decompiling .exe files 1

[JWB46]

Hi guys,

If I convert a QBASIC program into an .EXE file how easy is it for someone to decompile it and recover the original code?
Thanks for your help.

 

[dsi]

It is nearly impossible to obtain the original code. You may be able to get the equations and steps, but I have not seen one that will return the code as it was written. If you have the code, back it up before making your exe. DimensionalSolutions@Core.com
While I welcome e-mail messages, please post all thread activity in these forums for the benefit of all members.

 

[JWB46]

Thanks dsi. That's very helpful.
JWB46

 

[JWB46]

dsi,guys
Just a final question on this - I actually want to stop other people recovering the source code from the .exe file. Is there anything more I could do using facilities available in QBasic ?
Thanks
JWB46

 

[DanTex]

No one is likely to want to decompile your QBasic code. In any case... if they do, what they get back from a decompilation will still be extremely difficult to work with.

However... if you want them to be confused more... just "messy" up your code some. Messy code is much harder to read and figure out even in it's original form. Once compiled... it's even harder to figure out.

One last thought... Convert your code to VB and recompile it. Get on the internet and buy yourself a copy of the ASPACK program ( which packs executibles for Windows so they don't take up so much disk space ). Use ASPACK to repackage your code.

ASPACK wasn't developed to be protection against pirates... however... it does obfuscate the compiled code so that only a very hard core cracker will ever be able to get into it and figure out which end is up.

Dan

 

[JWB46]

Thanks Dan. Good tips. I specialize in 'messy' code anyway. And you're probably right, who in their right mind is going to try it anyway.
JWB46