Computer Forensics Fundamentals from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understanding what computer forensics is
Be able to make a forensics image from a drive
Be able to mount a drive for analysis

Understand basic artifacts of the operating system
Understand basics of first responder to scene and what should be done to secure the digital evidence

Understanding what computer forensics is
Be able to make a forensics image from a drive
Be able to mount a drive for analysis
Understand basic artifacts of the operating system
Understand basics of first responder to scene and what should be done to secure the digital evidence

Syllabus

Understanding what computer forensics is

Introduction and layout of the course. What will be taught and how it will be taught

The course introduction giving a working definition of what computer forensics is, the steps of basic computer forensics and ways computers can be used to commit a crime.

Quiz on what was covered in introduction

This lecture covers what hash files are and how they are used in different ways in computer forensics.

This is a lab exercise to the understanding hash files better. You can create your own txt files or download the ones in the lecture extras section. If the website in the PDF file is not available use the following website to complete the exercise: www.whatsmyip.org/hash-generator/

This lecture covers the hexadecimal numbering system and how it is used in computer forensics.

This is a lab exercise to understand hex editor software and file headers better. Download the 3 supplemental files and follow the instructions in the lab.

Quiz about understanding of hash values and hexadecimal numbers

This lecture covers the physical and logic copies of hardware, slack space and RAM

This lecture covers hardware devices, file systems and operating systems.

Quiz on hardware storage devices, RAM and locations/types of evidence

An overview of the forensics imaging software used to make, mount and explorer forensic images.

Demonstration on how to add evidence to a case

Demonstration of how to mount and image as a drive letter

Over view demonstration of exploring an image

This lesson covers procedures for first responders to a scene collecting evidence.

Quiz on response to a crime scene

Wrap up and recommendations on where to go from here and in the future.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Beginner-friendly introduction to the foundational steps computer forensics and the world of digital forensics examination

Taught by experienced instructor John Boyle who developed this course to give learners a taste of the real world

Develops foundational knowledge of basic computer forensics concepts and skills, such as imaging and exploring drives

Hands-on labs demonstrate best practices and provide an interactive learning experience

Supplemental first responder lesson provides valuable guidance for initial steps at a scene

Prerequisites are not explicitly stated, but the course assumes basic computer literacy

Reviews summary

Solid introduction to computer forensics fundamentals

According to learners, "Computer Forensics Fundamentals" is a largely positive course, particularly well-suited for absolute beginners in the field. Students frequently praise the clear explanations of foundational concepts like hashing, hexadecimal, and file systems. Many highlight the practical aspects, including hands-on demonstrations for creating and mounting forensic images, and valuable insights into first responder procedures. While some find the content too basic for those with prior IT experience or note that certain tools and presentations may feel dated, the course consistently delivers a strong foundational understanding that prepares learners for more advanced study.

Offers valuable demonstrations and exercises for practical application.

"The hands-on demos for creating and mounting images were incredibly useful."

"I particularly enjoyed the practical aspects, like learning how to handle digital evidence as a first responder."

"Outstanding introductory course! The lab exercises on hash files and using a hex editor were fantastic for understanding the underlying data."

"The demonstrations were the strongest part, making complex processes like disk imaging understandable."

Delivers core concepts with notable clarity and effectiveness.

"The explanations on hashing and hexadecimal were surprisingly clear, and the hands-on demos for creating and mounting images were incredibly useful."

"I particularly enjoyed the practical aspects, like learning how to handle digital evidence as a first responder."

"Outstanding introductory course! The lab exercises on hash files and using a hex editor were fantastic for understanding the underlying data."

"Very clear and concise for an introduction. The demonstrations were the strongest part, making complex processes like disk imaging understandable."

Highly recommended for individuals with little to no prior experience.

"Excellent course for true beginners! The instructor simplifies complex topics without dumbing them down."

"This course provided a really solid foundation in the basics of computer forensics."

"A very good primer on computer forensics. The pace was just right for me, a complete novice."

"I found it moves a bit slow. If you have any prior IT experience, you might find it moves a bit slow."

Pacing suits beginners, but lacks depth for experienced learners.

"Decent overview. It's definitely for absolute beginners, as I found much of the content to be very basic."

"As someone with a networking background, I found this course too basic. It doesn't delve deep enough for me."

"I wish there were more advanced topics or case studies, but for fundamentals, it's really solid."

Some tools or presentation elements may seem a bit behind the times.

"Some of the tools felt a little dated, but they still served their purpose for understanding the concepts."

"The software installation part felt a bit clunky, and some links were broken which was frustrating."

"The software setup was a pain, and the content felt a little dated in terms of presentation style."

"My only minor critique is that some of the visual aids in the presentations could be updated for a crisper look."

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 Computer Forensics Fundamentals with these activities:

Organize and review your notes and materials

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Staying organized will help students keep track of the information they are learning and make it easier to review for exams.

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Create a system for organizing your notes
Review your notes regularly

Review hash functions

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Reviewing hash functions will strengthen foundational knowledge and make it easier to undertand how they are used in computer forensics.

Browse courses on Hash Functions

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Read the lecture notes on hash functions.
Complete the practice exercises on hash functions.

Guided Tutorials: Hashing and Hexadecimal in Computer Forensics

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Review the basics of hashing and hexadecimal to prepare for the course content on digital evidence analysis.

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Watch the provided video tutorials on hashing and hexadecimal concepts.
Complete the hands-on exercises to apply your understanding.
Take the quiz to assess your comprehension of the materials.

