Code signing is a crucial process for iOS app development, ensuring that apps are securely signed by trusted developers and protecting against malware and viruses. The process involves generating a digital certificate, private key, and provisioning profile, which are then used to sign the app. There are various tools and methods available to automate this process, including Xcode's automatic code signing option, Bitrise, and codesigndoc. Understanding the basics of code signing is essential for iOS developers, as it can help streamline their workflow and improve the security of their apps.