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soc:forensics:windows:start [2026/06/09 15:25] – titannetsoc:forensics:windows:start [2026/06/09 17:17] (current) – titannet
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   * Binary file storage, ''%WinDir%\System32\config''   * Binary file storage, ''%WinDir%\System32\config''
   * For OS, applications and users   * For OS, applications and users
 +  * Classes/Hives (key value store)
 +    * HKCR, Classes Root
 +    * HKCU, Current User, ''%UserProfile%\ntuser.dat'', mirrored/alias to HKU\SID\ (?)
 +      * ''NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\CurrentVersion\Run''
 +      * UAC -> AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\UsrClass.dat
 +        * 
 +    * HKLM, Local Machine
 +      * SAM, Local Account information incl. users and groups
 +      * Security, Security information, policy and identifiers
 +      * Software, Configuration for applications including OS
 +      * System, Configuration for hardware devices and system services
 +      * BCD, Boot system
 +    * HKU, Users
 +    * HKCC, Current Config, alias to ''HKLM\System\ControlSet001''
  
 +  * Format:
 +    * Hive -> Keys -> Subkeys -> Value name : Value type : Value
 +      * Only subkeys have timestamps (value do not)
  
  
 +==== MFT ====
 +
 +
 +==== NTFS ====
 +
 +  * Defined change rules (see below)
 +
 +=== Volume Shadow Copy ===
 +
 +  * Block/cluster level backup of changes in NTFS
 +  * Snapshots created approximately weekly (schedules, software install/uninstall, manual)
 +  * Default 3-5% of disk space
 +  * (Recovery and Windows Restore are separate mechanisms)
 +
 +  * VSC Tools:
 +    * 
 +
 +
 +
 +==== Event Logs ====
 +
 +  * All windows logs 
 +  * In ''%systemroot%\System32\winevt\logs'', (can be configured)
 +  * Separate files per log
 +    * Security.evtx
 +    * System.evtx
 +    * Appliation.evtx
 +    * [...]
 +      * Custom log symbols can be stored in application specific files (-> Elmo tool to recover)
 +  * Logging extent and forwarding can be defined (WEF)
 +
 +  * Types
 +    * Error
 +    * Warning
 +    * Information
 +    * Success Audit
 +    * Failure Audit
 +  * Categories
 +    * Account Logon
 +    * Accoung Mgmt
 +    * Directory Service
 +    * Logon Events
 +    * Object Access
 +    * Policy Change
 +    * Privilege Use
 +    * Process Tracking
 +    * System Events
 +
 +  * Events
 +    * lots of event IDs
 +
 +  * Type code
 +    * Important distinction via type code
 +
 +===== Log Events =====
 +
 +==== Security ====
 +
 +| 4624 || Succesful Logon |
 +| | 0 | System Used only by the System account, for example at system startup.|
 +| | 2 | Interactive A user logged on to this computer.|
 +| | 3 | Network A user or computer logged on to this computer from the network.|
 +| | 4 | Batch Batch logon type is used by batch servers, where processes can be run on behalf of a user without their direct intervention.|
 +| | 5 | Service The Service Control Manager started a service.|
 +| | 7 | Unlock This workstation was unlocked.|
 +| | 8 | NetworkCleartext A user logged on to this computer from the network. The user's password was passed to the authentication package in its unhashed form. The built-in authentication packages all hash credentials before sending them across the network. The credentials don't traverse the network in plaintext (also called cleartext).|
 +| | 9 | NewCredentials A caller cloned its current token and specified new credentials for outbound connections. The new logon session has the same local identity, but uses different credentials for other network connections.|
 +| | 10 | RemoteInteractive A user logged on to this computer remotely using Terminal Services or Remote Desktop.|
 +| | 11 | CachedInteractive A user logged on to this computer with network credentials that were stored locally on the computer.  The domain controller wasn't contacted to verify the credentials. |
 +| | 12 | CachedRemoteInteractive Same as RemoteInteractive. This type is used for internal auditing. |
 +| | 13 | CachedUnlock Workstation logon. |
 +| 4625 || Failed Logon |
 +| | 2 | Interactive A user logged on to this computer. |
 +| | 3 | Network A user or computer logged on to this computer from the network. |
 +| | 4 | Batch Batch logon type is used by batch servers, where processes may be executing on behalf of a user without their direct intervention.|
 +| | 5 | Service A service was started by the Service Control Manager.|
 +| | 7 | Unlock This workstation was unlocked.|
 +| | 8 | NetworkCleartext A user logged on to this computer from the network. The user's password was passed to the authentication package in its unhashed form. The built-in authentication packages all hash credentials before sending them across the network. The credentials do not traverse the network in plaintext (also called cleartext).|
 +| | 9 | NewCredentials A caller cloned its current token and specified new credentials for outbound connections. The new logon session has the same local identity, but uses different credentials for other network connections.|
 +| | 10 | RemoteInteractive A user logged on to this computer remotely using Terminal Services or Remote Desktop.|
 +| | 11 | CachedInteractive A user logged on to this computer with network credentials that were stored locally on the computer. The domain controller was not contacted to verify the credentials.|
 +| 4634 || |
 +| 4672 || Special Privileges Assigned |
 +| 4720/4726 || User account creation/deletion |
 +| 4648 || Logon with explicit credentials, connected to other events via Account Name, Account Domain, Logon GUID |
 +
 +==== Service? ====
 +
 +|  ||  |
 +|  ||  |
 +|  ||  |
 +
 +6005 / 6006 — Event Log Service Started/Stopped:
 +7036 — Service State Change:
 +7045 — New Service Installed: 
  
  
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 </code> </code>
  
-Any executable present in the file system could be found in this key. Data  +Any executable present in the file system could be found in this key. 
-can be particularly useful to identify the presence of malware on devices  +
-where other application execution data is missing (such as Windows  +
-servers). +
 • Full path of executable • Full path of executable
-• Windows 7+ contains up to 1,024 entries (96 entries in WinXP) +• Windows 7+ contains up to 1,024  
-• Post-WinXP no execution time is available  +• Executables can be preemptively added prior to execution. -> 
-• Executables can be preemptively added to the database prior to execution. +
 The existence of an executable in this key does not prove actual execution. The existence of an executable in this key does not prove actual execution.
  
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 </code> </code>
  
-Interpretation 
 • Only tracks GUI applications • Only tracks GUI applications
 • Does not include timestamps • Does not include timestamps
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 <code> <code>
 C:\Windows\AppCompat\Programs\Amcache.hve C:\Windows\AppCompat\Programs\Amcache.hve
 +Amcache.hve\Root\File\{Volume GUID}\###
 </code> </code>
  
-Interpretation 
 • A complete registry hive, with multiple sub-keys • A complete registry hive, with multiple sub-keys
 • Full path, file size, file modification time, compilation time, and publisher  • Full path, file size, file modification time, compilation time, and publisher 
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 </code> </code>
  
