In this guide, you’ll learn about the basic systems that control how computers handle and store data. We’ll look at binary, decimal, and hexadecimal number systems, which are key for understanding low level programming, memory editing, and reverse engineering. We’ll also explore how these systems translate into human readable formats and why they matter in computing.
What Are Base Systems?
Computers operate using binary, a base 2 numeral system made up of 0s and 1s. This is the language of digital electronics everything your computer does is based on binary.
- Decimal: This is the base 10 system we use in everyday life. It uses digits from 0 to 9.
- Hexadecimal: A base 16 system used extensively in programming and memory addressing. It includes digits 0-9 and letters A-F.
Why These Systems Are Important
- Binary: The foundation of all computer operations. It’s how computers process and store data at the lowest level.
- Decimal: Helps bridge the gap between human readable numbers and computer systems. It’s the system we’re most familiar with.
- Hexadecimal: Used to represent memory addresses and simplify binary data. It’s easier to read and work with than long strings of binary.
Example: Converting Between Systems
Here’s a simple example to show how these number systems connect and how they translate into each other:
| Decimal | Binary | Hexadecimal |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0000 | 0 |
| 5 | 0101 | 5 |
| 10 | 1010 | A |
| 15 | 1111 | F |
- Binary to Decimal: Each binary digit represents a power of 2. For example,
1010in binary is10in decimal. - Decimal to Hexadecimal: Divide the number by 16 and use remainders. For example,
15in decimal isFin hexadecimal. - Hexadecimal to Binary: Each hex digit represents 4 binary digits. For example,
Ain hex is1010in binary.
Practical Use in Memory Editing
When working with tools like Squalr or Cheat Engine, you’ll often see memory addresses displayed in hexadecimal. For example, a memory address like 0x7FFA3B is much easier to read and work with than its binary equivalent.
- Why Hexadecimal?: It’s compact and easier to translate between binary and human readable formats. For example, the binary value
111111111111010000111011becomes0x7FFA3Bin hex.
Tools to Practice
- Squalr: A modern memory editor that helps you visualize and manipulate memory.
- Cheat Engine: Great for experimenting with memory addresses and understanding how values are stored.
Why Should You Learn This?
Understanding binary, decimal, and hexadecimal is the first step toward mastering low level programming, reverse engineering, and game hacking. These systems are the building blocks of how computers process and store data. By learning how to translate between these systems, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how your computer works and be better equipped to tackle advanced topics.