Computer forensics, sometimes referred to as cyber forensics, uses data storage to locate digital evidence that might be utilized in legal processes. Digital forensics experts use a wide range of forensic software, tools, and skills that make them experts in the field. Computer forensics certifications allow forensics enthusiasts and professionals to get the best jobs in the field.
Continue reading this guide for detailed information about the best certifications for digital forensics, the highest paying computer forensics certifications careers available, and the job outlook of this in-demand field.
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What Is a Professional Certification?
A professional certification is certified proof that a person has the necessary skills or knowledge to execute particular duties in the field in which they have been taught. This is demonstrated by the certificate they receive after passing a certification exam organized by an authorized agency.
What’s the Difference Between a Certification and a Certificate?
The difference between a certification and a certificate is the type of qualification earned. A certificate signifies accomplishment in specialized education and is completed at a university or college. A certificate teaches students foundational skills in their field and allows them to transfer credits toward associate and bachelor’s degrees.
Certification is required to prove your knowledge and specialization within a particular field. Depending on the job you apply for, professional certification may be required. A certificate program, however, does not necessarily lead to professional qualification. The courses in a certificate program may prepare you to acquire a professional field-specific certification, but receiving a certificate is not the same as being certified.
Why Is Certification in Computer Forensics Important?
A certification in computer forensics is important because it allows you to comprehend the importance of computer forensics in the corporate sector and acquire the necessary forensics credentials and skills through hands-on forensic training, soft skills, and collaborative learning.
You will be able to use specialized skills gained through these digital forensics certifications in various real-world settings, which will boost your forensic skills and tools for detecting and responding to cyber crime beyond the certification phase.
Best Computer Forensics Certifications by Salary
| Certification | Provider | Average Salary | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CyberSecurity Forensics Analyst | CyberSecurity Institute | $111,406 | $750 |
| Certified Computer Examiner | The International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners | $107,579 | $485 |
| GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence | GIAC and SANS | $105,204 | $949 |
| Certified Forensic Computer Examiner | International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) | $96,785 | $750 |
| Certified Digital Forensics Examiner | National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies | $96,785 | $3,000 |
| GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner |
GIAC and SANS | $93,000 | $949 for exam only |
| EnCase Certified Examiner | OpenText | $89,000 | $500 |
| GIAC Advanced Smartphone Forensics | GIAC and SANS | $85,000 | $949 for exam only |
| AccessData Certified Examiner | AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE) | $76,000 | $250 |
| Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator | EC-Council | $75,212 | $650 |
Best Computer Forensics Certifications to Further Your Career
The CyberSecurity Institute's CyberSecurity Forensic Analyst (CSFA) certification confirms an analyst's ability to perform a complete forensic analysis of a computer system and other digital devices, appropriately interpret the data, and effectively convey the conclusions.
CyberSecurity Forensic Analyst Overview
- Average Salary: $111,406
- Cost: $750
- Requirements: Two years of forensic analysis experience on Windows OS and basic experience in creating forensics analysis reports
- Valid For: Two years
- Exam Length: Three days of practical and written examination
- Best Suited For: Security professionals
Potential Careers With CyberSecurity Forensic Analyst
The Certified Computer Examiner certification proves complete proficiency in computer forensics. The vendor-neutral certification is provided by the International Society for Computer Examiners, an organization that aims to establish and uphold high standards for computer examiners worldwide.
Certified Computer Examiner Overview
- Average Salary: $107,579
- Cost: $485
- Requirements: Must complete an authorized CCE bootcamp, have a minimum of 18 months of professional experience in forensics examination, or provide verifiable self-study documentation
- Valid For: Two years
- Exam Length: 45 minutes, 75 questions
- Best Suited For: All digital forensic professionals
Potential Careers With Certified Computer Examiner
The GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence certification is designed for professionals who want to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to identify, analyze, and respond to cyber threats. The certification covers a variety of topics, including cyber threat intelligence collection, threat actor profiling, and incident response.
GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence Overview
- Average Salary: $105,204
- Cost: $949
- Requirements: Relevant work experience in the field, SANS training (optional)
- Valid For: Four years
- Exam Length: Two hours, 75 questions
- Best Suited For: Information security professionals
Potential Careers With GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner
Certified Forensics Computer Examiner trains security specialists in electronic discovery and advanced investigation techniques. It is advised that anyone who will be working with digital evidence throughout an investigation should undergo this certification program.
Certified Forensics Computer Examiner Overview
- Average Salary: $96,785
- Cost: $750
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 44 days
- Best Suited For: Professionals that will be working with digital evidence throughout an investigation
Potential Careers With Certified Forensics Computer Examiner
This program trains cyber crime and fraud investigators on how to make use of digital resources to carry out advanced digital investigations. Organizations, individuals, law enforcement agencies, and government investigative agencies that work with digital evidence in litigation, proof of guilt, or remedial action would benefit from this CDFE training.
