With the growing popularity of SSDs, forensic investigators must understand the critical differences between HDD and SSD forensic analysis.
Key Differences in HDD vs. SSD Forensics
- Storage Mechanism:
- HDDs store data magnetically; SSDs use NAND flash memory.
- SSDs have wear leveling, complicating data recovery.
- Data Deletion:
- HDDs allow easier recovery of deleted files.
- SSDs often use TRIM commands, permanently erasing deleted data.
- Speed of Investigation:
- HDDs are slower, allowing more opportunities for forensic imaging.
- SSDs process data faster but may require specialized tools.
- Durability and Data Integrity:
- HDDs are prone to physical damage; SSDs are more robust.
- However, SSDs have limited write cycles compared to HDDs.
Conclusion
Understanding these differences helps forensic analysts choose the right approach for each storage type.