Installing IPA files on iPhone no longer requires a PC, Mac, or jailbreak. With eSign direct install, users can sign and install apps directly on their iPhone or iPad using Safari and on-device tools. This guide explains how the method works, what you need, and what risks to understand before using it.
What Is eSign Direct Install?
eSign direct install is an on-device IPA signing method. It allows users to install unsigned apps by:
- Installing eSign through a configuration profile
- Trusting a temporary developer certificate
- Signing IPA files locally on the iPhone or iPad
This approach removes the need for a desktop computer and works on modern iOS versions.
What You Need Before Installing
Before starting, make sure you have:
- An iPhone or iPad running a recent iOS version
- Safari browser (required for profile installation)
- Internet connection
- IPA files saved in the Files app
No PC, Mac, or jailbreak is required.
How eSign Direct Install Works
The process relies on enterprise-style certificates and on-device signing:
- A signed eSign build installs through Safari
- iOS asks you to trust the developer profile
- eSign imports a certificate file (P12)
- eSign signs IPA files locally
- iOS installs the signed app on the home screen
This entire workflow runs directly on the device.
Step-by-Step: Install eSign Directly on iPhone
Step 1: Install the eSign Profile
- Open Safari
- Visit a trusted eSign distribution page
- Tap Install
- Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
- Install the downloaded profile
Step 2: Trust the Developer
- Open Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
- Under Developer App, tap the eSign developer
- Tap Trust and confirm
Step 3: Open eSign
- Launch eSign from the home screen
- The app should open without crashing
Import a Certificate in eSign
To sign IPA files, eSign needs a certificate.
- Download the provided P12 certificate file
- Open eSign
- Tap the menu (three dots) → Import
- Select the P12 file
- Enter the certificate password
- Import it into certificate management
Once imported, eSign becomes ready for app signing.
How to Install IPA Files Using eSign
- Open eSign
- Tap Import
- Select the IPA file from Files
- Go to the Apps tab
- Tap the app → Sign
- Tap Install
- Wait for the app icon to appear on the home screen
The app installs like a normal iOS app.
Important Risks You Must Know
eSign direct install is not permanent.
- Free certificates can be revoked anytime
- Shared certificates revoke faster
- DNS-based installs may affect network behavior
- Banking and payment apps may not work correctly
This method suits temporary or testing use, not long-term stability.
Is eSign Direct Install Safe?
eSign itself works as designed, but the certificate source matters.
Use this method only if:
- You understand certificate revokes
- You avoid sensitive apps
- You accept temporary access
For long-term reliability, a paid developer account offers better stability.
FAQs
What is eSign direct install?
eSign direct install is a method that lets you install IPA files on iPhone or iPad without using a computer. It works by installing the eSign app through Safari, trusting a developer profile, and signing IPA files directly on the device.
Is eSign direct install safe to use?
eSign direct install works safely if you understand the risks. Free enterprise certificates can be revoked anytime. Avoid using this method for banking or sensitive apps because certificate-based installs may stop working without warning.
Does eSign direct install require a jailbreak?
No. eSign direct install does not require jailbreak. It uses enterprise-style certificates and on-device signing instead of system modification.
Can I use eSign direct install without a PC or Mac?
Yes. eSign direct install works completely without a PC or Mac. You only need Safari, internet access, and the IPA file stored on your device.
Why does eSign direct install stop working?
eSign direct install stops working when Apple revokes the certificate used to sign the app. When this happens, the app may crash on launch. You must reinstall eSign using a new signed build.
How long does eSign direct install last before revoke?
Free certificates may last a few days to a few weeks. There is no guaranteed duration. Shared public certificates usually revoke faster than private or paid ones.
Do I need to trust the developer after eSign direct install?
Yes. After installing eSign, you must go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management and trust the developer profile. Without this step, the app will not open.
Can I update apps installed through eSign direct install?
No automatic updates exist. You must re-import the updated IPA file into eSign and reinstall it manually.
What is the difference between eSign direct install and AltStore?
eSign direct install works without a computer but relies on enterprise certificates. AltStore requires a PC for setup but offers more stability through Apple ID signing.
Is eSign direct install permanent?
No. eSign direct install is temporary when you use free certificates. For long-term stability, you need a paid Apple Developer account.
eSign direct install makes IPA installation simple and computer-free. It works well for quick testing, mod apps, and short-term use. However, certificate revokes remain unavoidable with free methods.
If you need zero PC setup, eSign direct install does the job. If you need long-term stability, choose an official signing method.
