Computer forensics is the process of analyzing and reporting on a computer system. The computer forensics specialists are trained to use advanced tools and techniques to extract data from computers. The results are then analyzed and reported on, usually in a report format.
Experts at analyzing and reporting on computers must be able to quickly analyze a computer system, identify its components, and understand the operating system used. They must also be able to understand how those components work together with other systems in order to solve problems or gather evidence.
Computer forensics experts work for many different departments within law enforcement agencies as well as private companies. They often work closely with cybercrime investigators because they need to know what information can be obtained from different types of devices such as mobile phones and laptops.
Forensic experts are tasked with analyzing computer systems in order to get information about what happened and how it happened. They also take part in court proceedings when crimes are committed.
Forensic experts have a variety of skills that they use to solve these cases. Some of these include:
Automated tools – These are programs that are used to run through data, looking for any anomalies. This can include looking at network traffic, network shares and even the hard drive itself.
Static analysis – This is where you run through a file or folder and compares it with another version of the same file or folder. It’s not as fast as using an automated tool but it does allow you to see if there are any differences between two versions of the same file or folder.
Dynamic analysis – This is when you’re looking at live data as it travels through your system, looking for anything that might be suspicious.
Physical evidence – Things like fingerprints and DNA samples can be collected from people involved in an investigation so they can be used later on if needed in court proceedings or other cases that need evidence from past events recorded by forensic experts
Computer forensics is the science of investigating computer crimes, much like police investigators do with physical evidence. Computer forensics experts use forensic tools to collect and preserve evidence from computers, networks and other digital devices. The key difference between computer forensics and other types of forensics is that the information being collected must be digital rather than physical.
Computer forensics experts analyze this data using specialized software, techniques and equipment. They may use everything from high-tech computer software to more basic tools like paper and pen. They may work in government offices or law enforcement agencies or they may be independent consultants.
They may also consult other experts to help them gather evidence or give them advice on how to proceed with their investigation. Some examples include:
Software developers who create programs for use by forensic investigators;
Intellectual property attorneys who advise on legal issues related to data collection;
Law enforcement personnel who work with prosecutors on criminal cases; AND
Internet service providers who have accessed to the vast amount of data about customer’s online activity