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Denise Duffy

In the Digital Forensics Concepts course, you will learn about legal considerations applicable to computer forensics and how to identify, collect and preserve digital evidence. This course dives into the scientific principles relating to digital forensics and gives you a close look at on-scene triaging, keyword lists, grep, file hashing, report writing and the profession of digital forensic examination.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Digital Forensics
This introductory course provides a broad overview of computer forensics as an occupation by exploring methodologies used surrounding digital forensics. In addition, the student acquires open-source forensic tools to use throughout this path.
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Introduces legal concerns regarding computer forensics, equipping individuals with practical knowledge
Facilitates understanding of scientific principles within digital forensics, providing a strong foundation
Provides insights into methods for identifying, collecting, and preserving digital evidence, enhancing investigative skills
Emphasizes the importance of on-scene triaging, aiding in the preservation of volatile data and efficient evidence collection
Covers hash values and file hashing techniques, enabling students to exclude or include files from investigations
Guides learners through the creation of disk images, ensuring meticulousness and data integrity in forensic examinations
Utilizes keyword and grep searches, empowering individuals to conduct thorough investigations and locate relevant data
Introduces network basics, providing a foundation for understanding network forensics

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Reviews summary

Foundational concepts in digital forensics

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundational understanding of digital forensics, particularly excelling in covering legal considerations and scientific principles. Many appreciate its utility as a broad overview for those new to the field, finding concepts like evidence collection and preservation well-explained. However, some students wished for more in-depth practical application and hands-on labs, noting that the exploration of certain forensic tools could be more thorough. While the course provides a good introduction to report writing, a few recent comments suggest a need for regular content updates to keep pace with evolving technologies in the field.
Offers a broad overview, but some modules lack deeper dives.
"This course was a good introduction, but for someone with some prior IT background, parts felt a bit basic."
"Some modules, like network basics, felt rushed and could have benefited from a more in-depth exploration of topics."
"It effectively provides a high-level understanding of the digital forensics landscape without getting into overwhelming technicalities."
Instructor explains complex topics with clarity and conciseness.
"The instructor explained concepts clearly and concisely, making complex topics easy to grasp."
"Video lectures were easy to follow, and the slides were well-organized, aiding in understanding."
The module on report writing is highly practical and appreciated.
"The section on report writing and peer review was incredibly practical and directly applicable to the job."
"I found the guidance on what to include and exclude in a final report to be very helpful for my future work."
Provides a strong theoretical base and introduces key concepts.
"This course provided me with a solid foundation in digital forensics concepts, especially the legal considerations."
"As someone new to the field, I found the explanations of core principles like evidence transfer and preservation very clear and helpful."
"It's an excellent broad overview, perfect for getting started without getting bogged down in too much initial detail."
Some content or tools may need updating for current practices.
"A few of the tools discussed seemed a bit outdated, which can be an issue in a rapidly evolving field like forensics."
"It would be highly beneficial if the course was regularly updated to reflect the latest tools and techniques used in professional settings."
"I noticed that some older reviews mentioned outdated info, and while it's generally good, a few parts could use a refresh."
Students desire more hands-on labs and deeper tool exploration.
"While the concepts are clear, I really hoped for more hands-on labs and practical exercises with the specific tools mentioned."
"The course covers keyword and grep searches conceptually, but the actual automated tool usage felt superficial and lacked depth."
"I wish the Digital Forensics Project module had more guidance and complex scenarios to apply what we learned."

