Computer forensics is a branch of forensic science (in short, forensics). Forensics is the technical research that seeks to prove innocence or guilt in a court of individuals, locations, and objects to collect evidence during criminal investigations.
The forensic machines, also called digital forensics, have a similar function. They are specialized in electronic communications science research and automated storage systems data such as disks and CD-ROMs.
Though relatively recent, computer forensics is a growing area of profession. That’s because cyber crimes evolved so rapidly that they soon became a part of life. Do you want to know more about working with computer forensics? Check out this article now!
Working with Computer Forensics: Overview
Computer forensics experts, also known as specialists in computer forensics, computer forensics examiners, or computer forensics analysts, are tasked with uncovering and explaining the details found on a digital item or its condition or existence.
Digital objects include computer computers, hard drives, DVDs, other storage devices, and electronic documents and files such as JPEG images and emails. Computer forensics’ fast-growing field comprises many divisions relating to firewalls, networks, databases, and mobile devices.
Technicians in digital forensics can find employment for many forms of organizations: government (local, state, and federal), accounting firms, law firms, banks, and software development firms.
In general, any company that has a computer network can need a specialist in digital forensics. Many experts in digital forensics opt to start their own company, allowing them to work for clients.
Types of Jobs in Computer Forensics
Work in computer forensics may have several titles and responsibilities. Computer Forensics compensation can also vary depending on the field in which they work. Here are some of the jobs in computer forensics.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts must prepare and enforce security measures to secure networking networks, computer systems, and critical data.
Governments, healthcare networks, commercial banks, and financial institutions are the most common places of jobs for information security analysts.
Between 2016 and 2026, this sector is projected to rise by 28%, which is much faster than the national average for all jobs.
Base Wage: $95,510 per year.
Computer Systems Analyst
A computer systems analyst helps an organization use technology in the most effective ways possible. They decide which software can help the organization run more efficiently, and which software would be a hindrance.
They do this through analysis and thorough evaluation. Another central position of computer system analysts is to train company staff on how to use the software and troubleshoot any problems they might have.
Base Wage: $88,270 per year.
Malware Analyst
A malware analyst is a specialist in detecting cyber threats to protect a company’s data, such as worms, bots, and trojan viruses.
Some of a malware analyst’s duties include investigating a cyber attack and reverse-engineering its damage. Many malware researchers may be tasked with designing protocols for the detection of potential malware attacks.
Average Wage: $88,898 per year.
How and Where to Apply for Jobs
One of the many advantages of working with computer forensics is the availability of jobs online. Try out these job portals that will redirect you to the latest job openings in this field.
General Educational Requirements
Though relatively recent, computer forensics is a growing area of profession. That’s because cyber crimes evolved so rapidly that they soon became a part of life. They have caused, and continue to cause losses in billions of dollars annually.
To start a career in computer forensics, you’ll need a degree in computer forensics or a similar degree. A similar degree can be in computer science, criminal justice, or engineering, with computer forensics preparation tackled on, such as through degree major and minor.
A post-degree certification in computer forensics is also a good option. Practical skills and knowledge required to depend on the career niche in computer forensics. Nonetheless, like all careers in computer forensics, technological and analytical skills are a must.
Knowledge and expertise open further doors in a wide range of computer storage devices, operating systems, programming languages, and software applications. And in some of the following examples, information and skills do. Whatever the case, a solid comprehension of the law is a must for this field.
Conclusion
Computer forensics is a discipline that is continuously evolving. For computer forensics investigators, new problems emerge as cyber crimes increase in frequency, complexity, and developments in hardware and software.
Computer forensics can also be challenging because, with a criminal investigation, you also need to locate details quickly, and suspects can be extremely skilled in technology.
