Plugins

IDA’s capabilities can be significantly extended through programmable plugins. These plugins can automate routine tasks, for example, enhance the analysis of hostile code or add a specific functionality to our disassembler.

Plugins can be developed using:

  • C++ using the IDA SDK, or

  • Python via the IDAPython API.

Key capabilities:

  • Integration with hotkeys: plugins can be linked to specific hotkeys or menu items for quick access

  • Access to the IDB: they have full access to the IDA database, allowing them to examine or modify the program or use Input/Output functions.

Where to find plugins

Development resources

  • Examples included with IDA C++ SDK: Our SDK contains +60 sample plugins, including decompiler plugins (you can find them all inside the SDK directory, in the plugins folder), as well as source code to processor modules, loaders, and header files. You can download the latest version of IDA SDK from HexRaysSA/ida-sdk repository on GitHub.

Built-in plugins

  • Plugins shipped with your IDA instance: Explore the plugins directory in your IDA installation folder for plugins shipped out-of-the-box. You can run them through Edit -> Plugins submenu or via hotkeys.

Community plugins

  • Hex-Rays plugins repository: To access a vast collection of community-developed plugins, visit plugins.hex-rays.com.

HCLI & Plugin Manager

  • You can easily search for, install, and upgrade plugins using the Plugin Manager. During installation, HCLI automatically places plugins in the correct locations, installs required Python dependencies, and handles additional setup tasks.

Creating your own plugins

Getting started: Domain API

If you're new to IDA and plugin development, the high-level Domain API is the best place to begin. It provides a broad coverage for common tasks and simplifies scripting, helping you get up and running quickly.

General Domain API Documentation Resources

Getting Started

Examples

Reference

Advanced development: C++ and IDAPython SDK

Do you want to create advanced custom plugins and need more low-level control? Check our tutorials based on the language of your choice:

Create plugins with C++

Create plugins with IDAPython

Automating Plugin Development with HCLI and GitHub Action

Use HCLI - the Hex-Rays Command Line Interface to automate your plugin development workflow. Set up a CI workflow for your plugins using the HCLI IDA GitHub Action to download and install IDA Pro automatically and test your plugin across different environments.

What you can achieve:

  • Cross-platform testing: Test your plugins on Linux, Windows, and macOS

  • Multi-version compatibility: Validate against different IDA Pro versions

  • All dependencies handled: No need for separate Python or uv setup

What's next?

Share your plugin with Hex-Rays community

Make your plugin compatible with Plugin Manager to improve its discoverability and provide users with seamless installation and management.

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