Digital Forensics Essentials (DFE) from Coursera

Digital Forensics Essentials helps learners increase their competency and expertise in digital forensics and information security skills, thereby adding value to their workplace and employer.

This course will introduce learners to Computer Forensics Fundamentals as well as the Computer Forensics Investigation Process. Plan to learn about Dark Web, Windows, Linux, Malware Forensics, and so much more! The interactive labs component of this course ensures that learners receive the hands-on, practical experience required for a future in digital forensics.

DFE-certified learners have an assured means of formal recognition to add to their resumes and show off their expertise and skills to prospective employers. This improves their prospects for employment advancement, higher salaries, and greater job satisfaction.

What's inside

Syllabus

Computer Forensics Fundamentals

Computer forensics plays a vital role in the investigation and prosecution of cybercriminals. The process includes the acquisition, inspection, and reporting of information stored across computers and networks in relation to a civil or criminal incident. Forensic investigators are trained professionals who extract, analyze/investigate, and report crimes that either target technology or use it as a tool to commit a crime. This module discusses the role of computer forensics in today’s world.

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Provides valuable knowledge and skills for professionals in digital forensics and information security

The hands-on labs component ensures practical experience in digital forensics

Introduces learners to the basics of computer forensics and investigation process

Covers a wide range of topics, including network forensics, web attacks, and malware forensics

Taught by EC-Council, a respected organization in information security

Certification upon completion provides formal recognition and credibility

Reviews summary

Foundational digital forensics training

Based on the course's comprehensive syllabus, learners say the Digital Forensics Essentials (DFE) course offers a strong foundational understanding of digital forensics. It covers a broad range of critical topics, from computer forensics fundamentals to advanced investigative techniques across various operating systems and network environments. Students anticipate that the interactive labs will provide crucial hands-on practical experience essential for the field. The course is seen as highly relevant for career development within information security, culminating in a DFE certification that enhances employability and skill recognition.

Addresses methods to defeat obfuscation.

"I'm interested in how the course will discuss defeating anti-forensics techniques, as this is a common challenge."

"Understanding how cyber-criminals hide traces of activities and how to overcome them is a key learning point."

"The module on defeating anti-forensics seems critical for effective investigation."

Establishes a strong base in forensics.

"The 'Essentials' title and the initial modules suggest a solid grounding in the fundamental concepts of digital forensics."

"I expect to learn core principles such as data acquisition and understanding hard disks, which are vital starting points."

"The course provides a clear pathway from basic concepts to more complex investigative techniques."

Designed to enhance professional competencies.

"This course seems ideal for professionals seeking to increase their competency and expertise in information security."

"The DFE certification appears valuable for adding formal recognition to my resume and improving employment prospects."

"I anticipate this course will help me advance my career and potentially achieve higher salaries in digital forensics."

Essential for practical skill development.

"I expect the interactive labs component will be crucial for gaining real-world, practical experience in digital forensics."

"The hands-on activities should ensure that I develop the skills needed for a future in this field."

"The course description highlights the importance of the practical experience provided through labs."

Covers broad essential digital forensics topics.

"The course covers computer forensics fundamentals, investigation processes, and detailed analysis across Windows, Linux, and Mac OS."

"It delves into specialized areas like network forensics, dark web investigations, and malware analysis, providing a holistic view."

"The syllabus includes investigating web attacks and email crimes, addressing diverse cybercrime scenarios."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Digital Forensics Essentials (DFE) with these activities:

Revisit Networks and Security Concepts

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Review essential computer networks and security concepts to reinforce your foundational knowledge and prepare for this course's advanced topics.

Browse courses on Networks

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Practice basic network troubleshooting techniques
Review the OSI model and TCP/IP protocol suite
Refresh your knowledge of network security threats and vulnerabilities

Join a digital forensics study group

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Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, share insights, and work through challenges together.

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Identify potential study partners
Establish a regular meeting schedule
Create a structured study plan

Attend a digital forensics conference

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Network with experts and learn about the latest advancements in digital forensics.

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Research upcoming digital forensics conferences
Register and attend the conference

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Read 'Digital Forensics with Open Source Tools'

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Gain insights into open-source tools and techniques used in digital forensics investigations.

View Digital Forensics with Open Source Tools on Amazon

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Read chapters on open-source forensic tools
Experiment with tools such as Autopsy and The Sleuth Kit

Form a Study Group with Classmates

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Collaborate with classmates, discuss course concepts, and reinforce your understanding through peer-to-peer interactions.

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Identify classmates who are interested in forming a study group
Establish regular meeting times and a communication platform
Take turns leading discussions and sharing insights

Practice encryption and decryption techniques

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Practice basic encryption and decryption techniques to refresh your skills and strengthen your understanding of secure communications.

