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Software tool that lets you edit binary files of varying sizes

Software tool that lets you edit binary files of varying sizes

Vote: (31 votes)

Program license: Trial version

Developer: Hhdsoftware

Version: 6.54.01.6478

Works under: Windows

Also available for Android

Vote:

Program license

(31 votes)

Trial version

Developer

Version

Hhdsoftware

6.54.01.6478

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Android

Pros

  • No real size limitation
  • Two-pane display
  • Onboard explorer module

Cons

  • Can't view underlying source code
  • May not be best for those used to character-based tools

HexEditor is a Windows utility that allows you to edit binary files and view data dumps as hexadecimal text.

Anyone who has been using computers long enough probably has fond memories of text-based command line-driven hex editors. Those who have been involved in embedded systems design to mobile app programming might have some not-so-fond memories of using these tools! Regardless of your personal feelings, however, you'll more than likely agree that HexEditor is an efficient and modern tool that makes manipulating binary files a breeze.

Nevertheless, it includes everything you'd expect from these older tools. It uses a dual-pane design to show hexadecimal output on one side while positioning ASCII text on the other. If there's any readable text embedded into an executable file, then you'll see it right away.

Hackers who edit ROM files can use the app to change individual values when developing their own 8-bit games. Professional developers can load CLI utilities and compiled libraries to search for bad opcode. No matter what use you have planned for it, you'll find that HexEditor responds to all of the standard keyboard shortcut you'd expect from a standard text editor.

Rather than rely on the common vi key layout, HexEditor deploys the same one that most Windows users would expect. You can move the cursor with nothing more than the arrow keys, which should help make it attractive for beginners who wouldn't otherwise use a HexEditor.

While the app does impose certain size limitations, you're unlikely to meet them. This is in sharp contrast to most tools, which won't allow users to open binary files over a given size.

Users have access to several different data types. You can view HexEditor's output in ASCII, float, decimal, binary and double formats in addition to traditional hexadecimal. You could theoretically create entire microcode programs with it as a result. A more realistic use of this feature might be to quickly prepare binary patches for other files.

Beta testers and those attempting to do data recovery from raw media should find that HexEditor comes with all the tools they need to find errors and locate lost files. An unlimited undo and redo function takes the edge off of making mistakes.

While it can theoretically work with any file format, HexEditor comes ready to load up several standard extensions. It natively supports DLL, EXE, MP3, DAT, JPG, and AVI. That list includes most of the files that developers working on the Windows platform will want to edit anyway

Newer coders will appreciate the built-in file explorer, which allows users to look through individual modules stored inside libraries. The UI for this feature works much like Windows Explorer, so it's very easy to use even if you don't have any experience working with hex editors in the past.

Pros

  • No real size limitation
  • Two-pane display
  • Onboard explorer module

Cons

  • Can't view underlying source code
  • May not be best for those used to character-based tools