Why a coder can’t simply “decompile” an executable to get perfect source code for reverse engineering a piece of software?
Because the compiler preforms many irreversible changes to the code. At the very least, comments and variable names are removed, names of private functions are obfuscated, and the code is optimized to make it run faster and better. However, certain programming languages, such as Java and C#, are …
The Short Answer
Because the compiler preforms many irreversible changes to the code. At the very least, comments and variable names are removed, names of private functions are obfuscated, and the code is optimized to make it run faster and better. However, certain programming languages, such as Java and C#, are compiled into a intermediate language which is similar to the original source language, and these indeed can be decompiled fairly successfully (just lookup Java Decompiler or .NET Decompiler).
Analysis
Key Concepts: Code, names, java
This explanation focuses on code, names, java and spans 76 words across 3 sentences. The depth is typical for Technology questions (category average: 75 words), striking a balance between accessibility and completeness.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Because the compiler preforms many irreversible changes to the code.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.
How This Compares in Technology
Ranked #211 of 500 Technology questions by answer depth (top 43%). This falls in the detailed tier — above average depth. The explanation goes beyond surface-level but keeps things accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why why a coder can't simply "decompile" an executable to get perfect source code for reverse engineering a piece of software?
Because the compiler preforms many irreversible changes to the code. At the very least, comments and variable names are removed, names of private functions are obfuscated, and the code is optimized to make it run faster and better. However, certain…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Technology questions?
This is an above-average answer at 76 words, ranked #211 of 500 Technology questions by depth. The key concepts covered are code, names, java.
What approach does this answer take to explain why a coder can't simply "decompile" an executable to get pe?
The explanation uses root cause analysis and contrasting perspectives across 76 words. It is categorized under Technology and addresses the question through 2 analytical lenses.