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 Concepts with these activities:
Install VirtualBox and Vagrant
Familiarize yourself with the important prerequisites of the course, VirtualBox and Vagrant.
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  • Visit the official website and download the latest version of VirtualBox.
  • Install VirtualBox.
  • Visit the official website and download the latest version of Vagrant.
  • Install Vagrant.
Create a Mind Map of Digital Forensics Concepts
Reinforce your understanding by creating a visual representation of key concepts and their relationships within the field.
Show steps
  • Identify the main concepts of digital forensics.
  • Organize the concepts into a hierarchical structure.
  • Use visual elements (e.g., shapes, colors) to represent the concepts and their connections.
  • Add additional details and examples to support the concepts.
Set Up a Linux Virtual Machine
Learn how to set up a Linux virtual machine, which is necessary for practicing digital forensics techniques.
Browse courses on Virtual Machines
Show steps
  • Create a new virtual machine in VirtualBox.
  • Install a Linux distribution on the virtual machine.
  • Configure the virtual machine's network settings.
  • Install the necessary software on the virtual machine.
Two other activities
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Show all five activities
Participate in a Peer Study Group
Enhance your learning by collaborating with peers. Engage in discussions, share knowledge, and assist each other.
Show steps
  • Form a peer study group.
  • Establish a regular meeting schedule.
  • Assign topics and prepare discussion materials.
  • Engage in active discussions and knowledge sharing.
Write a Digital Forensic Report
Apply your knowledge in documenting and presenting digital evidence by writing a comprehensive digital forensic report.
Show steps
  • Gather the necessary information for the digital forensic report.
  • Organize the information in a logical and coherent manner.
  • Write the report using clear and concise language.
  • Proofread the report carefully before submitting it.

Career center

Learners who complete Digital Forensics Concepts will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Computer Forensics Analyst
Computer Forensics Analysts use their knowledge of data recovery and analysis techniques to investigate cybercrimes. They are responsible for collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence to help solve cases. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Computer Forensics Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Digital Forensics Examiner
Digital Forensics Examiners are responsible for conducting digital forensic investigations and providing expert testimony in court. They use their knowledge of computer forensics techniques to analyze digital evidence and identify the perpetrators of cybercrimes. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the digital forensics field and prepares students for a career as a Digital Forensics Examiner. The course covers the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field, as well as the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Cybersecurity Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as an Information Security Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Network Security Analyst
Network Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Network Security Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Security Architect
Security Architects are responsible for designing and implementing security measures to protect computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Security Architect by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Software Developer
Software Developers use their knowledge of programming languages and software development principles to design, develop, and test software applications. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Software Developer by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems and networks. They use their knowledge of computer hardware and software to ensure that systems are running smoothly and securely. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Systems Administrator by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They use their knowledge of database management systems to ensure that databases are running smoothly and securely. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Database Administrator by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts use their knowledge of data analysis techniques to extract insights from data. They use their skills to identify trends, patterns, and relationships in data to help businesses make better decisions. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Data Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts use their knowledge of business processes and data analysis techniques to help businesses improve their operations. They use their skills to identify areas for improvement and develop solutions to help businesses achieve their goals. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Business Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Forensic Accountant
Forensic Accountants use their knowledge of accounting principles and investigative techniques to investigate financial crimes. They use their skills to identify and prevent fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Forensic Accountant by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Fraud Examiner
Fraud Examiners use their knowledge of accounting principles and investigative techniques to investigate fraud. They use their skills to identify and prevent fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Fraud Examiner by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Private Investigator
Private Investigators use their knowledge of investigative techniques to conduct investigations for private clients. They use their skills to gather information, interview witnesses, and track down evidence. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Private Investigator by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.
Security Consultant
Security Consultants use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to help businesses protect their assets from cyberattacks. They use their skills to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Security Consultant by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Digital Forensics Concepts.
Provides a comprehensive overview of digital forensics for legal professionals, including the legal and ethical considerations, the different types of digital evidence, and the methods for collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the art of digital forensics, including the methods for investigating computer crime.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer forensics, including the methods for collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Windows forensics, including the methods for collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence on Windows systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of open source digital forensics tools, including the methods for using these tools to collect, preserve, and analyze digital evidence.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cybercrime, including the methods for investigating cybercrime.
Provides a comprehensive overview of digital forensics, including the methods for collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence.

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