Easy Python Decompiler – A Beginner’s GuidePython is known for its simplicity and readability, making it a favorite among programmers. However, sometimes you may come across compiled Python files (.pyc) that you need to decompile back into readable code. Decompiling can help you understand how a program works or recover lost source code. This guide will introduce you to easy Python decompilers, how to use them, and some best practices for beginners.
What is a Python Decompiler?
A Python decompiler is a tool that takes compiled Python bytecode (.pyc files) and converts it back into human-readable source code. While this process may seem straightforward, it can be complex due to optimizations, obfuscation, and differences in Python versions. Therefore, choosing the right decompiler is crucial for effective results.
Why Would You Need a Python Decompiler?
- Recovering Lost Source Code: If you lose the original Python source code files, a decompiler can help you recover them from compiled files.
- Understanding Third-Party Libraries: If you need to investigate how a library works but don’t have access to the source, a decompiler can provide insights.
- Debugging: Sometimes, reviewing decompiled code can help identify issues in compiled code that you may have no original source for.
Popular Easy Python Decompilers
Here are some of the most user-friendly decompilers available for Python.
| Decompiler | Features | Compatibility | User-Friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decompile3 | Simple command-line interface, supports Python 2 and 3 | Python 2.x, 3.x | High |
| Uncompyle6 | GUI options available, supports several Python versions | Python 2, 3.2 to 3.7 | Medium |
| pycdc | Fast performance, good for examining bytecode | Python 3.x | Medium |
| PyInstaller Extractor | Useful for extracting files from PyInstaller archives | Python 2.x, 3.x | Low |
1. Decompile3
Decompile3 is an accessible decompiler for beginners. It is a command-line tool that supports both Python 2 and 3 files. To use it, follow these steps:
-
Install: You can install it using pip.
pip install decompile3 -
Decompile: Run the following command to decompile a .pyc file:
decompile3 your_file.pyc -
Output: The decompiled code will be shown on the terminal, which you can then copy and save.
2. Uncompyle6
Uncompyle6 has a user-friendly interface and supports a range of Python versions. Here’s how to use it:
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Install: Install via pip.
pip install uncompyle6 -
Decompile: Simply run:
uncompyle6 your_file.pyc -
Save: Redirect the output to a new file:
uncompyle6 your_file.pyc > output_file.py
3. pycdc
pycdc is known for its performance and is suitable for experience users who want more control. Installation and usage are similar to the previous decompilers:
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Install: Get it from the repository.
git clone https://github.com/zaitra/pycdc.git -
Compile: Build the binary following the instructions provided in the README.
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Usage: Run it via command-line with:
./pycdc your_file.pyc
4. PyInstaller Extractor
If you’re trying to extract files from PyInstaller packages, PyInstaller Extractor is what you need.
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Download: Get the extractor from its GitHub page.
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Run: Execute the script:
python pyinst_extractor.py your_file.exe
This will decompress and extract all files, including the .pyc files, which you can subsequently decompile with techniques mentioned above.
Best Practices for Using Python Decompilers
- Check Compatibility: Always check if the decompiler supports the Python version of the compiled file.
- Read Legal Guidelines: Ensure that you have the right to decompile the code, especially when dealing with third-party libraries.
- Backup Original Files: Keep copies of important files before decompiling; you might want to refer to them later.
- Evaluate Decompiled Code
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