What is generally the first step in the analysis of deleted files?

The analysis of deleted files typically begins with file recovery. This step is crucial because it involves attempting to retrieve files that have been intentionally or accidentally deleted from a storage medium. The techniques and tools used in this phase aim to restore the files to a state where they can be examined for evidence or relevant information.

In many cases, when files are deleted, the data itself may still exist on the disk until it is overwritten. Therefore, focusing on file recovery allows forensic analysts to recover this data and analyze its contents directly. Once the files are recovered, analysts can then apply further techniques, such as log review and data sanitization, to enhance their understanding of the data and its significance.

Other options, while related to forensic investigations, do not pertain to the initial actions taken specifically for deleted files. For example, data sanitization generally applies to preparing devices for secure disposal rather than recovering files, log review tends to occur after file recovery to contextualize the data, and network analysis focuses on data traffic rather than data recovery from storage media. Thus, the correct focus at the outset of examining deleted files is, indeed, on recovery.