Disassembler

Updated: 11/12/2023 by Computer Hope
blocks being disassembled

A disassembler is a program that converts machine code or binary code to a human-readable assembly language or source code that can be modified. More plainly, a disassembler is a tool used to convert what would otherwise be incomprehensible code to something people can understand and use.

How are disassemblers utilized?

The process of converting machine code is known as disassembly. Machine code corresponds to the instructions executed by a computer's CPU (central processing unit), and assembly language represents the low-level code that uses mnemonics and symbols that programmers can understand.

Disassemblers are commonly used for debugging, reverse engineering, and to check the functionality of compiled software. They help programmers and security analysts understand a program without the need to access the original code. For example, disassemblers are useful for tasks like finding vulnerabilities and patching them.

Note

The act of unauthorized reverse engineering of software may be illegal. Make sure to use disassemblers and related tools in compliance with applicable laws and agreements.

Assembler, Decompiler, Disassembly, Programming terms