Bytecode Analysis

Definition ∞ Bytecode analysis is the systematic examination of compiled code, typically in a low-level, platform-independent format, to understand its functionality and identify potential vulnerabilities. In the context of smart contracts, this involves scrutinizing the bytecode deployed on a blockchain to ascertain its operational logic and security properties. This process does not require access to the original source code, making it crucial for auditing deployed contracts. It helps uncover hidden issues.
Context ∞ Bytecode analysis is a vital security practice within the blockchain space, particularly for auditing smart contracts after their deployment. Security firms routinely perform this analysis to uncover logic errors, reentrancy issues, or other exploits that could lead to financial losses. The continuous evolution of blockchain platforms and smart contract languages necessitates advanced bytecode analysis tools to maintain system integrity and protect user funds. News often reports on exploits identified or prevented through such analysis.