Question 1

How to extract a PyInstaller exe on Windows using pyinstxtractor?

Accepted Answer

Run the script from the command line with 'python pyinstxtractor.py <filename>', ensuring you use the same Python version as the executable to avoid errors. The extracted pyc files can then be decompiled with tools like Uncompyle6.

Question 2

Can pyinstxtractor handle encrypted PyInstaller executables?

Accepted Answer

No, the standard pyinstxtractor script does not support encrypted executables. For that, you need to use pyinstxtractor-ng, a standalone binary version mentioned in the README that includes encryption support.

Question 3

PyInstaller Extractor vs uncompyle6: what's the difference?

Accepted Answer

PyInstaller Extractor unpacks the executable to retrieve pyc files and fixes their headers, while Uncompyle6 is a decompiler that converts those pyc files back to Python source code. They are complementary tools often used together.

Question 4

How do I extract Linux ELF binaries with pyinstxtractor?

Accepted Answer

Pyinstxtractor can natively extract Linux ELF binaries without additional tools—just run the script on the binary file. For details, refer to the project's Wiki on extracting Linux ELF binaries.

Question 5

What happens if I use the wrong Python version with pyinstxtractor?

Accepted Answer

Using a different Python version than the executable's can cause unmarshalling errors during PYZ archive extraction, as noted in the README. It's recommended to match versions for reliable results.

Question 6

Is there a GUI version of pyinstxtractor available?

Accepted Answer

No, pyinstxtractor is a command-line script only. Users looking for a graphical interface might need to build custom wrappers or use other tools, as the project focuses on simplicity and script-based extraction.

PyInstaller Extractor

What is PyInstaller Extractor?

Overview

Use Cases

Best For

Related Projects

Found a gem we're missing?

Not Ideal For

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Frequently Asked Questions