ILSpy review
A capable free .NET decompiler with broad tooling, but no verified debugging.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
ILSpy is an open-source .NET assembly browser and decompiler for developers, analysts, and maintainers who need to inspect .NET assemblies across Windows, macOS, or Linux. Its core workflow covers C# decompilation, whole-project decompilation, assembly metadata browsing, and searches across types, methods, and properties. The project also provides command-line, PowerShell, Visual Studio, and Visual Studio Code frontends, giving it value beyond a desktop-only viewer.
Its feature depth is strongest in .NET inspection. BAML-to-XAML decompilation and ReadyToRun binary support extend coverage for assemblies that need more specialized handling, while command-line navigation and search support scripted workflows. The PowerShell module adds another automation route, and plugin extensibility allows the tool to be extended. Visual Studio and Visual Studio Code integrations also make it easier to fit assembly inspection into existing development environments. There are no AI features, and native-code decompilation is outside its stated scope.
ILSpy is a strong choice for users who want a free, open-source tool for cross-platform .NET decompilation, metadata exploration, project-wide review, and scripting. Its free license and multiple interfaces make it suitable for individual investigation and development workflows without a paid tier structure. Choose an alternative if verified debugging is essential, if native-code analysis is required, or if a consistent prebuilt binary experience is a priority across every platform. For focused .NET assembly work, ILSpy combines broad inspection features with desktop, editor, command-line, and PowerShell access.
ILSpy pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Decompiles C# and supports whole-project workflows
- Runs across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Adds metadata, search, plugins, CLI, and PowerShell tools
- Where it doesn't
- Does not target native code
- Verified debugging is absent
- Prebuilt binaries may vary by platform
ILSpy fact sheet, pricing and score →
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