-Interpretation 
 • Each jump list file is named according to an application identifier  • Each jump list file is named according to an application identifier 
 (AppID). List of Jump List IDs -> https://dfir.to/EZJumpList (AppID). List of Jump List IDs -> https://dfir.to/EZJumpList
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 • Automatic Jump List Modification Time = Last time item added to the  • Automatic Jump List Modification Time = Last time item added to the 
 jump list. Typically, the last time the application opened an object.  jump list. Typically, the last time the application opened an object. 
-Last Visited MRU + 
-Description +==== Last Visited MRU ==== 
-Tracks applications in use by the user and the directory location for the  +//Tracks applications in use by the user and the directory location for the  
-last file accessed by the application. +last file accessed by the application.// 
-Location+ 
 +<code>
 • XP: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\LastVisitedMRU • XP: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\LastVisitedMRU
-• Win7+: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\ +• Win7+: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\LastVisitedPidlMRU 
-LastVisitedPidlMRU +</code> 
-Interpretation+
 We get two important pieces of information from this key: applications  We get two important pieces of information from this key: applications 
 executed by the user, and the last place in the file system that those  executed by the user, and the last place in the file system that those 
 applications interacted with. Interesting and hidden directories are often  applications interacted with. Interesting and hidden directories are often 
 identified via this registry key.  identified via this registry key. 
-Commands Executed in the Run Dialog + 
-Description +==== Commands Executed in the Run Dialog ==== 
-A history of commands typed into the Run dialog box are stored for  +//History of commands typed into the Run dialog box per user.// 
-each user. + 
-Location+<code>
 NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RunMRU NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RunMRU
-Interpretation +</code> 
-It is an MRU key, so it has temporal order via the MRUList key + 
-Windows 10 Timeline +Temporal order via MRUList key 
-Description + 
-Win10 records recently used applications and files in a “timeline”  +==== Windows 10 Timeline ==== 
-database in SQLite format.  +//Win10 records recently used applications and files in a “timeline” sqlite db.// 
-Location+ 
 +<code>
 C:\Users\<profile>\AppData\Local\ConnectedDevicesPlatform\<account-ID>\ActivitiesCache.db C:\Users\<profile>\AppData\Local\ConnectedDevicesPlatform\<account-ID>\ActivitiesCache.db
-Interpretation+</code> 
 • Full path of executed application • Full path of executed application
 • Start time, end time, and duration • Start time, end time, and duration
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 • URLs visited • URLs visited
 • Databases still present even after feature deprecation in late-Win10 • Databases still present even after feature deprecation in late-Win10
-BAM/DAM + 
-Description+==== BAM/DAM ====
 Windows Background/Desktop Activity Moderator (BAM/DAM) is  Windows Background/Desktop Activity Moderator (BAM/DAM) is 
 maintained by the Windows power management sub-system. (Available in  maintained by the Windows power management sub-system. (Available in 
 Win10+) Win10+)
-Location + 
 +<code>
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\bam\State\UserSettings\{SID} • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\bam\State\UserSettings\{SID}
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\dam\State\UserSettings\{SID} • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\dam\State\UserSettings\{SID}
-Interpretation+</code> 
 • Provides full path of file executed and last execution date/time • Provides full path of file executed and last execution date/time
 • Typically up to one week of data available • Typically up to one week of data available
 • “State” key used in Win10 1809+ • “State” key used in Win10 1809+
-System Resource Usage Monitor + 
 +==== System Resource Usage Monitor ==== 
 + 
 (SRUM) (SRUM)
 Description Description
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 applications run, user accounts responsible, network connections, and  applications run, user accounts responsible, network connections, and 
 bytes sent/received per application per hour. bytes sent/received per application per hour.
-Location +<code> 
 Win8+: C:\Windows\System32\SRU\SRUDB.dat Win8+: C:\Windows\System32\SRU\SRUDB.dat
-Interpretation+</code>
 • SRUDB.dat is an Extensible Storage Engine database  • SRUDB.dat is an Extensible Storage Engine database 
 • Three tables in SRUDB.dat are particularly important: • Three tables in SRUDB.dat are particularly important:
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  - {d10ca2fe-6fcf-4f6d-848e-b2e99266fa89} = Application Resource Usage  - {d10ca2fe-6fcf-4f6d-848e-b2e99266fa89} = Application Resource Usage
  - {DD6636C4-8929-4683-974E-22C046A43763} = Network Connectivity Usage  - {DD6636C4-8929-4683-974E-22C046A43763} = Network Connectivity Usage
-Prefetch + 
-Description+==== Prefetch ====
 Prefetch increases performance of a system by pre-loading code pages  Prefetch increases performance of a system by pre-loading code pages 
 of commonly used applications. It monitors all files and directories  of commonly used applications. It monitors all files and directories 
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 • Limited to 128 files on XP and Win7 • Limited to 128 files on XP and Win7
 • Up to 1024 files on Win8+ • Up to 1024 files on Win8+
-Location+<code>
 • C:\Windows\Prefetch • C:\Windows\Prefetch
 Naming format: (exename)-(hash).pf Naming format: (exename)-(hash).pf
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 EnablePrefetcher value  EnablePrefetcher value 
 (0 = disabled; 3 = application launch and boot enabled) (0 = disabled; 3 = application launch and boot enabled)
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Date/Time file by that name and path was first executed • Date/Time file by that name and path was first executed
  - Creation date of .pf file (-10 seconds)  - Creation date of .pf file (-10 seconds)
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 times (only one time available pre-Win8), total number of times  times (only one time available pre-Win8), total number of times 
 executed, and device and file handles used by the program executed, and device and file handles used by the program
-CapabilityAccessManager + 
-Description+==== CapabilityAccessManager ==== 
 Records application use of the microphone, camera, and other  Records application use of the microphone, camera, and other 
 application-specific settings. application-specific settings.
-Location+<code>
 • Win 10 1903+: SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\CapabilityAccessManager\ • Win 10 1903+: SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\CapabilityAccessManager\
 ConsentStore ConsentStore
 • Win 10 1903+: NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\CapabilityAccessManager\ • Win 10 1903+: NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\CapabilityAccessManager\
 ConsentStore ConsentStore
-Interpretation+</code>
 • LastUsedTimeStart and LastUsedTimeStop track the last session times • LastUsedTimeStart and LastUsedTimeStop track the last session times
 • The NonPackaged key tracks non-Microsoft applications • The NonPackaged key tracks non-Microsoft applications
-UserAssist + 
-Description+==== UserAssist ==== 
 UserAssist records metadata on GUI-based program executions. UserAssist records metadata on GUI-based program executions.
-Location +<code> 
 NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\UserAssist\{GUID}\Count NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\UserAssist\{GUID}\Count
-Interpretation+</code>
 • GUIDs identify type of execution (Win7+) • GUIDs identify type of execution (Win7+)
  - CEBFF5CD Executable File Execution  - CEBFF5CD Executable File Execution
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 ===== File and Folder Opening ===== ===== File and Folder Opening =====
  
