The latest version of the software development tool for inspection and editing of Windows executable files PE Explorer is 1.99. The tool is developed by Heaventools Software (www.heaventools.com) and has a digital signature viewer that offers users the possibility to verify the signed executables and validating the software publisher's identity. It also brings the function to mark pre-Vista applications with a requested execution level, offering the way to deploy the same build of the application on both Windows XP and Windows Vista.

    The new solution offers a complete look at the inner workings of downloaded executable files, and helps software companies examine if a binary is harmful by verifying it manually and without relying on the automated scanning algorithms. The program includes functions for disassembly and inspection of unknown binaries, modification of the properties of executable files, plus customization and translation functions. With PE Explorer, software engineers and security specialists can apply a professional approach to research and reverse engineering of binary files.
A significant percentage of malware escapes the automated screening process and manages to wreak havoc on networks though anti-virus software is continually getting better.

    The program utilizes a wizard-based approach to creating an application manifest which offers a target application the possibility to take advantage of the new common control styles and work elevated as an administrator on Windows Vista. PE Explorer consists of an integrated collection of utilities that offer a framework for working with EXE, DLL, ActiveX controls, and several other executable file formats that run on MS Windows 32-bit platforms. PE Explorer Disassembler helps developers find out what software that they have no source code for does in a particular feature or function to the degree that they can either modify this code, or reproduce it in another independent work. The built-in resource editor offers companies the possibility to adjust software to their own needs and solve Vista install issues.

    The program is disponible directly from the heaventools.com website. PE Explorer is priced at $129 (US) for a personal license, the single-user business license is $199 (US) and includes free technical support, free software updates, and maintenance releases for 18 months from the date of purchase. Volume discounts are available.