Evaluating Network Forensics Applying Advanced Tools

Abstract

Network forensics comes under the domain of digital forensics and deals with evidences left behind on the networkiafter a cyber-attack. It is indication of the weakness that led to the crime and the possible cause. Network focused research comes up with many challenges which involves the collection, storage, content, privacy, confiscation and the admissibility. It is important and critical for any network forensic researcher or the investigator to consider adopting efficient forensic network investigation framework or the methodologies in order to improve investigation process. The main aim of this research contribution was to do a comprehensive analysis of concepts of networks forensics through extensive investigation and by analyzing various methodologies and associated tools which should be used in the network forensic investigations. Detailed and in depth analysis of concepts of network forensic investigation on a designed/conceived network architecture was carried out which was then followed by analyzing various methodologies and tools employed. An innovative framework for the investigation was designed which can be used by any forensic expert. The acquired data was analyzed by using information, strategizing and collecting evidence and by analyzing and reporting of the methodologies on the conceptualized network. Consequently, it led to the researcher to adopt and utilize a powerful and efficient forensic network methodology that will ultimately help in improving the investigation process and providing required tools/techniques along with the requisite guidelines that will determine the approach, methods, and strategies which are to be used for networkiforensiciprocess to be followed and be executed with the use of relevant tools that will tend to help in the simplification and improvement of the forensics investigation process.