Object Signing allows users to run the most useful Java applets available. If the user allows it, applets can remain on the user's hard drive, remember the user's preferences, automatically install software, and save time by automatically entering the user's data. Context helps users make informed security decisions. Administration features allow individual users to manage their own security settings and administrators to manage security settings across the enterprise. Netscape provides context and administration features through Communicator and enables enterprise administration through Mission Control.
Certificates allow unknown parties on the Web to trust each other and share private information.
Netscape client and server products utilize ISO standard X.509 version 3 certificates. Certificates provide a more flexible and reliable means of identification than user names and passwords. Certificates contain each owner's public key and identification information. The corresponding private key is located on the owner's computer or server. SSL is the de facto standard protocol for authentication, encryption, and data integrity when clients and servers communicate over the Internet.