-Open/Save MRU +==== Open/Save MRU ==== 
-Description+
 In the simplest terms, this key tracks files that have been opened or saved  In the simplest terms, this key tracks files that have been opened or saved 
 within a Windows shell dialog box. This happens to be a big data set,  within a Windows shell dialog box. This happens to be a big data set, 
 including Microsoft Office applications, web browsers, chat clients, and a  including Microsoft Office applications, web browsers, chat clients, and a 
 majority of commonly used applications. majority of commonly used applications.
-Location+<code>
 • XP: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\OpenSaveMRU • XP: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\OpenSaveMRU
 • Win7/8/10: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\ • Win7/8/10: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\
 OpenSavePIDlMRU OpenSavePIDlMRU
-Interpretation+</code>
 • The “*” key – This subkey tracks the most recent files of any extension  • The “*” key – This subkey tracks the most recent files of any extension 
 input in an OpenSave dialog input in an OpenSave dialog
 • .??? (Three letter extension) – This subkey stores file info from the  • .??? (Three letter extension) – This subkey stores file info from the 
 OpenSave dialog by specific extension OpenSave dialog by specific extension
-Recent Files + 
-Description+==== Recent Files ==== 
 Registry key tracking the last files and folders opened. Used to populate  Registry key tracking the last files and folders opened. Used to populate 
 data in places like the “Recent” menus present in some Start menus. data in places like the “Recent” menus present in some Start menus.
-Location +<code> 
 NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RecentDocs NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RecentDocs
-Interpretation+</code>
 • RecentDocs – Rollup key tracking the overall order of the last 150 files or  • RecentDocs – Rollup key tracking the overall order of the last 150 files or 
 folders opened. MRU list tracks the temporal order in which each file/ folders opened. MRU list tracks the temporal order in which each file/
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 time of the key, providing the time of opening for that folder. time of the key, providing the time of opening for that folder.
 MS Word Reading Locations MS Word Reading Locations
-Description+ 
 +==== Description ==== 
 Beginning with Word 2013, the last known position of the user within a  Beginning with Word 2013, the last known position of the user within a 
 Word document is recorded. Word document is recorded.
-Location+<code>
 NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\Word\Reading Locations NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\Word\Reading Locations
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Another source tracking recent documents opened • Another source tracking recent documents opened
 • The last closed time is also tracked along with the last position within the  • The last closed time is also tracked along with the last position within the 
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 Tracks applications in use by the user and the directory location for the  Tracks applications in use by the user and the directory location for the 
 last file accessed by the application. last file accessed by the application.
-Location+<code>
 • XP: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\LastVisitedMRU • XP: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\LastVisitedMRU
 • Win7+: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\ • Win7+: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\
 LastVisitedPidlMRU LastVisitedPidlMRU
-Interpretation+</code>
 We get two important pieces of information from this key: applications  We get two important pieces of information from this key: applications 
 executed by the user and the last place in the file system that those  executed by the user and the last place in the file system that those 
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 identified via this registry key.  identified via this registry key. 
 Shortcut (LNK) Files Shortcut (LNK) Files
-Description+ 
 +==== Description ==== 
 Shortcut files are automatically created by Windows, tracking files and  Shortcut files are automatically created by Windows, tracking files and 
 folders opened by a user. folders opened by a user.
-Location +<code> 
 • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Recent  • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Recent 
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\ • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\
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 Note these are primary locations of LNK files. They can also be found in  Note these are primary locations of LNK files. They can also be found in 
 other locations. other locations.
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Date/Time file of that name was first opened • Date/Time file of that name was first opened
  - Creation Date of Shortcut (LNK) File  - Creation Date of Shortcut (LNK) File
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  - Original Location  - Original Location
  - Name of System  - Name of System
-Office Recent Files + 
-Description+==== Office Recent Files ==== 
 MS Office programs track their own recent files list, to make it easier for  MS Office programs track their own recent files list, to make it easier for 
 users to access previously opened files. users to access previously opened files.
-Location+<code>
 • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\<AppName>\File MRU • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\<AppName>\File MRU
  - 16.0 = Office 2016/2019/M365   - 16.0 = Office 2016/2019/M365 
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 • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\UserMRU\ADAL_####\File MRU • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\UserMRU\ADAL_####\File MRU
  - Microsoft 365 (Azure Active Directory)  - Microsoft 365 (Azure Active Directory)
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Similar to the Recent Files registry key, this tracks the last files opened by  • Similar to the Recent Files registry key, this tracks the last files opened by 
 each MS Office application each MS Office application
 • Unlike the Recent Files registry key, full path information is recorded  • Unlike the Recent Files registry key, full path information is recorded 
 along with a last opened time for each entry along with a last opened time for each entry
-Shell Bags + 
-Description+==== Shell Bags ==== 
 Shell bags identifies which folders were accessed on the local machine, via  Shell bags identifies which folders were accessed on the local machine, via 
 the network, and on removable devices, per user. It also shows evidence of  the network, and on removable devices, per user. It also shows evidence of 
 previously existing folders still present after deletion/overwrite. previously existing folders still present after deletion/overwrite.
-Location +<code> 
 Primary Data: Primary Data:
 • USRCLASS.DAT\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags • USRCLASS.DAT\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags
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 • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\BagMRU • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\BagMRU
 • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Massive collection of data on folders accessed by each user • Massive collection of data on folders accessed by each user
 • Folder file system timestamps are archived in addition to first and last  • Folder file system timestamps are archived in addition to first and last 
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 • “Exotic” items recorded like mobile device info, control panel access, and  • “Exotic” items recorded like mobile device info, control panel access, and 
 Zip archive access Zip archive access
-Jump Lists + 
-Description+==== Jump Lists ==== 
 Windows Jump Lists allow user access to frequently or recently used items  Windows Jump Lists allow user access to frequently or recently used items 
 quickly via the task bar. First introduced in Windows 7, they can identify  quickly via the task bar. First introduced in Windows 7, they can identify 
 applications in use and a wealth of metadata about items accessed via  applications in use and a wealth of metadata about items accessed via 
 those applications. those applications.
-Location+<code>
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\AutomaticDestinations • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\AutomaticDestinations
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\CustomDestinations • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\CustomDestinations
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Each jump list file is named according to an application identifier (AppID).  • Each jump list file is named according to an application identifier (AppID). 
 List of Jump List IDs -> https://dfir.to/EZJumpList List of Jump List IDs -> https://dfir.to/EZJumpList
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  - Local Drive | Removable Media | Network Share Info  - Local Drive | Removable Media | Network Share Info
  - Entries kept in MRU order including a timestamp for each item  - Entries kept in MRU order including a timestamp for each item
-Office Trust Records + 
-Description+==== Office Trust Records ==== 
 Records trust relationships afforded to documents by a user when  Records trust relationships afforded to documents by a user when 
 presented with a security warning. This is stored so the user is only  presented with a security warning. This is stored so the user is only 
 required to grant permission the first time the document is opened. required to grant permission the first time the document is opened.
-Location+<code>
 NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\<AppName>\Security\Trusted Documents\TrustRecords NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Office\<Version>\<AppName>\Security\Trusted Documents\TrustRecords
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Can identify documents opened by the user and user interaction in  • Can identify documents opened by the user and user interaction in 
 trusting the file trusting the file
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 MS Office programs produce alerts for the user when they attempt actions  MS Office programs produce alerts for the user when they attempt actions 
 such as closing a file without saving it first. such as closing a file without saving it first.
-Location+<code>
 OAlerts.evtx OAlerts.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • All Office applications use Event ID 300 • All Office applications use Event ID 300
 • Events include the program name and dialog message, showing some  • Events include the program name and dialog message, showing some 
 user activity within the application user activity within the application
-Internet Explorer file:/// + 
-Description+==== Internet Explorer file:/// ==== 
 Internet Explorer History databases have long held information on local  Internet Explorer History databases have long held information on local 
 and remote file access (via network shares), giving us an excellent means  and remote file access (via network shares), giving us an excellent means 
 for determining files accessed on the system, per user. Information can be  for determining files accessed on the system, per user. Information can be 
 present even on Win11+ systems missing the Internet Explorer application.  present even on Win11+ systems missing the Internet Explorer application. 
-Location +<code> 
 Internet Explorer: Internet Explorer:
 IE6–7: %USERPROFILE%\LocalSettings\History\History.IE5 IE6–7: %USERPROFILE%\LocalSettings\History\History.IE5
 IE8–9: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\History\History.IE5 IE8–9: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\History\History.IE5
 IE10–11 & Win10+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\WebCache\WebCacheV*.dat IE10–11 & Win10+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\WebCache\WebCacheV*.dat
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Entries recorded as: file:///C:/directory/filename.ext • Entries recorded as: file:///C:/directory/filename.ext
 • Does not mean file was opened in a browser • Does not mean file was opened in a browser
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 ===== Deleted Items and File Existence ===== ===== Deleted Items and File Existence =====
  
