When examining deleted files, what can timeline analysis provide?

Timeline analysis is a powerful technique in forensic investigations that focuses on the chronological order of events. When examining deleted files, timeline analysis allows forensic examiners to piece together the sequence of actions that occurred on a device, including when files were created, modified, accessed, or deleted. This chronological view can provide critical insights into user behavior and system activity, helping investigators understand the context in which files were deleted.

By establishing a timeline, investigators can correlate events such as file deletions with other system activities or actions taken by the user, which can also assist in determining intent or uncovering patterns that may aid in a case. This ability to visualize the timeline of events makes it a vital part of digital forensics.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of data analysis. For instance, a visible file structure pertains to the organization of files and directories rather than the sequence of events. A list of installed applications is relevant for understanding what software is present on the system but doesn't provide a historical view of file interactions. An overview of system settings may help configure analysis tools or understand the environment but lacks the specific chronological context provided by timeline analysis. Hence, the correct answer highlights the unique strength of timeline analysis in reconstructing events surrounding deleted files.