Certified Digital Forensics Examiner Overview
- Average Salary: $96,785
- Cost: $3,000
- Requirements: One year of computer experience
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: Two hours
- Best Suited For: Cyber crime and fraud investigators
Potential Careers With Certified Digital Forensics Examiner
The Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) certifies a practitioner's expertise in computer forensic analysis with the Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE) designation. It shows that candidates have the core security skills required to conduct routine incident investigations, such as ediscovery, forensic analysis and reporting, evidence gathering, and browser forensics.
GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner Overview
- Average Salary: $93,000
- Cost: $949
- Requirements: SANS training (optional)
- Valid For: Four years
- Exam Length: Three hours, 115 questions
- Best Suited For: Anyone who needs in-depth knowledge of Windows-based forensics and software
Potential Careers With GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner
This certification is designed to train both public and private sector professionals on how to use OpenText EnCase Forensic organizations. Professionals who earn the EnCase certification will have mastered computer investigative methods as well as the usage of EnCase software during sophisticated computer exams.
EnCase Certified Examiner Overview
- Average Salary: $89,000
- Cost: $500
- Requirements: 64 hours of authorized computer forensics training or 12 months of work experience in computer forensics
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: Two hours
- Best Suited For: Public and private sector professionals
Potential Careers With EnCase Certified Examiner
Professionals with a GASF accreditation can demonstrate their ability to conduct forensic examinations on mobile phones and tablets. Candidates must be familiar with the fundamentals of mobile forensics, device file system analysis, mobile application behavior, event artifact analysis, and the identification and analysis of mobile device malware.
GIAC Advanced Smartphone Forensics Overview
- Average Salary: $85,000
- Cost: $949
- Requirements: Practical work experience and college-level courses, SANS training (optional)
- Valid For: Four years
- Exam Length: Two hours, 75 questions
- Best Suited For: Experienced digital forensic examiners, information security professionals, and IT auditors
Potential Careers With GIAC Advanced Smartphone Forensics
The AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE) badge verifies a user's understanding of the Forensic Toolkit from AccessData (FTK). Rather than forensic investigation processes, the exam is designed to measure a user's skill with the instrument, and the training includes six hours of laboratory time.
AccessData Certified Examiner Overview
- Average Salary: $76,000
- Cost: $250
- Requirements: FTK Bootcamp, Forensic Toolkit 101, or general basic experience with the software
- Valid For: Two years
- Exam Length: Three hours, 25 questions
- Best Suited For: AccessData's Forensic Toolkit professionals
Potential Careers With AccessData Certified Examiner
The Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator certification validates your knowledge and investigative skills, such as detecting hacking attacks, gathering evidence to report the crime and prosecute the cyber criminal, and conducting an analysis to prevent future attacks.
Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator Overview
- Average Salary: $75,212
- Cost: $650
- Requirements: Two years of work experience in information security and a $100 non-refundable application fee
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: Four hours, 150 multiple-choice questions
- Best Suited For: Defense and security personnel, IT managers, and digital forensics service providers
Potential Careers With Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator
How to Choose the Best Computer Forensics Certification for Your Career
When choosing the best computer forensics certification for your career goals, there are several factors to consider. The most important factors include cost, recognition, renewal, test requirements, and program prerequisites. The best digital forensics certifications will demonstrate your skills and investigative techniques beyond your practical exam results.
Cost
Cost is an important part of choosing a certification provider. Certain certifications have separate costs for renewal, training, and testing. Some certification organizations may offer forms of reimbursement for specific aspects of the training, so it’s best to research and compare the overall costs of each provider to determine which is best for you.
Recognition
Some computer forensics certifications may be preferred by industry employers above others. Additionally, specific credentials may be invalid in certain states or countries. Therefore, researching the national recognition and policies of the agency is crucial in determining the best certification to pursue.
Renewal
Renewal is an important factor because certain certifications may need to be renewed every few years. Furthermore, some programs will require candidates to continually learn about computer forensics in order to keep up with developments in the field. Therefore, the frequency of the certification renewal should be kept in mind.
Which Computer Forensics Certifications Pay the Most?
The computer forensic certifications that pay the most according to PayScale include GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner, EnCase Certified Examiner, GIAC Advanced Smartphone Forensics, and AccessData Certified Examiner.
Highest-Paying Computer Forensics Certifications
- GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner: $93,000
- EnCase Certified Examiner: $89,000
- GIAC Advanced Smartphone Forensics $85,000
- AccessData Certified Examiner: $76,000
Which Computer Forensics Certifications Are the Best for Beginners?