-Thumbs.db +==== Thumbs.db ==== 
-Description+
 The hidden database file is created in directories where images  The hidden database file is created in directories where images 
 were viewed as thumbnails. It can catalog previous contents of a  were viewed as thumbnails. It can catalog previous contents of a 
 folder even upon file deletion. folder even upon file deletion.
-Location+<code>
 Each folder maintains a separate Thumbs.db file after being  Each folder maintains a separate Thumbs.db file after being 
 viewed in thumbnail view (OS version dependent) viewed in thumbnail view (OS version dependent)
-Interpretation+</code>
 Includes: Includes:
 • Thumbnail image of original picture • Thumbnail image of original picture
Line 379: Line 504:
 • Most relevant for XP systems, but Thumbs.db files can be  • Most relevant for XP systems, but Thumbs.db files can be 
 created on more modern OS versions in unusual circumstances  created on more modern OS versions in unusual circumstances 
-such as when folders are viewed via UNC paths.  +such as when folders are viewed via UNC paths. 
-Windows Search Database +  
-Description+==== Windows Search Database ==== 
 Windows Search indexes more than 900 file types, including  Windows Search indexes more than 900 file types, including 
 email and file metadata, allowing users to search based on  email and file metadata, allowing users to search based on 
 keywords.  keywords. 
-Location+<code>
 • Win XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\ Microsoft\Search\Data\ • Win XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\ Microsoft\Search\Data\
 Applications\Windows\Windows.edb Applications\Windows\Windows.edb
Line 391: Line 517:
 • Win7+: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Search\Data\Applications\Windows\GatherLogs\ • Win7+: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Search\Data\Applications\Windows\GatherLogs\
 SystemIndex SystemIndex
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Database in Extensible Storage Engine format • Database in Extensible Storage Engine format
 • Gather logs contain a candidate list for files to be indexed over  • Gather logs contain a candidate list for files to be indexed over 
Line 397: Line 523:
 • Extensive file metadata and even partial content can be present • Extensive file metadata and even partial content can be present
  
-Internet Explorer file:/// +==== Internet Explorer file:/// ==== 
-Description+
 Internet Explorer History databases have long held information on local and remote (via  Internet Explorer History databases have long held information on local and remote (via 
 network shares) file access, giving us an excellent means for determining files accessed on  network shares) file access, giving us an excellent means for determining files accessed on 
 the system, per user. Information can be present even on Win11+ systems missing the Internet  the system, per user. Information can be present even on Win11+ systems missing the Internet 
 Explorer application.  Explorer application. 
-Location +<code> 
 • IE6-7: %USERPROFILE%\LocalSettings\History\History.IE5 • IE6-7: %USERPROFILE%\LocalSettings\History\History.IE5
 • IE8-9: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\History\History.IE5 • IE8-9: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\History\History.IE5
 • IE10-11 and Win10+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\WebCache\WebCacheV*.dat • IE10-11 and Win10+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\WebCache\WebCacheV*.dat
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Entries are recorded as: file:///C:/<directory>/<filename>.<ext> • Entries are recorded as: file:///C:/<directory>/<filename>.<ext>
 • It does not mean the file was opened in a browser • It does not mean the file was opened in a browser
-Search – WordWheelQuery + 
-Description+==== Search – WordWheelQuery ==== 
 This maintains an ordered list of terms put into the File Explorer search dialog.  This maintains an ordered list of terms put into the File Explorer search dialog. 
-Location +<code> 
 Win7+: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\WordWheelQuery Win7+: NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\WordWheelQuery
-Interpretation+</code>
 Keywords are added in Unicode and listed in temporal order in an MRUlist Keywords are added in Unicode and listed in temporal order in an MRUlist
 User Typed Paths User Typed Paths
Line 421: Line 548:
 A user can type a path directly into the File Explorer path bar to locate a file instead of navigating  A user can type a path directly into the File Explorer path bar to locate a file instead of navigating 
 the folder structure. Folders accessed in this manner are recorded in the TypedPaths key.  the folder structure. Folders accessed in this manner are recorded in the TypedPaths key. 
-Location+<code>
 NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\TypedPaths NTUSER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\TypedPaths
-Interpretation+</code>
 • This indicates a user had knowledge of a particular file system location • This indicates a user had knowledge of a particular file system location
 • It can expose hidden and commonly accessed locations, including those present on external  • It can expose hidden and commonly accessed locations, including those present on external 
 drives or network shares drives or network shares
  
-Thumbcache +==== Thumbcache ==== 
-Description+
 Thumbnails of pictures, documents, and folders exist in a set of  Thumbnails of pictures, documents, and folders exist in a set of 
 databases called the thumbcache. It is maintained for each user  databases called the thumbcache. It is maintained for each user 
Line 435: Line 562:
 and extra large). It can catalog previous contents of a folder even  and extra large). It can catalog previous contents of a folder even 
 upon file deletion. (Available in Windows Vista+) upon file deletion. (Available in Windows Vista+)
-Location+<code>
 %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Database files are named similar to: Thumbcache_256.db • Database files are named similar to: Thumbcache_256.db
 • Each database file represents thumbnails stored as different sizes  • Each database file represents thumbnails stored as different sizes 
Line 444: Line 571:
 Cache ID can be cross-referenced within the Windows Search  Cache ID can be cross-referenced within the Windows Search 
 Database to identify filename, path, and additional file metadata  Database to identify filename, path, and additional file metadata 
-Recycle Bin + 
-Description+==== Recycle Bin ==== 
 The recycle bin collects items soft-deleted by each user and  The recycle bin collects items soft-deleted by each user and 
 associated metadata—only relevant for recycle-bin aware  associated metadata—only relevant for recycle-bin aware 
 applications.  applications. 
-Location+<code>
 Hidden System Folder Hidden System Folder
 • Win XP: C:\Recycler • Win XP: C:\Recycler
 • Win7+: C:\$Recycle.Bin • Win7+: C:\$Recycle.Bin
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Each user is assigned a SID sub-folder that can be mapped to a  • Each user is assigned a SID sub-folder that can be mapped to a 
 user via the Registry user via the Registry
Line 464: Line 592:
 ===== Browser Activity ===== ===== Browser Activity =====
  
