What does the term 'live forensics' refer to?

Live forensics refers specifically to the examination of a computer while it is still powered on and operational. This approach allows forensic investigators to collect volatile data, such as information stored in RAM, active network connections, and running processes, which can provide critical insights that would be lost if the device were powered off. By conducting a live forensic analysis, investigators can capture evidence that may change or be lost when the system is shut down—such as logs of user activity or the current state of running applications.

This method is particularly useful in cases involving malware or when the time-sensitive nature of certain data requires immediate analysis. Accessing a system while it is still running enables the gathering of more comprehensive evidence, making it a vital technique in digital forensics investigations.