The best computer forensics certifications for beginners are GIAC Advanced Smartphone Forensics, GIAC Battlefield Forensics and Acquisition (GBFA), and Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator. These computer forensics certifications are great for beginners because of their less rigorous requirements and relatively low costs.
Best College Certificate Programs
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How to Prepare for Your Computer Forensics Certification Exam
To pass a computer forensics certification exam, you’ll need to acquire relevant knowledge through core courses that will help you pass necessary certification testing and the peer review phase. In the following sections, we’ll explore the best resources available for computer forensics exam prep.
Best Courses to Prepare for Computer Forensics Certification Exams
Although there are numerous computer forensics prep courses and training programs online, only a few can effectively prepare you for the certification examination. In this section, we’ll discuss where to find the best online cyber security and forensics courses, including details about cost, duration, and the type of certification.
- Cost: $500
- Duration: 50 hours self-paced
- Best Suited For: GSEC and GISF certifications
The StationX Cyber Security course is a comprehensive online program consisting of four different courses that use video lectures, articles, practical exercises, and other resources. It is designed for those who are looking to start a career in digital forensics or who would like to become an expert in cyber security. The program fee is $500 but features numerous discounts.
- Cost: Free
- Duration: Eight weeks
- Best Suited For: Certified Forensic Computer Examiner
This Rochester Institute of Technology course is an online class that equips students with investigative skills as well as practice in the application of critical forensic tools. It is designed for anyone with an interest in computer forensics and is completely free to attend.
- Cost: $40 per month for membership; free for limited access to course content
- Duration: 17 hours 41 minutes
- Best Suited For: EnCase Certified Examiner, Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator
The Computer Hacking and Forensics course provided by Cybrary consists of various on-demand videos and virtual labs to help students cover necessary skills in the field and prepare for the EC-Council’s certification exam. It is designed for anyone working in the IT industry and involved in information system security, chain of custody tracking, and incident response.
- Cost: $3,795 or $3,595 for military, government, and law enforcement personnel
- Duration: One year
- Best Suited For: Certified Computer Examiner
The International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners offers a bootcamp to help students prepare for and pass the certification exam. It is a self-guided online program with an instructor assigned to each student to provide support through emails and review any work submitted. The course is targeted toward beginners and IT personnel who wish to broaden their knowledge.
- Cost: $7,640
- Duration: Six days (in person) or a self-paced online option
- Best Suited For: GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE) Certification
The Windows Forensic Analysis course gives an in-depth analysis of Windows operating systems as well as how to identify artifacts and evidence. It teaches students how to apply digital forensic techniques to various case types and situations.
The program is designed mainly for incident response team members, information security professionals, media exploitation analysts, and anyone interested in having advanced knowledge of Windows-based forensics.
Other Resources to Prepare for Your Computer Forensics Certification Exams
Apart from taking online courses, there are numerous additional resources you can utilize to aid your computer forensics exam prep. Below you’ll find some of the best additional resources along with their costs and type of learning format.
Computer Forensics for Dummies
This book, written by Reynaldo Anzaldua and Carol Pollard, is designed for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of computer forensics. It teaches the basics of computer forensics, from digging out electronic evidence to solving any case.
Computer Forensics for Dummies Overview
- Type of Resource: Book
- Cost: $20
- Ideal For: Anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of computer forensics
Forensic Focus
ForensicFocus.com is a free website that hosts digital forensics discussions and challenges to help beginners and practitioners improve their skills in a relaxed, collaborative setting. The website also provides job links, interview information, and opportunities to help professionals and beginners.
Forensic Focus Overview
- Type of Resource: Website
- Cost: Free
- Ideal For: Beginners and professionals of computer forensics looking to improve their skills and network in the field
Incident Response and Computer Forensics
This book by Jason T. Luttgens covers the entire process of incident response, including how to prepare, collect and analyze data as well as how to implement the knowledge of computer forensics in incident response. The book is helpful because it reveals real-life case studies and how to strategically handle advanced attacks today.
Incident Response and Computer Forensics Overview
- Type of Resource: Book
- Cost: $42
- Ideal For: People who want to learn about incident response through a computer forensics lens
13Cubed
The 13Cubed YouTube channel is a free learning resource provided by digital forensic professional Richard Davis. The channel includes informational videos on a wide range of topics, from penetration testing specifics to malware analysis. It is great for both beginners and professionals in the field that are interested in certain areas of computer forensics and cyber crime.
13Cubed Overview
- Type of Resource: Website/video platform
- Cost: Free
- Ideal For: People who want to hone their skills and improve their knowledge of computer forensics
The Art of Memory Forensics
This book is a practical guide to the constantly evolving techniques of investigation for digital forensics, law enforcement, and incident response. Since memory forensics is now becoming one of the most sought-after skills in the digital forensics and incident response fields, learners will find this book very helpful in knowing about the importance of this skill and how to utilize it.
