The Power of AES: Why the Advanced Electronic Signature is the standard for business

In today’s digital-first economy, the "digital signature" is no longer a luxury, it’s a daily necessity. But as we move further, simply "signing" a PDF isn't enough. For SMEs, freelancers, and accountants, the Advanced Electronic Signature (AES) has become the gold standard for balancing security with speed. At Banqup, we’re unravelling the mystery of AES and showing you why it’s the engine behind your most important business transactions.

What exactly is an Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)?

What exactly is an Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)?

In the world of digital compliance, AES isn't just a fancy term; it’s a specific legal category defined by the European eIDAS regulation. To qualify as "Advanced," a signature must go far beyond a simple digital image of your handwriting.

According to the latest standards, an AES must meet four strict criteria

Uniquely Linked

The signature is tied exclusively to the person signing. It’s a digital fingerprint that belongs to you and no one else.

Signer Identification

The process must be able to prove who actually signed the document. This eliminates the "it wasn't me" defence in business disputes.

Sole Control

The data used to create the signature must be under the exclusive control of the signer (for example, via a private mobile device or a secure login).

Tamper-Proof

The signature is linked to the document in such a way that any change made to the text after signing is immediately detectable. This protects the integrity of your contracts.

Example of digital signed document

How does AES work?

Most AES signatures today utilise Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). Think of it as a digital "passport" issued after your identity has been verified. By using asymmetric encryption (a private key to sign and a public key to verify), Banqup ensures that your signature is nearly impossible to forge.

Why should your business prioritise AES?

While a Standard Electronic Signature (SES) might be fine for a quick internal memo, AES is the workhorse for external business.

  • Speed up your workflow: No more printing, scanning, or waiting for the post. Finalize B2B contracts, lease agreements, and service level agreements (SLAs) in seconds.

  • Legal Peace of Mind: Because AES identifies the signer and protects document integrity, it carries significantly more weight in court than a simple digital mark.

  • Cost Reduction: Paper-based administration is a massive drain on resources. AES eliminates the costs of paper, ink, and physical storage.

Signing with itsme and Banqup

A frequent question we hear is: "Can I sign with itsme?" The answer is a resounding yes. In the Belgian and European markets, itsme has become a vital tool for digital identification. When you use itsme in combination with our sign solution, you create a seamless and highly secure signing flow. It allows you to verify your identity instantly, ensuring that your AES meets all legal requirements with the tap of a button.


The Banqup approach: security meets simplicity

As we reflect on the digital shift of the past few years, one thing is clear: businesses that embrace secure automation grow faster. Banqup isn't just a platform; it’s your partner in staying compliant and professional.

By integrating AES into your daily routine through our sign solution, you aren't just "following the law"—you are building trust with your clients and partners. You’re showing them that your business is modern, secure, and ready for the future.

Is your administration still living in the past? Discover how our AES solution can transform your workflow and give you the legal certainty you need.