Protecting Java source code beyond obfuscation
Java class files are easily reverse-engineered. The properties that allow Java applications to run anywhere make reverse engineering straightforward.
There are many Java decompilers on the market that can generate surprisingly readable source code. Anyone with general programming skills can download a Java decompiler, analyze your application through it, and read the source code almost like reading open-source code.
The issues of code obfuscation
Due to the high semantic nature of JVM bytecode, it makes the bytecode extremely easy to analyze and read, even if obfuscated. With a little patience, the program's execution logic can still be analyzed. Even with excellent obfuscators that make static analysis very difficult, its execution logic can still be easily analyzed via dynamic debugging. so obfuscation is not a reliable protection solution.
You can view this article: https://protector4j.com/articles/the-issues-of-code-obfuscation/ to learn more about the issues of code obfuscation.
Strengthen protection through Protector4J
Protector4J protects your Java source code by converting jar files into private encrypted JARX files. We employ various methods at both the JVM and binary levels to ensure the security of your application, providing strong application protection. You can click on this article: https://protector4j.com/articles/how-protector4j-works to learn how Protector4J works.
Encrypting your code can protect your intellectual property and greatly enhance the security of your application. It makes IP theft, code tampering, and discovery of security vulnerabilities involve expensive reverse engineering efforts, while in reality anyone can download and run a free Java decompiler.
Protector4J also helps you create executable programs for Windows, Linux, and macOS for your Java App.