ImHex is a graphical hex editor designed for examining, decoding and modifying binary data. It provides tools for understanding undocumented file formats, investigating executable files and inspecting data structures that cannot be interpreted meaningfully by conventional text editors.
A central component is its pattern language, which allows users to describe binary structures using types, arrays, structures, pointers and other constructs. Instead of interpreting a file solely as a sequence of hexadecimal values, an analyst can define its layout and examine the resulting fields directly. This is particularly valuable when reverse engineering proprietary formats or working with complex binary structures. ImHex also provides facilities for transforming data, examining statistical properties and applying modifications without requiring a separate collection of utilities. Its graphical interface brings binary inspection, format descriptions and analytical tools together in one workspace.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Hexadecimal editor with byte patching, patch management and unlimited undo and redo.
- Supports hexadecimal, string and pattern searches, bookmarks and configurable data highlighting.
- Provides a pattern language supporting structures, unions, arrays, pointers, enums, bitfields and endianness.
- Automatically applies format patterns using file signatures and MIME information.
- Includes data inspectors for integers, floating-point values, strings, timestamps, GUIDs and other representations.
- Offers a node-based data processor for decoding, transforming and decrypting data.
- Includes disassembly tools and YARA rule support for binary investigation.
- Provides entropy analysis, byte distribution visualisations and file-type identification.
- Supports Base64 data, IPS and IPS32 patches, and exporting binary data in several representations.
- Offers configurable themes, custom encodings and extensibility through plugins.
- Cross-platform support – runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Website: github.com/WerWolv/ImHex
Support:
Developer: WerWolv
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
ImHex is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
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Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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