IT Forensics – Windows

Forensic analysis of Windows autostart entries – identifying persistence mechanisms

Autostart entries determine which programmes are run automatically when Windows starts up or when a user logs in. They are among the most important artefacts in a Windows forensic investigation, as they can provide clues about legitimate applications, unwanted software or malware persistence mechanisms.

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As part of a professional IT forensic investigation, autostart entries are never assessed in isolation. Only by correlating them with the Windows Registry, event logs, prefetch files, Amcache, ShimCache and other Windows artefacts is it possible to carry out a reliable technical assessment.

Why LanCologne?

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 carried out exclusively on a forensic copy or a forensic image. The original evidence remains unchanged and is stored in a manner that preserves its evidential integrity.

Our services

We analyse registry-based autostart entries, autostart folders, scheduled startup mechanisms and other persistence points. All results are cross-referenced with other digital traces and documented in a transparent manner.

Typical areas of application

•Incident Response
•Analysis of malware
•Investigation of persistence mechanisms
•Reconstruction of system changes
•Employment law proceedings
•Expert reports for the courts

This is how the analysis works

Once a forensic image has been created, all relevant autostart entries are analysed. The results are then correlated with other Windows artefacts and assessed from a technical perspective.

Why are autostart entries important?

They may indicate the existence of permanently installed programmes or tampering with the system. However, their significance can only be determined through a comprehensive analysis of all relevant digital traces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are autostart entries?+
Configurations that cause programmes to run automatically at system start-up or when logging in.
Is the original system being examined?+
No. Only a forensic copy or forensic image is analysed.
Can malware use autostart entries?+
Yes. Persistence mechanisms are among the typical areas of investigation in an IT forensic analysis.
Are autorun entries alone sufficient for an expert report?+
No. They are always analysed alongside other Windows artefacts.

LanCologne – Windows Forensics in Cologne

Do you need a professional analysis of Windows start-up entries or other Windows artefacts? LanCologne can assist you with the forensic preservation of digital evidence and the objective analysis of complex Windows systems.

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