-History and Download History  +==== History and Download History ==== 
-Description+ 
 History and Download History records websites visited by date and time. History and Download History records websites visited by date and time.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox  Firefox 
 • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\places.sqlite • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\places.sqlite
Line 476: Line 604:
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\History • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\History
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\History • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\History
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Web browser artifacts are stored for each local user account • Web browser artifacts are stored for each local user account
 • Most browsers also record number of times visited (frequency) • Most browsers also record number of times visited (frequency)
 • Look for multiple profiles in Chromium browsers, including “Default”, and  • Look for multiple profiles in Chromium browsers, including “Default”, and 
 “Profile1”, etc.  “Profile1”, etc. 
-Media History  + 
-Description+==== Media History ==== 
 + 
 Media History tracks media usage (audio and video played) on visited  Media History tracks media usage (audio and video played) on visited 
 websites (Chromium browsers). websites (Chromium browsers).
-Location +<code> 
 Chrome/Edge Chrome/Edge
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Media History • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Media History
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Media History • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Media History
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Three primary tables: playbackSession, origin, playback  • Three primary tables: playbackSession, origin, playback 
 • Includes URLs, last play time, watch time duration, and last video position • Includes URLs, last play time, watch time duration, and last video position
 • Not cleared when other history data is cleared • Not cleared when other history data is cleared
-HTML5 Web Storage + 
-Description+==== HTML5 Web Storage ==== 
 HTML5 Web Storage are considered to be “Super Cookies”. Each domain  HTML5 Web Storage are considered to be “Super Cookies”. Each domain 
 can store up to 10MB of text-based data on the local system. can store up to 10MB of text-based data on the local system.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox Firefox
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\webappstore.sqlite • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\webappstore.sqlite
Line 503: Line 633:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Local Storage • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Local Storage
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Local Storage • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Local Storage
-Interpretation+</code>
 Chrome uses a LevelDB database, Firefox uses SQLite, and IE/EdgeHTML  Chrome uses a LevelDB database, Firefox uses SQLite, and IE/EdgeHTML 
 store data within XML files store data within XML files
-HTML5 FileSystem + 
-Description+==== HTML5 FileSystem ==== 
 HTML5 FileSystem implements the HTML5 local storage FileSystem API. It is  HTML5 FileSystem implements the HTML5 local storage FileSystem API. It is 
 similar to Web Storage, but designed to store larger binary data. similar to Web Storage, but designed to store larger binary data.
-Location+<code>
 Chrome/Edge Chrome/Edge
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\File System • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\File System
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\File System • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\File System
-Interpretation+</code>
 • A LevelDB database in this folder stores visited URLs and assigned  • A LevelDB database in this folder stores visited URLs and assigned 
 subfolders to locate the data subfolders to locate the data
 • Files are stored temporarily (“t” subfolders) or in permanent (“p”  • Files are stored temporarily (“t” subfolders) or in permanent (“p” 
 subfolders) storage subfolders) storage
-Auto-Complete Data  + 
-Description+==== Auto-Complete Data ==== 
 + 
 Many databases store data that a user has typed into the browser. Many databases store data that a user has typed into the browser.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox Firefox
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\places.sqlite • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\places.sqlite
Line 543: Line 675:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\ Login Data • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\ Login Data
  - Stores inputted user credentials  - Stores inputted user credentials
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Includes typed-in data, as well as data types • Includes typed-in data, as well as data types
 • Connects typed data and knowledge to a user account • Connects typed data and knowledge to a user account
-Browser Preferences  + 
-Description+==== Browser Preferences ==== 
 + 
 Configuration data associated with the browser application, including  Configuration data associated with the browser application, including 
 privacy settings and synchronization preferences. privacy settings and synchronization preferences.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox Firefox
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\prefs.js • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\prefs.js
Line 556: Line 689:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Preferences • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Preferences
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Preferences • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Preferences
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Firefox prefs.js shows sync status, last sync time, and artifacts selected to sync • Firefox prefs.js shows sync status, last sync time, and artifacts selected to sync
 • Chrome uses JSON format • Chrome uses JSON format
Line 563: Line 696:
  - Contains synchronization status, last sync time and artifacts selected to sync  - Contains synchronization status, last sync time and artifacts selected to sync
 • Edge preferences include account_info, clear_data_on_exit, and sync settings • Edge preferences include account_info, clear_data_on_exit, and sync settings
-Cache + 
-Description+==== Cache ==== 
 The cache is where web page components can be stored locally to speed  The cache is where web page components can be stored locally to speed 
 up subsequent visits. up subsequent visits.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox Firefox
 • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Local Settings\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>. • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Local Settings\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.
Line 582: Line 716:
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Cache\ - data_# and  • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Cache\ - data_# and 
 f_###### f_######
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Gives the investigator a “snapshot in time” of what a user was looking  • Gives the investigator a “snapshot in time” of what a user was looking 
 at online at online
Line 590: Line 724:
 user account user account
 • Timestamps show when the site was first saved and last viewed • Timestamps show when the site was first saved and last viewed
-Bookmarks  + 
-Description+==== Bookmarks ==== 
 Bookmarks include default items, as well as those the user chose to save  Bookmarks include default items, as well as those the user chose to save 
 for future reference.  for future reference. 
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox 3+ Firefox 3+
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\places.sqlite • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\places.sqlite
Line 604: Line 739:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Bookmarks.bak • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Bookmarks.bak
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Bookmarks.msbak • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Bookmarks.msbak
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Provides the website of interest and the specific URL that was saved • Provides the website of interest and the specific URL that was saved
 • Firefox bookmarkbackups folder can contain multiple backup copies of  • Firefox bookmarkbackups folder can contain multiple backup copies of 
Line 611: Line 746:
 • Note: not all bookmarks are user-generated; it is possible to bookmark a  • Note: not all bookmarks are user-generated; it is possible to bookmark a 
 site and never visit it site and never visit it
-Stored Credentials  + 
-Description+==== Stored Credentials ==== 
 + 
 Browser-based credential storage typically uses Windows DPAPI  Browser-based credential storage typically uses Windows DPAPI 
 encryption. If the login account is a Microsoft cloud account in Windows  encryption. If the login account is a Microsoft cloud account in Windows 
 10 or 11, DPAPI uses a 44-character randomly generated password in lieu  10 or 11, DPAPI uses a 44-character randomly generated password in lieu 
 of the account password.  of the account password. 
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox Firefox
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\logins.json • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\logins.json
Line 623: Line 759:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Login Data • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Login Data
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Login Data • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Login Data
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Firefox stores the hostname and URL, creation time, last used time,  • Firefox stores the hostname and URL, creation time, last used time, 
 times used, and time of last password change in JSON format. times used, and time of last password change in JSON format.
Line 631: Line 767:
 encrypted. Actual credentials are easiest to retrieve on a live system  encrypted. Actual credentials are easiest to retrieve on a live system 
 with the user account logged in.  with the user account logged in. 
-Browser Downloads  + 
-Description+==== Browser Downloads ==== 
 + 
 Modern browsers include built-in download manager applications  Modern browsers include built-in download manager applications 
 capable of keeping a history of every file downloaded by the user. This  capable of keeping a history of every file downloaded by the user. This 
 browser artifact can provide excellent information about websites visited  browser artifact can provide excellent information about websites visited 
 and corresponding items downloaded. and corresponding items downloaded.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox 3-25 Firefox 3-25
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\ Firefox\Profiles\<random text>.default\ • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\ Firefox\Profiles\<random text>.default\
Line 648: Line 785:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\History • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\History
  - downloads and download_url_chains tables  - downloads and download_url_chains tables
-Interpretation+</code>
 Download metadata includes: Download metadata includes:
 • Filename, size, and type • Filename, size, and type
Line 655: Line 792:
 • File system save location • File system save location
 • State information including success and failure • State information including success and failure
-Extensions  + 
-Description+==== Extensions ==== 
 + 
 Browser functionality can be extended through the use of extensions, or  Browser functionality can be extended through the use of extensions, or 
 browser plugins.  browser plugins. 
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox 4-25 Firefox 4-25
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\extensions.sqlite • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\extensions.sqlite
Line 669: Line 807:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Extensions\<GUID>\<version> • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\<Profile>\Extensions\<GUID>\<version>
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Extensions\<GUID>\<version> • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Extensions\<GUID>\<version>
-Interpretation+</code>
 • The newer Firefox JSON format stores more information than in older  • The newer Firefox JSON format stores more information than in older 
 versions versions
Line 682: Line 820:
 permissions, and version. permissions, and version.
  - The preferences file can also include additional extension data   - The preferences file can also include additional extension data 
-Session Restore + 
-Description+==== Session Restore ==== 
 Automatic crash recovery features are built into the browser. Automatic crash recovery features are built into the browser.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox (older versions) Firefox (older versions)
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\ • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\
Line 702: Line 841:
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Sessions • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\<Profile>\Sessions
  - Restore files = Session_<timestamp>, Tabs_<timestamp>  - Restore files = Session_<timestamp>, Tabs_<timestamp>
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Historical websites viewed in each tab • Historical websites viewed in each tab
 • Referring websites • Referring websites
Line 708: Line 847:
 • HTML, JavaScript, XML, and form data from the page • HTML, JavaScript, XML, and form data from the page
 • Other artifacts such as transition type, browser window size and pinned tabs • Other artifacts such as transition type, browser window size and pinned tabs
-Cookies + 
-Description+==== Cookies ==== 
 Cookies provide insight into what websites have been visited and what  Cookies provide insight into what websites have been visited and what 
 activities might have taken place there. activities might have taken place there.
-Location +<code> 
 Firefox Firefox
 • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\cookies.sqlite • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\<randomtext>.default\cookies.sqlite
Line 724: Line 864:
 ===== Cloud Storage ===== ===== Cloud Storage =====
  
