In this article you will learn how to add and remove electronic signatures in Word, Excel or PowerPoint, the main programs of the Microsoft 365 suite. Electronic signatures are a secure and reliable way to authenticate and protect your electronic documents. Plus, we’ll show you how to draw a signature in Word and more. Read on to find out everything you need to know!

What is an electronic signature?

An electronic signature is an electronic authentication seal used to confirm the signatory’s identity and ensure that the information contained in the document has not been modified. It is similar to a handwritten signature, but applies to digital documents, such as e-mails, macros or electronic files.

Electronic signatures for businesses can significantly streamline document signing processes, reduce costs associated with paper handling, improve the security and traceability of signed documents, and facilitate compliance with global legal and business regulations. In addition, it allows greater flexibility and efficiency in the management of agreements and contracts, as it is accessible from anywhere and at any time.

Signature lines in Word and Excel

Microsoft 365 offers the option to add signature lines in Word and Excel, allowing users to digitally sign documents. These signature lines are a convenient way to request signatures on electronic documents without having to print and scan them later.

To add a signature line in Word, simply follow these steps:

  1. Open the Word document in which you want to add the signature line.
  2. Click on the “Insert” tab in the Word toolbar.
  3. Select the “Signature line” option in the “Text” group.
  4. A line will appear in the document. You can move and resize it according to your needs.
  5. Once the signature line has been placed, you can save the document.

In Excel, the process is similar:

  1. Open the Excel file in which you want to add the signature line.
  2. Click on the “Insert” tab in the Excel toolbar.
  3. Select the “Signature line” option in the “Symbols” group.
  4. As in Word, a line will appear in the spreadsheet. You can adjust its position and size.
  5. Once the signature line has been placed, save the file.

Invisible digital signatures in Word, Excel or PowerPoint

In addition to visible signature lines, it is also possible to add invisible electronic signatures in Word, Excel or PowerPoint. These signatures are a more secure way to protect your documents, as they cannot be easily removed or modified.

To add an invisible digital signature in Word, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Word document in which you want to add the invisible digital signature.
  2. Click on the “File” tab in the Word toolbar.
  3. Select the “Information” option and then “Protect document”.
  4. Choose the “Add an invisible digital signature” option from the drop-down menu.
  5. Follow the instructions to select and configure your digital signature certificate.
  6. Once the invisible digital signature is configured, save the document.

In Excel and PowerPoint, the process is similar. Just follow the steps above, but accessing the corresponding options of each program.

Did you find this information useful?

We hope you found this guide helpful in adding or removing an electronic signature in Word or other Microsoft 365 programs. The electronic signature is a powerful tool to ensure the authenticity and integrity of your electronic documents. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to add them below. We will be happy to help you!

Conclusions

In this article, we have learned how to add and remove electronic signatures in Microsoft 365 files. As you can see, it is a simple way to sign documents that can be useful for individuals.

In the case of companies that require the use of electronic signatures on a more regular basis, and even integrated in omnichannel communication processes, there are more robust and secure solutions such as CertySign. We invite you to get to know it.