Summary
In this chapter, we explained the importance of profiling system details using the Windows Registry, such as identifying the Windows OS version, current control set, computer name, and time zone. We also covered investigating installed applications, network interfaces, historical network connections, user activities, shutdown information, and more.
We explored how to analyze Windows Registry data using tools such as Registry Explorer and how to extract information from specific registry keys, including RecentDocs
, TypedPaths
, and TypedURLs
. By analyzing the Windows Registry, forensic analysts can determine system and user activity, identify potential security breaches, and create a timeline of events that can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.
In the next chapter, we will cover application execution artifacts, which is an important concept to understand for forensic analysts.