-OneDrive  +===== OneDrive ===== 
-Description+ 
 OneDrive is installed by default on Windows 8+ systems, although it must  OneDrive is installed by default on Windows 8+ systems, although it must 
 be enabled by a user authenticating to their Microsoft Cloud account  be enabled by a user authenticating to their Microsoft Cloud account 
 before use. before use.
-Location +<code> 
 Default local file storage: Default local file storage:
 • %USERPROFILE%\OneDrive (Personal) • %USERPROFILE%\OneDrive (Personal)
Line 741: Line 881:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneDrive\settings\<Personal | Business1> • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneDrive\settings\<Personal | Business1>
  - <UserCid>.dat  - <UserCid>.dat
-Interpretation+</code>
 • It is critical to check the registry to confirm the local file storage location • It is critical to check the registry to confirm the local file storage location
 • Metadata files only exist if OneDrive is enabled • Metadata files only exist if OneDrive is enabled
Line 750: Line 890:
 • OneDrive for Business Unified Audit Logs in Microsoft 365 provide 90  • OneDrive for Business Unified Audit Logs in Microsoft 365 provide 90 
 days of user activity logging days of user activity logging
-Google Drive for  + 
-Desktop  +===== Google Drive for Desktop ===== 
-Description+
 Google Drive for Desktop is the new name  Google Drive for Desktop is the new name 
 for the merged Google Backup and Sync  for the merged Google Backup and Sync 
Line 759: Line 899:
 which is only accessible to the user when  which is only accessible to the user when 
 they are logged in. they are logged in.
-Location +<code> 
 Local drive letter for the virtual volume and  Local drive letter for the virtual volume and 
 account ID: account ID:
Line 769: Line 909:
 • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\DriveFS\<account  • %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\DriveFS\<account 
 identifier>\metadata_sqlite_db identifier>\metadata_sqlite_db
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Assigned drive letter can help tie file and  • Assigned drive letter can help tie file and 
 folder access artifacts to Google Drive folder access artifacts to Google Drive
Line 776: Line 916:
 • metadata_sqlite_db database uses protobuf  • metadata_sqlite_db database uses protobuf 
 format for many important fields format for many important fields
-Box Drive  + 
-Description+===== Box Drive ===== 
 + 
 Box Drive uses a virtual filesystem,  Box Drive uses a virtual filesystem, 
 implemented as an NTFS reparse point.  implemented as an NTFS reparse point. 
 Excellent metadata logging is available. Excellent metadata logging is available.
-Location+<code>
 Default reparse point to virtual filesystem: Default reparse point to virtual filesystem:
 • %USERPROFILE%\Box  • %USERPROFILE%\Box 
Line 793: Line 934:
 metadata metadata
  - metrics.db – user account info  - metrics.db – user account info
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Metadata available for both local and  • Metadata available for both local and 
 cloud-only files, including SHA1 hashes cloud-only files, including SHA1 hashes
Line 803: Line 944:
 • Detailed usage logging available, but may  • Detailed usage logging available, but may 
 only go back a few weeks only go back a few weeks
-Dropbox  + 
-Description+===== Dropbox ===== 
 + 
 Dropbox can be a challenging application to investigate. Older  Dropbox can be a challenging application to investigate. Older 
 versions encrypt most metadata using Windows DPAPI, but  versions encrypt most metadata using Windows DPAPI, but 
 recent versions tend to have more information available. recent versions tend to have more information available.
-Location +<code> 
 Default local file storage: Default local file storage:
 • %USERPROFILE%\Dropbox  • %USERPROFILE%\Dropbox 
Line 821: Line 963:
  - v90-: filecache.dbx, config.dbx – encrypted with Windows DPAPI  - v90-: filecache.dbx, config.dbx – encrypted with Windows DPAPI
  - info.json – app configuration data  - info.json – app configuration data
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Metadata for local, cloud, and deleted files can all be  • Metadata for local, cloud, and deleted files can all be 
 identified identified
Line 833: Line 975:
 ===== Account Usage ===== ===== Account Usage =====
  
