Digital Forensic Certification Practice Exam

What is the term for the analysis of logs performed to detect and understand a past incident within a network?

1. Forensic Examination

2. Log Monitoring

3. Postmortem Analysis

4. Incident Response

The correct answer is: Postmortem Analysis

The correct term is indeed identified as postmortem analysis, which specifically refers to the detailed examination of logs after an incident has occurred within a network. This process involves reviewing historical data to understand what transpired during the event, including identifying the timeline, nature of the incident, and the actions taken. By analyzing logs, forensic experts can gather vital information that helps in reconstructing the sequence of events, determining the impact of the incident, and identifying any vulnerabilities that may have been exploited. This analysis is crucial for improving future security measures and response strategies. In contrast, forensic examination is a broader term that encompasses various methods of investigating digital evidence, whereas log monitoring involves ongoing observation of logs in real-time to catch anomalies as they happen. Incident response pertains to the immediate actions taken to address and mitigate the impact of a security breach rather than the retrospective analysis of the incident after it has occurred.