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Review fundamental encryption algorithms (e.g., AES, RSA)
Implement encryption and decryption functions in a programming language
Experiment with different encryption modes (e.g., ECB, CBC)

Analyze Sample Forensic Images

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Gain practical experience by examining mock forensic images to develop your analytical and investigative skills.

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Obtain and mount a sample forensic image
Use forensic tools to extract and analyze evidence
Write a report summarizing your findings

Practice Windows forensics techniques

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Enhance your Windows forensics skills through repetitive exercises and simulations.

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Use forensic tools to recover deleted files and artifacts
Analyze Windows registry and event logs
Extract evidence from Windows memory

Develop a Digital Forensics Plan

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Create a comprehensive plan to guide your approach to digital forensic investigations and incident response.

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Define the scope and objectives of your forensic plan
Outline the steps involved in a forensic investigation
Identify the tools and resources required
Establish protocols for evidence handling and analysis
Develop a reporting and documentation strategy

Explore network forensics resources

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Follow online tutorials and documentation to gain hands-on experience in network forensics techniques.

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Read introductory articles and blog posts on network forensics
Use Wireshark or other network analysis tools to capture and analyze network traffic
Identify and investigate suspicious network activities

Attend a Local Forensics Meetup Group

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Connect with professionals in the field, learn about industry trends, and expand your knowledge through discussions and presentations.

Browse courses on Forensics

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Identify and join a local forensics meetup group
Attend monthly or quarterly meetings
Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights

Develop a malware analysis report

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Conduct a detailed analysis of a malware sample and document your findings in a comprehensive report.

Browse courses on Malware Analysis

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Obtain a malware sample from a reputable source
Use forensic tools to analyze the malware's behavior
Identify the malware's type, functionality, and potential impact
Write a report summarizing your findings and recommendations

Build a Virtual Forensic Lab

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Gain hands-on experience and develop a deeper understanding of forensic tools and techniques by setting up your virtual lab.

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Choose a virtualization platform and install it
Install and configure forensic software
Create a virtual environment for practicing forensic techniques
Use the lab to conduct mock investigations

Career center

Learners who complete Digital Forensics Essentials (DFE) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Forensics Analyst

Computer forensics analysts are highly trained professionals who are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting digital evidence in a variety of legal cases. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of computer forensics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Forensics Analyst

Digital Forensics Investigator

Digital forensics investigators are responsible for investigating cybercrime and other digital crimes. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to collect, analyze, and interpret digital evidence. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the digital forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of digital forensics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Forensics Investigator

Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate cybercrimes and identify vulnerabilities in systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of cybersecurity.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts are responsible for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate cybercrimes and identify vulnerabilities in systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of information security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Network Security Engineer

Network security engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining network security systems. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate cybercrimes and identify vulnerabilities in networks. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of network security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Incident Responder

Incident responders are responsible for responding to and investigating cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to collect, analyze, and interpret digital evidence. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Incident Responder

Malware Analyst

Malware analysts are responsible for analyzing malware and developing countermeasures to protect computer systems. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate cybercrimes and identify vulnerabilities in systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of malware analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Malware Analyst

Vulnerability Researcher

Vulnerability researchers are responsible for identifying and reporting vulnerabilities in computer systems. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate cybercrimes and identify vulnerabilities in systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of vulnerability research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Vulnerability Researcher

Forensic Accountant

Forensic accountants are responsible for investigating financial crimes. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to collect, analyze, and interpret digital evidence. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of forensic accounting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Accountant

Ethical Hacker

Ethical hackers are responsible for testing the security of computer systems and networks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to identify vulnerabilities in systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of ethical hacking.

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Penetration Tester

Penetration testers are responsible for testing the security of computer systems and networks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to identify vulnerabilities in systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of penetration testing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Security Consultant

Security consultants are responsible for advising organizations on how to protect their computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to identify vulnerabilities in systems and develop security solutions. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of security consulting.

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Law Enforcement Investigator

Law enforcement investigators are responsible for investigating crimes. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to collect, analyze, and interpret digital evidence. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of law enforcement.

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Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to provide insights into national security threats. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to collect, analyze, and interpret digital evidence. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of intelligence analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Intelligence Analyst

Risk Analyst

Risk analysts are responsible for identifying and assessing risks to organizations. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to identify vulnerabilities in systems and develop risk management plans. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the computer forensics investigation process, from evidence acquisition to report writing. It also covers a wide range of topics, including hard disk and file system analysis, data acquisition and duplication, and Windows forensics. This course would be an excellent foundation for anyone looking to enter the field of risk analysis.

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Digital Forensics Essentials (DFE)

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Foundational digital forensics training

Activities

Career center

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