-Cloud Account Details  +===== Cloud Account Details ===== 
-Description+ 
 Microsoft Cloud Accounts store account information in the SAM hive, including  Microsoft Cloud Accounts store account information in the SAM hive, including 
 the email address associated with the account.  the email address associated with the account. 
-Location +<code> 
 SAM\Domains\Account\Users\<RID>\InternetUserName SAM\Domains\Account\Users\<RID>\InternetUserName
-Interpretation+</code>
 • InternetUserName value contains the email address tied to the account • InternetUserName value contains the email address tied to the account
 • The presence of this value identifies the account as a Microsoft cloud account • The presence of this value identifies the account as a Microsoft cloud account
Line 846: Line 988:
 The SAM registry hive maintains a list of local accounts and associated  The SAM registry hive maintains a list of local accounts and associated 
 configuration information. configuration information.
-Location +<code> 
 SAM\Domains\Account\Users SAM\Domains\Account\Users
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Accounts listed by their relative identifiers (RID) • Accounts listed by their relative identifiers (RID)
 • Last login time, last password change, login counts, group membership,  • Last login time, last password change, login counts, group membership, 
 account creation time and more can be determined account creation time and more can be determined
-Service Events  + 
-Description+===== Service Events ===== 
 + 
 Analyze logs for suspicious Windows service creation, persistence, and services  Analyze logs for suspicious Windows service creation, persistence, and services 
 started or stopped around the time of a suspected compromise. Service events  started or stopped around the time of a suspected compromise. Service events 
 also record account information. also record account information.
-Location +<code> 
 • Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\System.evtx • Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\System.evtx
 • Win10+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx • Win10+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Most relevant events are present in the System Log: • Most relevant events are present in the System Log:
  - 7034 – Service crashed unexpectedly  - 7034 – Service crashed unexpectedly
Line 872: Line 1015:
 • Services started on boot illustrate persistence (desirable in malware) • Services started on boot illustrate persistence (desirable in malware)
 • Services can crash due to attacks like process injection • Services can crash due to attacks like process injection
-User Accounts  + 
-Description+===== User Accounts ===== 
 + 
 Identify both local and domain accounts with interactive logins to the  Identify both local and domain accounts with interactive logins to the 
 system.  system. 
-Location +<code> 
 SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Useful for mapping SID to user account name • Useful for mapping SID to user account name
 • Subkeys are named for user SIDs and contain a ProfileImagePath  • Subkeys are named for user SIDs and contain a ProfileImagePath 
 indicating the user’s profile path indicating the user’s profile path
 Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)  Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) 
-Usage + 
-Description+===== Usage ===== 
 Track RDP logons and session reconnections to target machines. Track RDP logons and session reconnections to target machines.
-Location Security Log +<code> Security Log 
 Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Multiple events can be used to track accounts used for RDP • Multiple events can be used to track accounts used for RDP
  - Event ID 4624 – Logon Type 10   - Event ID 4624 – Logon Type 10 
Line 897: Line 1042:
 • Multiple dedicated RDP/Terminal Services logs are also available on  • Multiple dedicated RDP/Terminal Services logs are also available on 
 modern Windows versions modern Windows versions
-Successful/Failed Logons  + 
-Description+===== Successful/Failed Logons ===== 
 Profile account creation, attempted logons, and account usage. Profile account creation, attempted logons, and account usage.
-Location +<code> 
 Win7+: % SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx Win7+: % SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx
-Interpretation+</code> 
 • Win7+: • Win7+:
  - 4624 – Successful Logon  - 4624 – Successful Logon
Line 910: Line 1057:
  - 4672 – Account logon with superuser rights (Administrator)  - 4672 – Account logon with superuser rights (Administrator)
  - 4720 – An account was created  - 4720 – An account was created
-Authentication Events  + 
-Description+===== Authentication Events ===== 
 + 
 Authentication Events identify where authentication of credentials occurred.  Authentication Events identify where authentication of credentials occurred. 
 They can be particularly useful when tracking local vs. domain account  They can be particularly useful when tracking local vs. domain account 
 usage. usage.
-Location +<code> 
 Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Recorded on system that authenticated credentials • Recorded on system that authenticated credentials
  - Local Account/Workgroup = on workstation  - Local Account/Workgroup = on workstation
Line 927: Line 1075:
  - 4769: Service Ticket requested (access to server resource)  - 4769: Service Ticket requested (access to server resource)
  - 4771: Pre-authentication failed (failed logon)  - 4771: Pre-authentication failed (failed logon)
-Logon Event Types  + 
-Description+===== Logon Event Types ===== 
 Logon Events provide very specific information regarding the nature of  Logon Events provide very specific information regarding the nature of 
 account authorizations on a system. In addition to date, time, username,  account authorizations on a system. In addition to date, time, username, 
 hostname, and success/failure status of a logon, Logon Events also enable  hostname, and success/failure status of a logon, Logon Events also enable 
 us to determine by exactly what means a logon was attempted.  us to determine by exactly what means a logon was attempted. 
-Location +<code> 
 Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 Event ID 4624 Event ID 4624
 Logon Type Explanation Logon Type Explanation
Line 953: Line 1102:
 ===== Network Activity and Physical Location ===== ===== Network Activity and Physical Location =====
  
-Network History +===== Network History ===== 
-Description+
 Identify networks to which the computer  Identify networks to which the computer 
 connected. Available information includes domain  connected. Available information includes domain 
 name/intranet name, SSID, first and last time  name/intranet name, SSID, first and last time 
 connected, and Gateway MAC Address. connected, and Gateway MAC Address.
-Location +<code> 
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters\Interfaces • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters\Interfaces
 • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkCards • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkCards
Line 970: Line 1119:
 • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\ • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\
 Profiles Profiles
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Multiple registry keys can be correlated to  • Multiple registry keys can be correlated to 
 provide a rich picture of network activity.  provide a rich picture of network activity. 
Line 985: Line 1134:
  - 71 (0x47) = Wireless  - 71 (0x47) = Wireless
  - 243 (0xF3) = Mobile Broadband  - 243 (0xF3) = Mobile Broadband
-Browser URL  + 
-Parameters +===== Browser URL Parameters =====
-Description+
 Information leaked within browser history URL  Information leaked within browser history URL 
 parameters can provide clues to captive portal  parameters can provide clues to captive portal 
Line 997: Line 1145:
 8&fb=1&sa=X&geocode=KWv-o9E_nLJBBdixYmN41uvu&daddr=Hyat 8&fb=1&sa=X&geocode=KWv-o9E_nLJBBdixYmN41uvu&daddr=Hyat
 t+Place+Portland-Old+Port,+433+Fore+St,+Portland,+ME+04101 t+Place+Portland-Old+Port,+433+Fore+St,+Portland,+ME+04101
-Location  +<code>  
-Multiple – see the history information within the  +Multiple – see the history information within the Browser Usage section 
-Browser Usage section + 
-Timezone +===== Timezone =====
-Description+
 Registry data identifies the current system  Registry data identifies the current system 
 time zone. Event logs may be able to provide  time zone. Event logs may be able to provide 
 additional historical information. additional historical information.
-Location +<code> 
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\TimeZoneInformation • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\TimeZoneInformation
 • %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\System.evtx • %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\System.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Some log files and artifact timestamps can only  • Some log files and artifact timestamps can only 
 be correctly interpreted by knowing the system  be correctly interpreted by knowing the system 
Line 1014: Line 1161:
 • Event ID 6013 in the System.evtx log can provide  • Event ID 6013 in the System.evtx log can provide 
 information on historical time zone settings information on historical time zone settings
-WLAN Event Log + 
-Description+===== WLAN Event Log ===== 
 Determine historical view of wireless networks associations. Determine historical view of wireless networks associations.
-Location +<code> 
 Win7+: Microsoft-Windows-WLAN-AutoConfig Operational.evtx Win7+: Microsoft-Windows-WLAN-AutoConfig Operational.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Provides historical record of wireless network connections • Provides historical record of wireless network connections
 • SSID can be used to correlate and retrieve additional network  • SSID can be used to correlate and retrieve additional network 
Line 1029: Line 1177:
  - 8003 – Disconnect from wireless network  - 8003 – Disconnect from wireless network
  - 6100 – Network diagnostics (System log)  - 6100 – Network diagnostics (System log)
-Network Interfaces + 
-Description+===== Network Interfaces =====
 List available network interfaces and their last known configurations. List available network interfaces and their last known configurations.
-Location +<code> 
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters\Interfaces • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters\Interfaces
 • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkCards • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkCards
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Interfaces key includes the last known IP address, DHCP and domain  • Interfaces key includes the last known IP address, DHCP and domain 
 information for both physical and virtual network adapters. Subkeys  information for both physical and virtual network adapters. Subkeys 
Line 1042: Line 1190:
 • The two keys are mapped via the interface GUID value • The two keys are mapped via the interface GUID value
 • Unlikely to be a complete view of every connected network • Unlikely to be a complete view of every connected network
-System Resource  +===== System Resource Usage Monitor (SRUM) ===== 
-Usage Monitor (SRUM) + 
-Description +SRUM records 30 to 60 days of historical system performance including applications run, user accounts responsible, network connections, and bytes sent/received per application per hour. 
-SRUM records 30 to 60 days of historical  +<code> 
-system performance including applications  +
-run, user accounts responsible, network  +
-connections, and bytes sent/received per  +
-application per hour. +
-Location +
 Win8+: C:\Windows\System32\SRU\SRUDB.dat  Win8+: C:\Windows\System32\SRU\SRUDB.dat 
-Interpretation+</code>
 • SRUDB.dat is an Extensible Storage Engine  • SRUDB.dat is an Extensible Storage Engine 
 database  database 
Line 1068: Line 1211:
 ===== External Device/USB Usage ===== ===== External Device/USB Usage =====
  
