JD-GUI For Mac

To analyze the source code of their applications, developers are using specialized applications that decompile the data  and are able to display the info in an easy to read manner. JD-GUI is a small but efficient Mac app that can deal with “.class” Java files.

Getting started with JD-GUI is extremely straightforward: once you mount the downloaded DMG, copy the app to your disc and launch it. JD-GUI comes with a simple and very organized user interface: the top toolbar provides access to most of its tools while in the main area you can analyze the source code.

All you have to do next is click on the Open Folder button placed on the JD-GUI toolbar and select the Java file you want to analyze: the left side panel of the main window will display the available classes and resources, while on the right you will be able to see their content.

Moreover, JD-GUI comes with a powerful search tool that can help you find specific code lines, types, constructor elements, string constants, fields or methods. You can limit the results to declarations and references.

For your convenience, the JD-GUI toolbar also includes go back and forward buttons that can help you browse through the Java resources.

Last but not least, via the JD-GUI Preferences window you can choose to escape Unicode characters and omit the prefix “this” when possible during the decompilation process.

Further options include the possibility to display the line numbers or metadata and the fact that you can set up the maximum folder exploration depth.

To conclude, JD-GUI is a minimalist and robust utility that enables you to quickly decompile Java apps by making use of basic tools that do not require you to deal with complex settings.