AusweisApp

Secure identification with the online ID function

✓ Prove your identity clearly and securely online
✓ Simply submit applications digitally
✓ Save time and effort when dealing with authorities and business matters

With the online ID function of the ID card, the electronic residence permit and the eID card, you can prove your identity securely and beyond doubt on the Internet and at citizen terminals.

In addition, this function can be used to reliably determine the identity of your counterpart on the network.

The AusweisApp is an application that Governikus is continuously developing on behalf of the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).

Further information on AusweisApp can be found at ausweisapp.the (German) Federal Government.de

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3 good reasons for the AusweisApp

Privacy

The transmission of the data always takes place with end-to-end encryption, so that no third party can read your personal data.

Two-factor authentication

This is used to prove the identity of users by combining possession and knowledge, in this case an ID card and PIN.

Efficiency

Identification is quick and easy - from the comfort of your own home. In companies, it ensures fast processes and high data quality.

Development of the AusweisApp

Under the name "Citizen Client", the AusweisApp was introduced in the same way as the new ID card in credit card format to enable the use of the online ID card function and thus digital authentication . In 2014, an important change took place: the app was completely revised, rebuilt as an open source application and further developed by the Bremen-based software manufacturer Governikus on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Information Security (BSI).

Since then, it has undergone several technological steps, including mobile use via NFC-enabled smartphone, multi-platform capability (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux) and integration into the central BundID login service.

In 2023, the federal government's eID software was given a visual overhaul and appeared in a new, modern design. Development is progressing steadily - as is acceptance among the population. The eGovernment MONITOR 2024 recently showed that the online ID card, which can be used via the AusweisApp , is gaining in importance. And the trend is increasing: Governikus' eID servers have recorded around 2,136,077 eID transactions via the BundID this year alone.

If you want to stay informed about the AusweisApp and other solutions, subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.governikus.de/newsletteranmeldung/

Milestones

2010

The beginning

Launch of the first AusweisApp (under the name "Bürger-Client") for using the online ID card function.

2014

Further development

Relaunch as an open source application, developed by Governikus on behalf of the BSI

2017

eIDAS Regulation

The German online ID function of the ID card is notified as having a "high" level of trust for cross-border use in accordance with the EU Regulation
Basis for use in other EU countries too

2017

Online Access Act

Obliges the (German) Federal Government, states and municipalities to provide their administrative services digitally
Acts as a driver for service providers to integrate the AusweisApp and increases online services for users

2020

Growth

Integration in central administration portals such as BundID leads to rising transaction figures

From 2021

Adjustments

Expansion of services and simplification

Since 2025

Outlook

EUDI wallet pilot projects underway in Germany
AusweisApp remains central component for digital authentication on federal and state portals as well as with private providers (e.g. banks, Postident, online banking)

How the AusweisApp works

The AusweisApp is software that you install on your computer/smartphone/tablet to identify yourself online with your ID card, electronic residence permit or eID card. It is available for the most commonly used operating systems and runs with all common web browsers.

The AusweisApp offers you an integrated self-disclosure function in which you can view the data stored on your online ID card. You can also use the Check device and ID card function to find out whether your smartphone meets the technical requirements for reading the ID card. In the overview, you will also find your available services and can manage your PIN. You can also set up the app to suit your needs in the settings and manage your card readers. If errors occur during use, you have the option of saving an error log and sending it to support. All these functionalities are also included in the AusweisApp SDK.

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More flexibility with the online ID function

Thanks to the online ID function, AusweisApp offers more flexibility as well as time and cost savings. For example, you can identify yourself online to deal with the authorities from home.

Proof of identity: Prove your identity online, e.g. to open a bank account on the Internet.
Login: Use your online ID card as an alternative to various user names and passwords on the Internet, e.g. in online stores.
Age verification: Prove your age online, e.g. when gambling online.
Form function: Use the online ID function to fill out forms and applications conveniently at home. By verifying your data, you can now also submit legally binding digital applications to the Citizens' Registration Office.
Anonymous login: With the anonymous login it is possible to log in to a service provider with the online ID and to be recognized without the service provider knowing your personal data.

Further products at a glance

Governikus ID Crucis enables verifiable approvals from multiple applicants - at different times and on different devices.

Learn more

Governikus ID Panstar enables simple and secure identification of citizens and customers to your services using the online ID function.

Learn more

Governikus ID Mercury enables the connection of various eIDs and modules for interoperable user accounts.

Learn more

The identification service, designed in accordance with the German ID Card Act, enables the online ID function to be integrated quickly via web services for both online and on-site scenarios.

Learn more

Governikus eID Service enables the use of Governikus ID Panstar as Software as a Service (SaaS) in accordance with the German ID Card Act (PAuswG) with its own authorization certificate.

Learn more

The OpenPGP key can be used to securely encrypt email communication and protect messages and files from unauthorized third parties.

Learn more

Free whitepaper

Identity in the digital age

In our free white paper, we shed light on the development, challenges and opportunities associated with the establishment of secure and trustworthy digital identities. It also analyzes existing digital identification systems, looks at the legal framework and international standards and discusses acceptance in society.

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Governikus Blog

The weekly dose of digitization

On our blog, we address current developments in the field of secure identities, provide information about projects and let our experts report on new solutions - read our latest blog articles.

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Governikus Academy

Your knowledge is our mission

Our Academy courses are designed to expand and deepen your knowledge of the Governikus portfolio. It is aimed at all those who are interested in Governikus products or who will be working with them in the future.

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