IT Forensics · Linux

Forensic classification of deleted files on Btrfs and XFS – specifically taking into account the differences compared to ext4

Btrfs and XFS differ significantly from ext4 in terms of their deletion and allocation behaviour. Whilst Btrfs, through copy-on-write, may offer additional recovery options via snapshots, XFS tends to reuse freed space more quickly.

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Applying ext4-specific expectations across the board to Btrfs or XFS therefore often leads to incorrect assessments of the prospects of success. Each file system requires a separate technical assessment.

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Since its foundation, LanCologne has specialised in professional IT forensics. Our staff have decades of experience in the field of information technology and assist companies, solicitors, private individuals and, on a regular basis, the courts in the technical investigation of complex digital matters.

The examination is, as a matter of principle, carried out exclusively on a forensic copy, a forensic image or a data source captured in a technically equivalent manner that preserves the integrity of the evidence. The original evidence remains unchanged and is stored in a manner that preserves its integrity.

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For each file system in question, we assess on a case-by-case basis which recovery methods are available – such as via Btrfs snapshots, copy-on-write remnants or remaining XFS metadata fragments – and document the respective limitations transparently.

Typical areas of application

•Assessment of recoverability on modern file systems
•Comparison of the likelihood of success between different file systems
•Investigation following targeted deletion on Server file systems
•Consultation prior to commissioning a complex reconstruction
•Incident Response on Linux Systems
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports

This is how deleted data is handled on Btrfs and XFS

Once the backup has been completed, the specific file system is first identified. For Btrfs, the system checks whether any usable snapshots or copy-on-write remnants are present. For XFS, it examines the extent to which metadata and data blocks have not yet been reused. The respective results are documented in a transparent manner.

Why is this file system-specific classification important?

Customers often expect that deleted files can be recovered in the same way, regardless of the file system used. This assumption is not technically correct and can lead to false expectations.

A realistic, file-system-specific assessment is essential for providing sound advice and prevents unnecessary effort being wasted on reconstruction attempts that are technically unfeasible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is recovery easier on Btrfs than on ext4?+
Not necessarily. Existing snapshots may offer additional options; without snapshots, similar restrictions apply as with other file systems.
Why is XFS considered more difficult when it comes to data recovery?+
With XFS, released storage areas tend to be reused more quickly, which means the window of opportunity for a successful reconstruction may be shorter.
Is it possible to give a reliable success rate in advance?+
No. A reliable assessment can only be made following a technical diagnosis of the specific case.

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