Guide to Computer Forensics and Investigations

by Bill Nelson, Amelia Phillips, Christopher Steuart

Master the skills necessary to launch and complete a successful computer investigation with the updated edition of this highly successful book, Guide to Computer Forensics and Investigations. This text will teach readers how to conduct a high-tech investigation, from acquiring digital evidence to reporting its findings. Coverage includes how to set up a forensics lab, how to acquire the proper and necessary tools, and how to conduct the investigation and subsequent digital analysis. The comprehensive coverage and detailed know-how led to the book being listed as recommended reading by the FBI Forensics Communications the United States Certified reading room. The book features free downloads of the latest forensic software, so students become familiar with the tools of the trade.

Genres: School, Technology, Textbooks, Nonfiction, Computers, Education, Technical

752 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2003

Reviews

[Shanni · Rating 3 out of 5]

While informative and covers a lot of content (police and private investigations, legal processes, chain of custody, working with live machines and copies, mobile phone forensics, and more), it's a little about a lot. I guess that's the point, as it's essentially an introduction. However, a number of the labs were close to impossible since they relied on demo versions of paid software that you could only get by contacting the vendor. I did so (along with other classmates and professors), and never heard back. I had similar experiences with software which has the same capabilities as those taught in the book. If not for that, I would have found the guide more useful if the tools were available, as the book provides step by step instructions.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is definitely more of a survey class textbook. As a Cengage Mindtap product, and used for a course personally, the labs in the book are moderately okay. Cengage's labs through their VM provider are extremely problematic. If you want to use this book as a standalone to get started with Digital Forensics, it is an okay resource. If you're looking to try the entire Mindtap experience, I would suggest skipping this because of the problems with the online labs.

[Steven van Doorn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't like how this book was organized. I felt like it honed in on details without giving enough perspective for the details to make sense. Maybe it just wasn't written at college students taking the course at this level, but I got a lot more out of the lectures, discussions and projects than the book.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written and covering a lot of topics but to a minimal level. Recommended for a computer forensic student, perhaps less so for a computer forensic practitioner.

[Pranshu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good for anyone starting out with Computer Forensics Investigations. Definitely suggested.

[Pranish]

how do I read books from goodreads?

[Meghan]

I'm so glad I'm done with this book!