-USB Device Identification +==== USB Device Identification ==== 
-Description+
 Track USB devices plugged into a machine. Track USB devices plugged into a machine.
-Location +<code> 
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USBSTOR • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USBSTOR
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USB • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USB
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\SCSI  • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\SCSI 
 • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\HID • SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\HID
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Identify vendor, product, and version of a USB device plugged into a  • Identify vendor, product, and version of a USB device plugged into a 
 machine machine
Line 1092: Line 1235:
 SYSTEM\Setup\Upgrade\PnP\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceMigration SYSTEM\Setup\Upgrade\PnP\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceMigration
 • HID key tracks peripherals connected to the system  • HID key tracks peripherals connected to the system 
-Event Logs + 
-Description+==== Event Logs ==== 
 Removable device activity can be audited in multiple Windows event logs. Removable device activity can be audited in multiple Windows event logs.
-Location+<code>
 Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\System.evtx Win7+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\System.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Event IDs 20001, 20003 – Plug and Play driver install attempted • Event IDs 20001, 20003 – Plug and Play driver install attempted
-Location+<code>
 %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Security.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • 4663 – Attempt to access removable storage object (Security log) • 4663 – Attempt to access removable storage object (Security log)
 • 4656 – Failure to access removable storage object (Security log) • 4656 – Failure to access removable storage object (Security log)
 • 6416 – A new external device was recognized on system (Security log) • 6416 – A new external device was recognized on system (Security log)
 • Security log events are dependent on system audit settings • Security log events are dependent on system audit settings
-Location Connection Times +<code> Connection Times 
 • Win10+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Microsoft-Windows-Partition/Diagnostic.evtx • Win10+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Microsoft-Windows-Partition/Diagnostic.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Event ID 1006 is recorded for each device connect/disconnect • Event ID 1006 is recorded for each device connect/disconnect
-Drive Letter and Volume Name + 
-Description+==== Drive Letter and Volume Name ==== 
 Discover the last drive letter and volume name of a device when it was  Discover the last drive letter and volume name of a device when it was 
 plugged into the system. plugged into the system.
-Location +<code> 
 XP:  XP: 
 • Find ParentIdPrefix – SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USBSTOR • Find ParentIdPrefix – SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USBSTOR
Line 1123: Line 1268:
 serial number match in value data serial number match in value data
 • Win7+: SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Search\VolumeInfoCache • Win7+: SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Search\VolumeInfoCache
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Only the last USB device mapped to a specific drive letter can be  • Only the last USB device mapped to a specific drive letter can be 
 identified. Historical records not available. identified. Historical records not available.
-User Information + 
-Description+==== User Information ==== 
 Identify user accounts tied to a unique USB Device.  Identify user accounts tied to a unique USB Device. 
-Location +<code> 
 • Document device Volume GUID from SYSTEM\MountedDevices  • Document device Volume GUID from SYSTEM\MountedDevices 
 • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MountPoints2 • NTUSER.DAT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MountPoints2
-Interpretation+</code>
 If a Volume GUID match is made within MountPoints2, we can conclude the  If a Volume GUID match is made within MountPoints2, we can conclude the 
 associated user profile was logged in while that device was present. associated user profile was logged in while that device was present.
-Shortcut (LNK) Files + 
-Description+==== Shortcut (LNK) Files ==== 
 Shortcut files are automatically created by Windows, tracking files and  Shortcut files are automatically created by Windows, tracking files and 
 folders opened by a user. folders opened by a user.
-Location +<code> 
 • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Recent  • XP: %USERPROFILE%\Recent 
 • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\ • Win7+: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\
Line 1145: Line 1292:
 Note these are primary locations of LNK files. They can also be found in  Note these are primary locations of LNK files. They can also be found in 
 other locations. other locations.
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Date/Time file of that name was first opened • Date/Time file of that name was first opened
  - Creation Date of Shortcut (LNK) File  - Creation Date of Shortcut (LNK) File
Line 1156: Line 1303:
  - Original Location  - Original Location
  - Name of System  - Name of System
-Connection Timestamps + 
-Description+==== Connection Timestamps ====
 Connection timestamps determine temporal usage of specific USB devices  Connection timestamps determine temporal usage of specific USB devices 
 connected to a Windows Machine.  connected to a Windows Machine. 
-Location First Time+<code> First Time
 Plug and Play Log Files Plug and Play Log Files
 • XP: C:\Windows\setupapi.log • XP: C:\Windows\setupapi.log
 • Win7+: C:\Windows\inf\setupapi.dev.log • Win7+: C:\Windows\inf\setupapi.dev.log
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Search for Device Serial Number • Search for Device Serial Number
 • Log File times are set to local time zone • Log File times are set to local time zone
-Location First, Last, and Removal Times +<code> First, Last, and Removal Times 
 • Win7+: SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USBSTOR\Disk&Ven_&Prod_\USBSerial#\Properties\ • Win7+: SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USBSTOR\Disk&Ven_&Prod_\USBSerial#\Properties\
 {83da6326-97a6-4088-9453-a19231573b29}\#### {83da6326-97a6-4088-9453-a19231573b29}\####
Line 1175: Line 1322:
  - 0066 = Last Connected (Win8+)  - 0066 = Last Connected (Win8+)
  - 0067 = Last Removal (Win8+)  - 0067 = Last Removal (Win8+)
-Interpretation+</code>
 Timestamps are stored in Windows 64-bit FILETIME format Timestamps are stored in Windows 64-bit FILETIME format
-Location Connection Times +<code> Connection Times 
 • Win10+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Microsoft-Windows-Partition/Diagnostic.evtx • Win10+: %SYSTEM ROOT%\System32\winevt\logs\Microsoft-Windows-Partition/Diagnostic.evtx
-Interpretation+</code>
 • Event ID 1006 is recorded for each device connect/disconnect • Event ID 1006 is recorded for each device connect/disconnect
 • Log cleared during major OS updates • Log cleared during major OS updates
-Volume Serial Number (VSN) + 
-Description+==== Volume Serial Number (VSN) ==== 
 Discover the VSN assigned to the file system partition on the USB. Discover the VSN assigned to the file system partition on the USB.
 (NOTE: This is not the USB Unique Serial Number, which is hardcoded into  (NOTE: This is not the USB Unique Serial Number, which is hardcoded into 
 the device firmware, nor the serial number on any external labels attached  the device firmware, nor the serial number on any external labels attached 
 to the device.) to the device.)
-Location +<code> 
 • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\EMDMgmt • SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\EMDMgmt
  - Find a key match using Volume Name and USB Unique Serial Number:  - Find a key match using Volume Name and USB Unique Serial Number:
Line 1199: Line 1347:
 within each VBR within each VBR
  - Log cleared during major OS updates  - Log cleared during major OS updates
-Interpretation+</code>
 The VSN and device Volume Name can help correlate devices to specific  The VSN and device Volume Name can help correlate devices to specific 
 files via shell items present in LNK files and registry locations. files via shell items present in LNK files and registry locations.