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DSC Troubleshooting

Quick checks for the most common DSC problems. Work through them in order.

Last reviewed:

Token not detected

  1. Install the driver for your token brand (printed on the token).
  2. Plug directly into a rear USB port, not a hub.
  3. Restart after installing drivers.
  4. Open the token's management software. If the certificate shows there, the token works and the issue is with the portal utility.

Portal can't find the certificate

  • Income Tax portal: install and start the emBridge utility the portal offers.
  • GST portal: install and start emSigner.
  • eProcurement portals: follow the DSC setup instructions on the portal's help pages; requirements change.
  • Close other applications that may be using the token.

Certificate expired

Expired certificates don't appear for signing. Check the validity dates in the token software, then apply for a new DSC and register it on each portal.

PAN mismatch

Portals match the PAN inside the certificate with your account. A certificate for a different person or organisation won't register.

Wrong password / locked token

Stop after one or two failed attempts and contact your provider. Some tokens can be reset, but the certificate may need to be re-issued.

Still stuck? Message us on WhatsApp with the portal name and the exact error text.

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DSC Token Not Detected? A Step-by-Step Fix List

"Token not found" is the most common DSC complaint. Work through these checks in order; most problems are solved by step 3. Last reviewed: 27 October 2026 1. Identify the token and install its driver Each token brand needs its own driver. The brand is printed on the token. Get the driver from the token maker, your Certifying Authority, or your provider. Avoid random download sites. 2. Use a rear USB port Front ports and hubs can give unstable power. Plug the token directly into the computer. 3. Restart, then open the token software If the token's own software shows your certificate after a restart, the token works. Any remaining issue is with the portal's signing utility. 4. Start the portal's signing utility Income Tax e-filing uses emBridge . The GST portal uses emSigner . eProcurement portals publish their own DSC setup steps in their help sections. 5. Check validity and PAN An expired certificate won't appear. Portals also check that the PAN ins...

DSC Token Not Detected? A Step-by-Step Fix List

"Token not found" is the most common DSC complaint. Work through these checks in order; most problems are solved by step 3. Last reviewed: 27 October 2026 1. Identify the token and install its driver Each token brand needs its own driver. The brand is printed on the token. Get the driver from the token maker, your Certifying Authority, or your provider. Avoid random download sites. 2. Use a rear USB port Front ports and hubs can give unstable power. Plug the token directly into the computer. 3. Restart, then open the token software If the token's own software shows your certificate after a restart, the token works. Any remaining issue is with the portal's signing utility. 4. Start the portal's signing utility Income Tax e-filing uses emBridge . The GST portal uses emSigner . eProcurement portals publish their own DSC setup steps in their help sections. 5. Check validity and PAN An expired certificate won't appear. Portals also check that the PAN ins...

Signing vs Encryption Certificate: Which Do You Need?

Many people pay for a combo DSC they don't need, while bidders sometimes buy signing-only and get stuck. Here's how to decide. Last reviewed: 27 October 2026 What each certificate does Signing Encryption Purpose Proves who signed, and that the document wasn't changed Locks a document so only the intended receiver can open it Typical use ITR, GST, MCA, EPFO, signing PDFs eTender bid encryption and some secure exchanges Quick rule Filing returns and forms only: signing is usually enough. Bidding on portals that encrypt bids: get signing & encryption . Unsure: check the portal's help page or the tender document before buying. Compare options on our Buy DSC page. References Controller of Certifying Authorities eProcurement Punjab
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