Decompiling an executable file (exe) involves the process of reverse engineering, wherein the compiled code is converted back into its original source code. It is helpful in learning and knowing how a program works without having access to the code. In this Article we will learn how to decompile an .exe File using DotPeek Decompiler.

You can learn about executable Files Here Executable Files: Types, Creation, and Risks (nexuspie.com)

DotPeek Decompiler

dotPeek is a free-of-charge standalone tool based on ReSharper‘s bundled decompiler. It can reliably decompile any .NET assembly into equivalent C# or IL code.

The decompiler supports multiple formats including libraries (.dll), executables (.exe), and Windows metadata files (.winmd).

Downloading JetBrains Dotpeek Decompiler:

To get started, you’ll need to download JetBrains Decompiler from the official JetBrains website. Visit the JetBrains website at www.jetbrains.com and you will see the download button on top right corner of your screen. You can download Web Installer or Offline depending on your internet stability. After Downloading, Follow Easy to use installation wizerd, Click next next and install, and Decompiler will get Installed in your System

Decompiling with DotPeek Decompiler:

After you have successfully downloaded and installed JetBrains Decompiler on your system, It is now time to decompile exe File using DotPeek. Follow these steps to decompile an exe:

Launch DotPeek Decompiler:

Open the JetBrains Decompiler application on your computer. You should see a user-friendly interface that allows you to interact with the tool’s various features.

Load the Exe:

In the Decompiler interface, If you don’t find assembly explorer on front, you can find it under Windows Menu option. 

locate the option to load an executable file (exe). You will find this option under the “File” -> “Open” menu. Click on it to browse and select the exe file you want to decompile. You can also drag and drop your exe file into assembly explorer.

See the Decompiled exe (Source Code):

The Moment you load your exe into solution explorer, it will take few seconds and will decompile it automatically, and will show the version (framework) of the exe

you can expand it and see the source code. 

Download Source Code (Decompiled exe):

Right Click on your exe file, and click Export Project, A Popup will open asking for location and format of the source code (.sln). Choose .sln so that you can open your project in visual studio which is best IDE for .net

Once you have selected the output location, Click on Export Button, It will take some time and will download the project and place it in your selected location. 

Explore the Decompiled Code:

Congratulations! decompilation process is complete, you can navigate through the decompiled source code using JetBrains Decompiler’s built-in code viewer or can open your project in visual studio, make changes and re-run it.. 

Conclusion

DotPeek Decompiler is a powerful tool for decompiling exe files and gaining insights into their source code. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully decompile an exe using JetBrains DotPeek Decompiler. Remember that decompiling software without proper authorization may infringe on intellectual property rights, so always ensure that you have the necessary permissions before decompiling any executable file.