Unlike many other computer science careers<\/a>, computer forensics is a branch of the forensics that law enforcement uses to investigate crimes. Most computer forensics investigators work with law enforcement, state agencies, and federal agencies such as the FBI.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n Computer forensics investigators search for and examine the evidence in digital crimes. They analyze the data and evidence to determine whether or not the evidence supports the case.<\/p>\r\n Most computer forensics investigators<\/a> work for federal and state government agencies or law enforcement agencies. Most often, these agencies are in and around Washington, D.C.<\/p>\r\n In addition to collecting evidence, they write reports on the evidence, take pictures of their findings, and testify in court. They also need to know the procedures, laws, and regulations related to their investigations to properly carry them out.<\/p>\r\n Computer forensics investigators test the security of data and digital information, and recommend changes to make this information more secure.<\/p>\r\n If you’re interested in computer forensic investigation, you may also consider similar job titles such as digital forensics analyst and forensic computer analyst.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n \r\n Most computer forensics investigators hold bachelor's degree in computer forensics<\/a>, which take four years of full-time study. Though many positions in this field require several years of professional experience, earning an advanced degree<\/a> may reduce the number of years you need to qualify for some jobs.<\/p>\r\n Many computer forensic investigators pursue professional certification to verify their mastery of specific career skills. Often, these credentials require periodic renewal, which may involve continuous work experience in digital forensics and the completion of continuing education credits.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n Many computer forensics investigators pursue experience in law enforcement or information technology. Often, positions require between 18 months to five years of experience. No matter which path you choose, most positions require a four-year bachelor's degree. A master's degree in computer forensics<\/a> may lessen experience requirements.<\/p>\r\n Professionals without a significant background in computers and forensics can complete bootcamps like the certified computer examiner program from the International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners<\/a> (ISFCE). This in-person bootcamp lasts a week and leads to a credential that can help professionals qualify for computer forensics careers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n \r\n Professional certifications<\/a> for computer forensics investigators verify specific skills to employers, demonstrating the training and knowledge acquired from completing a certification course. These credentials can help you stand out in the job search or qualify for pay raises and promotions. Certifications can also help hone your skills in computer forensics if you do not have a technology-related educational background.<\/p>\r\n Popular digital forensic investigator certifications include:<\/p>\r\n Most computer forensics investigators hold bachelor's degrees in fields like computer science, information technology<\/a>, or criminal justice. Then, they accrue 18 months to 5 years of experience in law enforcement or information technology.<\/p>\r\n Regardless of educational background, these careers require professionals to develop skills in IT and forensics. In addition to on-the-job experience, workers can pursue professional certifications<\/a> or advanced degrees to build the requisite body of knowledge for this field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n \r\n As an aspiring computer forensic investigator, you have two common career paths into the field, each with several steps. Learn more about the paths computer forensics investigators take to start their career below.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Aspiring computer forensics investigators should consider many factors before they choose this career. Computer forensics investigators play an important role<\/a> in crime investigation and the security of digital information. However, they may encounter sensitive content during their work. They often put in long hours, maintaining flexibility to meet tight deadlines and quickly adapt to new developments in cases.<\/p>\r\n Gaining further experience and education can qualify these professionals for mid- and senior-level positions. Along with added responsibilities, these advanced roles come with more pay. According to Payscale data<\/a> from March 2023, midcareer computer forensics investigators make an average salary of $89,530 — over $17,000 higher than the $72,290 average their early career counterparts earn.<\/p>\r\n\r\n My company was servicing small and medium businesses as general IT consultants. Some of our clients were mid-sized law firms. The law firms started coming to us with hard drives, wanting us to try to recover deleted files and emails or determine activity on the drives. Our company started looking into this new field, digital forensics, and saw it to be more exciting and it had an exciting future.<\/p>\r\n\r\n We provide digital forensic services to companies in multiple industries and of different sizes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n My background is a degree in computer engineering. There was not a cybersecurity or digital forensic degree when I went to college. That said, I still believe that a background in computer engineering or computer science sets one up better for forensics or cybersecurity. Every day, I leverage my general knowledge in computers when performing digital forensic services.<\/p>\r\n\r\n \"Ultimately, though, it is whether you continually learn that sets you apart from others.\"<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\r\n\r\n\r\n I earned both the EnCase certified examiner (EnCE) and digital forensic certified professional (DFCP). The EnCE required taking a multi-choice application and a practical application. The DFCP required filling out an application and passing a written exam. Both certifications have continuing education requirements. Today, individuals can get degrees in digital forensics or go the path I went. Ultimately, though, it is whether you continually learn that sets you apart from others.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n My first piece of advice is to get an internship while in college. Many companies in this space want people with experience — an internship is one way to do that. Also, an internship is often like an interview for the company with whom you are interning. If you already have graduated, consider a certification and\/or appropriate training to add to your computer skills. I would say that unless you have experience in the industry or a combination of a degree in the computer field and relevant training\/certification, it will be tough to break in. Most entry-level jobs are usually data collection positions, versus a position that is analyzing the data. So, understanding the different sources of data (cloud, email, workstation, mobile device, etc.) and how to extract data from them is important.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n Nothing I can think of for me, as I gravitated to the field over time. That said, for someone coming into the field, expect periods of time that involve long hours, sometimes into the evenings or on weekends. This field involves critical deadlines that cannot be broken. Clients expect all resources and times to be dedicated to making those deadlines. While I hate the phrase \"ASAP,\" because it really doesn't impose a deadline, that is quite often how this industry works.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Greg Kelley, EnCE, DFCP, is a founder and the chief technology officer of Vestige Digital Investigations. He leads Vestige's digital forensic services. His responsibilities include helping to determine strategic direction of the company and overseeing the day-to-day operations and internal information systems infrastructure. He helps in performing as well as managing the digital forensic investigations and leads the members of the Vestige team<\/p>\r\n\r\n Greg has over 20 years of experience working in the computer industry, including custom software design and implementation, network management and security, database programming, disaster recovery, and end-user support. For the past 19 years, Greg has helped Vestige become one of the few companies capable of performing comprehensive digital forensic investigations. He has worked on criminal and civil matters covering areas such as intrusion and incident response, intellectual property theft, fraud, and uncovering hidden assets.<\/p>\r\n\n <\/div>\n \n \n What Does a Computer Forensics Investigator Do?<\/h2>\r\n
Education Requirements for Computer Forensics Investigators<\/h2>\r\n
Experience Requirements for Computer Forensics Investigators<\/h2>\r\n
Certifications for Computer Forensics Investigators<\/h2>\r\n
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Learning How to Be a Computer Forensics Investigator<\/h2>\r\n
Steps to Becoming a Computer Forensics Investigator<\/h3>\r\n
Technology Path<\/h4>\r\n
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Law Enforcement Path<\/h4>\r\n
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Should I Become a Computer Forensics Investigator?<\/h3>\r\n
Professional Spotlight: Greg Kelley<\/h3>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\nWhat prompted your journey to become a computer forensics investigator?<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n\r\n
If you work in a particular industry, what prompted this choice and\/or how did it evolve?<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n\r\n
What educational path did you take to become a computer forensics investigator?<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n\r\n
Did you have to pass any certifications or tests to enter the field or progress in your career?<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n\r\n
What advice do you have for individuals considering becoming a computer forensics investigator?<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n\r\n
What do you wish you'd known before becoming a computer forensics investigator?<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n\r\n
![\"Portrait](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/highereducation\/image\/upload\/v1646845250\/Greg_Kelley.jpg\")
\n Greg Kelley, EnCE, DFCP<\/h4>\n