11 other activities

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Practice creating a forensic disk image

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Practicing forensic disk imaging will not only help solidify this skill, but also increase confidence in performing this procedure.

Browse courses on Computer Forensics

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Set up a virtual machine
Install a forensic imaging tool
Create a forensic disk image of the virtual machine

Watch video tutorials on computer forensics

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Video tutorials can provide students with a more engaging and interactive way to learn about computer forensics.

Browse courses on Computer Forensics

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Find video tutorials online
Watch the tutorials
Take notes

Complete practice exercises on computer forensics

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Practice exercises will help students reinforce their understanding of the concepts and techniques of computer forensics.

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Find practice exercises online
Complete the exercises
Review your answers

Join a study group or participate in online forums

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Engaging with peers can help students learn from each other and reinforce their understanding of the course material.

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Find a study group or online forum
Participate in discussions

Practice Drills: Creating and Mounting Forensic Images

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Engage in hands-on practice to develop proficiency in creating and mounting forensic images.

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Set up the forensic imaging software.
Create a forensic image of a sample drive.
Mount the forensic image and explore its contents.
Repeat the process with different types of drives or file systems (optional).

Peer Session: First Responder Procedures

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Engage with peers to discuss and reinforce procedures for first responders to a computer crime scene.

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Join a study group or discussion forum.
Participate in discussions and share your perspectives on first responder procedures.
Conduct mock exercises to practice securing digital evidence (optional).

Find a mentor in the field of computer forensics

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Finding a mentor will provide students with an opportunity to gain valuable insights and guidance from an experienced professional in the field.

Browse courses on Computer Forensics

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Attend industry events
Network with professionals on LinkedIn
Reach out to professors or instructors

Create a presentation on the basics of computer forensics

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Creating a presentation on the basics of computer forensics will help solidify the concepts students have learned and enhance their ability to explain them to others.

Browse courses on Computer Forensics

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Practice giving your presentation
Choose a topic for your presentation
Research your topic
Create a storyboard for your presentation
Develop the content for your slides

Project: Analyze a Forensic Image

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Apply your understanding of forensic imaging by analyzing a sample forensic image and identifying artifacts of interest.

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Obtain a sample forensic image.
Mount the image and explore its contents.
Identify and document artifacts related to the operating system, applications, and user activity.
Write a report summarizing your findings (optional).

Workshop: Advanced Forensic Analysis Techniques

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Attend a workshop to refine your forensic analysis skills and learn about advanced techniques.

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Identify relevant workshops and register for participation.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the sessions.
Engage with experts and fellow attendees to expand your knowledge.
Apply the learned techniques to your own forensic investigations (optional).

Volunteer: Assisting with Forensic Investigations

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Gain practical experience by volunteering to assist with forensic investigations under the supervision of professionals.

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Identify organizations or law enforcement agencies that offer volunteer opportunities in computer forensics.
Inquire about available opportunities and meet eligibility requirements.
Assist with forensic investigations under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Document your experiences and reflect on the practical aspects of computer forensics (optional).

Career center

Learners who complete Computer Forensics Fundamentals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Forensics Investigator

Computer Forensics Investigators are responsible for the collection, preservation, and examination of digital evidence. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate computer crimes and to help law enforcement and prosecution teams build strong cases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Forensics Investigator

Forensic Computer Analyst

Forensic Computer Analysts specialize in the examination and analysis of computer data in legal investigations. They use their skills to uncover evidence of crimes and to help law enforcement and prosecution teams build strong cases. The Computer Forensics Fundamentals course can provide a solid foundation in the principles and techniques of computer forensics, which can be essential for Forensic Computer Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Computer Analyst

Incident Responder

Incident Responders are responsible for responding to and investigating security incidents, including those involving computer systems. They use their skills to identify the source of an incident, contain the damage, and recover lost data. The Computer Forensics Fundamentals course can provide a strong foundation in the principles and techniques of computer forensics, which can be helpful for Incident Responders who need to investigate and respond to computer security incidents.

See salaries and explore the career path for Incident Responder

Forensic Science Technician

A Forensic Science Technician is responsible for collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence in criminal investigations. This can include digital evidence, such as computer data. The Computer Forensics Fundamentals course can provide a strong foundation in the principles and techniques of computer forensics, which can be helpful for Forensic Science Technicians who need to collect and analyze digital evidence.

See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Science Technician

Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for the protection of computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and respond to cybersecurity incidents and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for the management and maintenance of databases. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and resolve database corruption and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Information Security Manager

Information Security Managers are responsible for the development and implementation of security policies and procedures. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and respond to security breaches and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Manager

Data Analyst

Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to identify trends and patterns. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate data breaches and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence Analysts are responsible for the collection, analysis, and interpretation of intelligence information. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate cyber threats and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Intelligence Analyst

Technical Support Specialist

Technical Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems and networks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to troubleshoot and resolve technical problems and to identify and mitigate security risks.

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Network Engineer

Network Engineers are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer networks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and resolve network problems and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Computer Security Analyst

Computer Security Analysts plan, implement, and maintain security measures to protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. These professionals use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and respond to security breaches and to identify vulnerabilities in computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Security Analyst

Security Engineer

Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and respond to security breaches and to identify vulnerabilities in computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineers are responsible for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of computer networks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and respond to network security incidents and to identify vulnerabilities in network systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of computer systems and networks. They use their knowledge of computer forensics to investigate and resolve system failures and to identify and mitigate security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator