PELock vs Themida

PELock protects compiled 32-bit Windows applications against cracking, tampering, and reverse engineering, while providing software licensing tools. It protects Portable Executable formats including EXE, SCR, DLL, OCX, CPL, BPL, DPL, ACM, and AX. Anti-debugging methods detect cracking tools and block their actions. The license key manager handles users and keys, generates and verifies RSA-2048 keys, and can block illegally shared keys. Trials can be limited by days, executions, an expiration date, or minutes of use. A virtual DLL binder combines an application and libraries into one EXE, loading those libraries in memory without writing them to disk. SDK examples cover C/C++, Delphi, Lazarus, FreePascal, PureBasic, PowerBASIC, D, and Assembler. Plugins can add compression, detection, licensing checks, and loader functions. The maker lists Windows support from Windows 95 through Windows 10 and Server 2003 through 2012, with 32- and 64-bit support. Pricing starts at 59 one-time; listed licenses cost 159.00 USD or $299, paid once.

Themida is Windows software that protects applications against advanced reverse engineering and cracking. Its SecureEngine technology combines anti-debugger, anti-disassembly, anti-tracing, anti-breakpoint, and anti-memory-patching techniques. Code protection options include virtualization, encryption, mutation, metamorphic scrambling, and random garbage-code insertion. It protects native 32-bit and 64-bit EXE files and dynamic libraries in DLL, OCX, and BPL formats. XBundler can embed DLLs and data files, while custom DLL plugins can be embedded in the protected binary. Integration is available through SDK communication with the protection layer and command-line support. Developers can customize dialog text and icons shown by protected applications. A demo is available for evaluation, but demo versions cannot be registered and have reduced protections, including light virtualization, no string encryption, and a demo splash screen. Licenses are perpetual. Developer License costs €249 as a one-time purchase; Company License costs €499 as a one-time purchase. Renewal plans cost 79.00 EUR or €159 a year for existing customers.