also known as digital forensics, is a branch of forensic science that involves the collection, analysis, and preservation of electronic evidence from computers, networks, and digital devices. Here’s a brief overview of computer forensics:

1. Purpose: Computer forensics is primarily used to investigate and analyze digital evidence related to cybercrimes, computer intrusions, data breaches, intellectual property theft, fraud, and other computer-related offenses. It aims to recover, analyze, and present digital information in a forensically sound manner that is admissible in a court of law.
2. Data Collection: Computer forensic investigators employ specialized tools and techniques to gather electronic evidence from various sources, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, servers, cloud storage, and network logs. The evidence can include files, emails, chat logs, internet browsing history, system logs, deleted data, and metadata.
3. Preservation and Integrity: Maintaining the integrity of digital evidence is crucial in computer forensics. Investigators use write-blocking devices or software to ensure that the original evidence is not altered during the collection process. They create forensic copies (bit-by-bit images) of the original data, preserving the original state for analysis while working with the copies to avoid any accidental modifications.
4. Analysis and Examination: Computer forensic experts employ various techniques to analyze the acquired digital evidence. This may involve recovering deleted or hidden files, examining file timestamps and metadata, identifying encryption methods and cracking passwords, examining network traffic, and reconstructing user activities. Specialized software tools are used to assist in the analysis and extraction of relevant information.
5. Reporting and Presentation: Once the analysis is complete, computer forensic professionals document their findings in a detailed report, including the methods used, the evidence collected, the analysis conducted, and the conclusions drawn. This report is presented in a clear and understandable manner, providing an objective account of the digital evidence that can be used in legal proceedings.
6. Expert Testimony: In legal cases, computer forensic experts may be called upon to provide expert testimony based on their findings. They explain the techniques used, the significance of the evidence, and the conclusions drawn from their analysis. Their testimony helps the court understand the technical aspects and implications of the digital evidence presented.

It’s important to note that computer forensics is a rapidly evolving field due to advancements in technology. Investigators need to stay up to date with the latest tools, techniques, and legal considerations to effectively handle digital evidence.