When compiling an application in the .NET framework, the source code is being compiled into Common Intermediate Language. Then, at runtime, the CIL code is passed through a Just In Time Compiler which translates it into the machine code. The problem is that the CIL can be very easily decompiled back (using apps like dnSpy, .NET Reflector or IlSpy) to the original source code of the application. To protect intellectual property and the source code, the applications should be somehow obfuscated. There are multiple tools which can help you with that. One of them is SmartAssembly SmartAssembly is a commercial .NET obfuscator created by Redgate. As the website says: ... [It] helps protect your application against reverse-engineering or modification, by making it difficult for a third-party to access your source code. Malware authors take advantage of the .NET framework and its compatibility with Windows environment, however they also need to protect their code to be as successful as possib