The Art of Memory Forensics Overview
- Type of Resource: Book
- Cost: $50
- Ideal For: Anyone with a desire to learn about memory forensics and malware analysis
Best Online Courses
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Computer Forensics Job Outlook and Average Salary
The job outlook for computer forensics is expected to grow by 33 percent by 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which is much faster than the national average. About 16,300 job openings for information security analysts are projected per year for the next 10 years. The average annual median salary for computer forensics professionals is $102,600.
Best Computer Forensics Jobs After Certification
The best computer forensic jobs after certification include information security manager, cyber security engineer, computer hacking forensic investigation, security engineer, cyber security analyst, and forensic computer analyst roles.
An information security manager is responsible for maintaining security-related protocols in their organization, as well as establishing ways of increasing information and network security. They are also responsible for checking updates and configuration to ensure infrastructural and software safety.
Best Certification for the Job Role
Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI). This certification provides advanced training for computer forensic professionals working in information system security, incident response, and digital forensics.
Cyber security engineers use their expertise to discover dangers and weaknesses in systems and software, then develop and deploy high-tech solutions that protect against hacking, insider threats, malware, and all sorts of cyber crime.
Best Certification for the Job Role
Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI). The certification provides help for cyber crime investigators, incident responders, and cyber defense forensic analysts on how to apply knowledge learned in the field.
Security engineers are responsible for inventing computing solutions to improve their company's digital network security. They also have the duty of dealing with issues related to production security challenges, alongside discovering any intrusion on their company’s system and the necessary protocols on how to prevent such intrusion.
Best Certification for the Job Role
GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner. This certification trains participants in core areas of advanced computer forensics, threat hunting, and incident response, which are needed for the job of a security engineer.
Cyber security analysts have the key role of safeguarding their company's software, hardware, and networks. The analyst's major responsibility is to thoroughly understand the company's IT architecture, assess dangers to avoid compromised systems, and continuously monitor it.
Best Certification for the Job Role
GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst. This certification exposes participants to Windows-based forensic analysis and equips professionals with deep knowledge of cyber security.
Forensic computer analysts must obtain forensic facts and evidence through the analysis of computer-based information. To become an efficient forensic computer analyst, you must be skilled in handling computer storage devices and hard drives to examine user patterns.
Best Certification for the Job Role
Certification Digital Forensic Examiner (CDFE). This certification equips participants with sophisticated investigation and electronic discovery skills to make them proficient in the digital forensics field.
Best Computer Forensics Associations
Computer forensics associations will help experts and enthusiasts alike. Computer forensics associations will allow learners and professionals to network with like-minded people, seek job opportunities, and collaborate on computer forensic projects. Continue reading for some of the best computer forensics associations.
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) is an interdisciplinary association that provides its members with education and leadership opportunities. Members of the Digital & Multimedia Sciences in this association are provided access to professional magazines, reference libraries, job prospects, training, scholarships, educational grants, and instructive videos that help in maximizing their professional growth and development.
Information Systems Security Association International (ISSA)
The Information Systems Security Association International is a multinational, non-profit community for digital forensics and cyber security professionals. The association’s main objective is to promote and protect the digital world. Benefits available to members include local chapter connections, web conferences, regional events, unique deals, and certification opportunities.
American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS)
The American Society for Industrial Security aims to promote and advance the forensic security industry, as well as improve the speed of digital transformation with membership dues funding scholarship programs, certifications, and educational development. Members of this association gain access to deep learning, outstanding networking, and advanced career development.
Are Computer Forensics Certifications Worth It?
Yes, computer forensics certifications are worth it because of the high job demand in the computer forensics field and attractive earning potential. Businesses, law firms, banks, government agencies, police departments, and many other establishments rely on computer forensics to help protect their systems and data from cyber criminals. Computer forensics certifications will open the door to countless career opportunities.
Additional Reading About Computer Forensics
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Computer Forensics Certifications FAQ
Yes, computer forensics is a very good career. The demand for computer forensics is ever-growing as the world rapidly advances, and the earning potential for these careers is high.
The difference between computer forensics and cyber security is that computer forensics is concerned with preserving and recovering deleted or encrypted data, whereas cyber security is concerned with preventing data loss, cyber crime, and working with law enforcement personnel to ensure safety.
With a digital forensic certification, you can work as an information system security professional, information security analyst, forensic computer analyst, malware analyst, computer forensic examiner, or security consultant.
The different types of computer forensics include network forensics, malware forensics, memory forensics, disk forensics, database forensics, email forensics, mobile phone forensic, as well as wireless forensics. These types differ based on their functions.
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