# VB Decompiler FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

> Find answers to common questions about VB Decompiler. Learn about supported formats (VB6, .NET), native code recovery limitations, and licensing details.

Canonical HTML: <https://www.vb-decompiler.org/faq.htm>

## Frequently Asked Questions


Find answers to common questions about VB Decompiler's capabilities, technical details, and licensing options.

### General Capabilities

## What exactly can VB Decompiler do?

VB Decompiler analyzes programs written in Visual Basic 5.0/6.0 and .NET (C#, VB.NET). It can restore source code (decompilation), disassemble native code, recover forms and user controls (.frm, .ctl), and allow you to edit string constants.

## Can it decompile EXE, DLL, and OCX files?

Yes, it supports all standard compiled binary types: **EXE** (Executables), **DLL** (Dynamic Link Libraries), and **OCX** (ActiveX Controls) for both VB6 (P-Code, Native Code) and .NET (C# and Visual Basic) platforms. For deep technical knowledge, see our [VB 6.0 reverse engineering guide](https://www.vb-decompiler.org/vb60_reversing.htm)

## Does it support 64-bit applications?

For **.NET applications**, yes — full support for x86 and x64 assemblies.
For **Visual Basic 6.0**, only 32-bit files are supported (since VB6 never produced 64-bit code).

## Can I decompile programs written in Delphi or C++?

No. VB Decompiler is specialized for Visual Basic 5.0 / 6.0 and C# .NET. If you try to open a Delphi or C++ file, it will warn you that the format is unsupported. However, we have internal tools for Delphi/FreePascal and offer this as a separate service. Just email us.

### Code Recovery & Analysis

## How much original code can be recovered?

Success depends on compilation type:

- **P-Code (VB6):** High success rate (up to 85%). Logic is mostly restored.

- **.NET (C#/VB.NET):** Very high success rate (up to 95%). Code is decompiled into readable C#.

- **Native Code (VB6):** Medium success rate, hardest to decompile. You get a partially recovered Visual Basic code (up to 75% recovery).

## How does the AI Helper work?

The AI Helper (available in v12.6+) uses a LLM models in a local network (using Ollama with models like *Qwen3*) to post-process decompiled code. It can rename variables based on context, convert `Goto` jumps into `While/For` loops, and generally clean up the syntax. It requires a GPU with 8GB+ VRAM for best performance.

## What is "Fast Decompilation" mode?

By default, VB Decompiler processes the entire file at once. For large projects, this takes time. "Fast Decompilation" mode processes only the procedures you explicitly open, making the tool work instantly even on huge files. You can toggle this in *Options -> Advanced features*.

## Will I get original variable names?

In most cases, no. Compilers strip variable names to optimize file size. You will see generic names like `var_10`, etc. However, **Forms**, **Controls**, standard **Events**, and **Public functions** usually retain their original names.

### Advanced Features

## What is P-Code and Native Code Tracing?

Tracing lets you emulate the execution of any functions from the compiled VB6 program without running it. You can step through instructions, watch register values (EAX, EBX...), and see stack changes. This is safer than running malware in a debugger.

## Can I edit strings or text in the program?

Yes. Use **Tools -> String References** to find all text strings. You can edit them directly. Note that the new string length cannot exceed the original length (due to binary file structure limitations).

## Can I use VB Decompiler with IDA Pro, OllyDbg or HIEW?

Yes! You can export analyzed data (procedure names, entry points) to **MAP** files, **IDC scripts** (for IDA), or **NAMET** files (for HIEW). This helps you continue analysis in other debuggers and disassemblers.

## Does it handle packed files?

VB Decompiler includes a generic 32bit unpacker only for simple packers (like UPX) and it works only in a 32bit version of Windows. If a file is packed, it will attempt to unpack it automatically. However, it can't help for custom packers or for a protected files.

### Licensing & Purchase

## What is the difference between Single Developer and Enterprise licenses?

- **Single Developer License:** For 1 person. Installation on 1 PC (physical or virtual) allowed. This license assigns to the developer' name and can't be transferred between developers or used by anyone other than the owner.

- **Enterprise License:** For companies. Installation on up to 20 PCs (physical or virtual) allowed. Using by up to 20 developers. If you require activating software on more than 20 PCs (or use by more than 20 employees), you need to procure additional licenses for these devices.

Both allow commercial use.

## Can I use the Educational license for work?

**No.** The Educational license is strictly for non-commercial home learning. It prohibits decompiling commercial / copyrighted software, malware analysis, and commercial usage.

## What happens after my 1-year subscription ends?

Your license is **perpetual** for the version you purchased. You can keep using already installed software forever. But only on the PC where you activated it during the active license subscription. The subscription covers access to *new updates* and *technical support*. The subscription also allows you to move the license to a new PC. You can renew your license at a discount price.

Still have questions? [Contact Support](https://www.vb-decompiler.org/contacts.htm)
