Quick Answer
The correct answer is to detect packers or compilers used in the PE file. PEiD performs static malware analysis by scanning the file’s entry point and section headers for known signatures, allowing it to identify whether a Portable Executable has been packed, crypted, or compiled with a specific tool. This is essential because packed malware hides its true code from static analysis, and knowing the packer helps the analyst choose the right unpacking method before proceeding to dynamic analysis. On the CHFI exam, this concept tests your understanding of the static analysis phase and the importance of identifying obfuscation techniques; a common trap is confusing PEiD with a debugger or disassembler, but remember that PEiD only identifies signatures, it does not execute code. A useful memory tip: PEiD stands for “PE iDentifier,” so think of it as a signature scanner that answers “what packed this file?” before you try to unpack it.
This CHFI practice question tests your understanding of mobile and malware forensics. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
In static malware analysis, what is the purpose of using a tool like PEiD?
To monitor registry changes during execution
Why wrong: Registry monitoring is done by Regshot or Process Monitor.
To detect packers or compilers used in the PE file
PEiD identifies packers like UPX, ASPack.
To disassemble the binary into assembly code
Why wrong: Disassembly is done by IDA Pro or Ghidra.
To analyze network traffic generated by the malware
Why wrong: Network analysis requires Wireshark or similar.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
To detect packers or compilers used in the PE file
PEiD is a static analysis tool that identifies packers, cryptors, and compilers embedded in Portable Executable (PE) files by scanning for known signatures in the file's entry point and section headers. This helps an analyst understand whether the malware is packed (obfuscated) and what tool was used to create or compress it, which is critical before attempting dynamic analysis or unpacking.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
To monitor registry changes during execution
Why it's wrong here
Registry monitoring is done by Regshot or Process Monitor.
To detect packers or compilers used in the PE file
Why this is correct
PEiD identifies packers like UPX, ASPack.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
To disassemble the binary into assembly code
Why it's wrong here
Disassembly is done by IDA Pro or Ghidra.
To analyze network traffic generated by the malware
Why it's wrong here
Network analysis requires Wireshark or similar.
Common exam traps
EC-Council often tests the distinction between static and dynamic analysis tools, and the trap here is that candidates confuse PEiD with a disassembler or a runtime monitor, because they see 'analysis' and assume it covers all phases of malware examination.
Trap categories for this question
Similar concept trap
Network analysis requires Wireshark or similar.
Detailed technical explanation
PEiD works by comparing the first few bytes at the OEP (Original Entry Point) against a database of known signatures (e.g., UPX, ASPack, Visual C++). It can also detect entropy anomalies; a high entropy value often indicates packing. In real-world scenarios, malware authors frequently use custom packers to evade signature-based detection, and PEiD's ability to identify the packer version helps the analyst select the correct unpacking tool or script.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
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FAQ
Mobile and Malware Forensics — This question tests Mobile and Malware Forensics — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: To detect packers or compilers used in the PE file — PEiD is a static analysis tool that identifies packers, cryptors, and compilers embedded in Portable Executable (PE) files by scanning for known signatures in the file's entry point and section headers. This helps an analyst understand whether the malware is packed (obfuscated) and what tool was used to create or compress it, which is critical before attempting dynamic analysis or unpacking.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
This CHFI practice question is part of Courseiva's free EC-Council certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CHFI exam.
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