How can I open Java .class files in a human-readable way?

Java .class files are compiled Java bytecode, which is not easily readable by humans. To view the contents of a .class file in a human-readable way, you can use a Java decompiler.

A Java decompiler is a tool that converts compiled Java bytecode back into the source code that it was compiled from. This allows you to view the source code of a .class file, even if you do not have the original source code available.

There are several Java decompilers available, both free and commercial. Some popular decompilers include:

  • JD-GUI: A free, open-source decompiler that runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Cavaj Java Decompiler: A free decompiler that runs on Windows.
  • JAD: An old but still widely used decompiler that runs on Windows and other platforms.
  • JBVD: A free, web-based decompiler that allows you to decompile .class files online.

To use a Java decompiler, you will need to install it on your system, and then open the .class file using the decompiler. The decompiler will show you the decompiled source code of the .class file, which you can then view or save to a file.

Keep in mind that decompiling .class files is not always accurate, and the decompiled source code may not exactly match the original source code. Some features, such as comments and original variable names, may be lost during the compilation process.