File Extension Database

Open PE File

Portable Executable (PE) format is a file format designed for Windows operating systems. Often used in .EXE or .DLL files, this format is used for executables, object code, and DLLs, in the NT family of Windows operating systems. The structure provides the information necessary for the Windows loader to manage the wrapped executable code, enabling loading and execution.

Portable Executable Formats

A PE file begins with a small MS-DOS executable stub, allowing the file to print out an error message if an attempt is made to run it in MS-DOS. The PE format also has a COFF (Common Object File Format), which provides basic information about the executable.

Few commonly seen formats of PE files include .EXE (executable), .DLL (Dynamic Link Libraries), .SYS (Windows Drivers), .OCX (OLE Control Extension), and .SCR (Screen Saver).

Opening PE Files

PE files are not designed to be opened manually by the user. Instead, when an application runs, the operating system automatically opens, reads, and executes the PE file. However, certain programs such as Ghidra, IDA Pro, or WinDbg can open PE files for debugging and development purposes.

Using PE Files

As mentioned, PE files are automatically used by the operating system when an application runs. Developers, however, use PE files when debugging an application or developing new software.

Some programs such as PEfile or PyInstaller are used to create PE files. These tools convert Python scripts into standalone executables that work on any computer with a compatible operating system.

PE File Important Information

A key point to remember about PE files is that they should not be opened manually unless you understand the file's purpose and have the necessary knowledge to handle these files. Accidentally running a malicious PE file can lead to serious issues, including data loss or system damage.

It's also important to regularly update your antivirus software, which can check the safety of PE files before they're opened or executed by your operating system. Trustworthy resources like Microsoft's official documentation can provide further information about the structure and handling of PE files.

How Can I Open PE File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open PE file is to find a PE file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a PE file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open PE file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as PE file opener then try to search online for "PE viewer", "application to open PE file" or "open PE file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open PE file

How Can I Open PE File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a PE file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a PE file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with PE file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as PE file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open PE file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open PE file then try to search for "PE viewer", "application to open PE file" or "read PE file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read PE file

How Can I Open PE File on Android

If you downloaded a PE file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded PE file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "PE".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "PE viewer", "PE file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open PE File on iPhone or iPad

To open PE File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the PE file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "PE". This way you can find apps which can open PE files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "PE viewer" or "PE file" online in your favorite search engine.

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