more secure than ink signatures because many providers offer varying degrees of authentication to ensure that a signature isn't forged. Most people can't distinguish between fake or real signatures, but computers can detect and reject a forgery with digital ciphers and certificates. Therefore, it is a great way to prevent forgeries from occurring.

• Electronic signatures: Any form of signature transmitted electronically, either digitally written or created with software.
• Digital signatures: Any form of electronic signature with features that prevent forgeries, such as certificates, ciphers, security protocols, etc.

Users of electronic signatures may use specialized software that facilitates the addition of a signature to documents and its decoding and encryption by the recipient. In most cases, it's as easy as downloading software, uploading the document, and clicking on "sign."

Many countries accept electronic signatures as legally binding, but one should still consult with a legal practitioner before e-signing in an unfamiliar country. Most of the laws surrounding electronic signatures are pretty standard, but there are still specific provisions that apply to certain locales.

Any electronic process or symbol directly linked to a record that a person intends to sign can be considered an electronic signature.

For the purposes of technicality, yes, it can—as long as the typed name is within the signature line of a document, it counts as a legal electronic signature. There is no binding convention that mandates a signature to look like the normal ink signatures we are used to seeing on other documents. As long as the context is correct, any symbol within a signature line can be considered an electronic signature.