WINDOWS FORENSICS

Forensic Analysis of the Master File Table (MFT) – The Heart of the NTFS File System

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

Forensic analysis
Documentation admissible in court
GDPR-compliant processing
Experienced experts

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

The MFT contains extensive information about files and directories and is therefore an essential part of almost every Windows forensic investigation. It often allows conclusions to be drawn about file operations, but it is never a substitute for a comprehensive analysis of all relevant artefacts.

OUR APPROACH

This is how your examination will be carried out

A transparent process – from the initial enquiry to the handover of the report.

1
Once a forensic image has been created, the MFT entries are extracted and analysed. This is followed by correlation with other artefacts in order to present technical relationships in a clear and comprehensible manner. All stages of the investigation are fully documented.

TYPICAL QUESTIONS

When is this analysis required?

  • Reconstruction of file movements
  • Recovery of deleted files
  • Data theft
  • Allegations of manipulation
  • Cyber attacks
  • Employment law proceedings
  • Presentation of evidence in court

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

We analyse MFT entries, file attributes, timestamps, file names, directory mappings and other NTFS metadata. The aim is to objectively reconstruct technical processes and to provide transparent documentation of all findings as part of an IT forensic report.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

What our customers say

4.8 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot · 54 reviews

★★★★★

“The highest standards of professionalism, prompt service and excellent communication. They made the seemingly impossible a reality. This is what genuine customer service is all about – unrivalled in Germany!”

idalein

Verified review on Trustpilot

★★★★★

“Very helpful advice, excellent responsiveness and communication. My problem was completely resolved and the lost data was recovered. I’m very satisfied and, of course, relieved!”

Layla Pankratz

Verified review on Trustpilot

★★★★★

“My problem was sorted out professionally and quickly; everyone I spoke to was always friendly, and I can still get in touch if I have any questions – I’m very grateful for that!”

a woman from Cologne

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Do you need a professional analysis of the Master File Table or a Windows system? LanCologne can assist you with the forensically sound preservation of digital evidence and the objective analysis of relevant NTFS artefacts.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to see the answer.

Do you have any further questions?
Please contact us for a free initial consultation.