Which method involves dismantling an executable into binary format to study its functionalities?

The method that involves dismantling an executable into binary format to study its functionalities is malware disassembly. In this process, analysts take binary files (executable programs) and break them down into a more understandable assembly language. This allows them to examine the inner workings of the software, identify malicious behavior, and understand how the program interacts with the system. By analyzing the assembly code, security professionals can uncover hidden features, potential vulnerabilities, and any malware signatures present in the executable.

The other methods mentioned serve different purposes. Dynamic analysis involves executing the code in a controlled environment and monitoring its behavior in real time, which provides insights into how the program operates during execution, rather than its structure. Static code review entails reviewing the code without executing it, focusing on identifying code quality, security flaws, or adherence to coding standards, but typically applies to high-level programming languages rather than binary formats. Source code analysis examines the actual source code written by developers, offering insight into logical flow and program design before it is converted into binary, but does not involve disassembly of an executable.

Thus, the specific focus of dismantling a binary to understand its functionality belongs uniquely to the process of malware disassembly.