In the era where technology reigns supreme, our lives and businesses are increasingly interconnected and digitized. This has numerous benefits, but it also presents significant challenges- one of which is cybercrime. This cyber threat landscape has led to the rise of a new field: computer forensics in cyber security. So, what is computer forensics in cyber security and how does it work? Let's delve into it.

Cyber forensics, also known as computer forensics, is the application of scientific investigatory techniques to digital crimes and attacks. It is a crucial aspect of law and business in the internet age and can be a rewarding and lucrative career path for those interested in problem solving, discovery and justice.

What is Computer Forensics in Cyber Security?

Computer forensics in cyber security refers to the process of collecting, analyzing, and preserving electronic evidence to bring cybercriminals to justice. It's evidently much more than just technological sleuthing - it's about seeking, identifying, interpreting and reporting evidence of cyber crimes. Having this evidence enables organizations to understand the nature of the threat, the damage done, what vulnerabilities were exploited, and which measures to take to prevent future attacks.

An Overview of Computer Forensics Process

At its core, the process of computer forensics involves three fundamental steps: acquisition, analysis, and reporting. Acquisition is the process of collecting digital evidence from various sources such as computers, networks, and storage devices. Analysis is when the collected data is meticulously processed to determine supportive evidence for criminal activities. Reporting involves documenting the findings and the process of investigation in a comprehensive, precise, and legally admissible manner.

Different Techniques in Computer Forensics

Here are the most common techniques that professionals use in computer forensics in cyber security:

1. Disk imaging and analysis

Disk imaging involves creating an exact duplicate of the target storage device while analysis entails scrutinizing the duplicate image for evidence.

2. File recovery

This technique involves recovering or reconstructing files that have been deleted or partially overwritten. This is often done to uncover evidence of malicious activities that have been erased or hidden.

3. Network forensics

Network forensics aims to monitor and analyze network traffic for purposes of intrusion detection, legal evidence collection, and Incident response. It plays a significant role in identifying unauthorized network intrusions and tracing back the source of any attacks.

Importance of Computer Forensics in Cyber Security

Simply put, the goal of computer forensics in cyber security is to provide the means for understanding the events surrounding a digital crime so that it can be resolved decisively. Not only does it allow the ability to track down the perpetrators of a cyber crime, it also offers insights into how a breach occurred and provides guidelines on how to prevent similar events from recurring. In a broader perspective, computer forensics also helps in enforcing policies within an organization by detecting any policy violations, clarifying any uncertainties, and establishing a reliable security posture by understanding vulnerabilities and addressing them actively.

The Future of Computer Forensics in Cyber Security

With the sophistication and frequency of cyber threats showing no signs of abating, the importance of computer forensics in cyber security is set to grow. We can expect evolving methodologies and tools, more rigorous training programs, and increasing collaboration between security and law enforcement agencies. With these evolutions, the key question remains: what is computer forensics in cyber security? With the continuously changing landscape, the answer will evolve, but the core principle of seeking truth in electronic evidence will undoubtedly remain firm.

In conclusion, given the significant growth and dominance of digital platforms, the dependency on computer forensics in cyber security is immense. Understanding 'what is computer forensics in cyber security' is vital for individuals and organizations alike in order to prepare, prevent, and prevail over cyber threats. The field, though demanding, offers immense fascination and is undeniably a vital weapon in the fight against cybercrime. As we step further into this digital age, computer forensics will continue to assume an increasingly indispensable role in maintaining the security of our interconnected world.