Restorator 2007

Overview

Restorator 2007 is a Windows resource editor used to view and modify resources inside compiled binaries such as EXE, DLL, and OCX files.

• Designed for post-compilation resource editing
• Enables changes without access to source code
• Focuses on direct manipulation rather than development workflows

Key Features

• Resource editing (icons, dialogs, strings, bitmaps)

  Allows UI customization, localization, and minor visual fixes

• Direct EXE and DLL file access

  Eliminates the need for recompilation in many cases

• Binary resource viewer

  Useful for inspecting internal file structure

• Drag-and-drop interface

  Speeds up resource replacement and organization

Who Should Use This Software?

• Users performing UI localization or customization
• Technicians working with legacy Windows applications
• Professionals needing quick access to embedded resources

Who Should Avoid It?

Not suitable for modern development environments.

• Developers working with:
  • .NET-based applications
  • UWP or modern Windows frameworks
• Users needing automation or scripting support

In these cases, more modern tools are a better fit.

Real-World Usage Notes

• Startup time: very fast
• System impact:
  • Low memory usage
  • No background services

• Workflow experience:

  Feels dated but responsive once learned

• Large binaries:
  • Resource trees can become crowded
  • Manual care is required to avoid mistakes

Compatibility & Requirements

• Supported operating systems:
  • Windows XP
  • Windows Vista
  • Windows 7 (newer versions may require compatibility mode)
• Installation:
  • Installer-based
  • No official portable version
• Integration:
  • No IDE integration
  • Operates as a standalone tool

Limitations

• Limited Unicode and modern encoding support
• No support for .NET resource structures
• Not designed around current Windows security models

• Weak undo system:

  Incorrect edits can permanently damage binaries

Safety & Privacy

Does not require an internet connection.

• Does not run in the background
• Does not collect data
• Operates only on user-selected files
• Administrator privileges:
  • Required when editing protected system files

Summary

Restorator 2007 remains a practical tool for editing resources in legacy Windows applications. It is lightweight and fast, but unsuitable for modern software development or security-sensitive environments. Best used when direct, manual resource editing is required without source code access.