JS 504: Intro to Computer Forensics

Taken: Fall 2011
Instructor: Gary Warner


        This is an interesting class. If you even have the slightest interest in computer forensics, you should at least check this class out. You learn a lot of the basics about computer forensics in this class so you can find out if it is something worth trying out. As far as graduate students go, it is a lot of work. There is an extra paper and a small research project with a paper. It's nothing that one can't handle, but it can still be a lot. And both are worth doing if you are interested in this part of forensics because you will learn more about it doing the research and writing the papers.

           Beware: Gary is a [long] story teller. =] So if something comes up in the lecture that reminds him of something, the story will be told. Don't worry, they are interesting and you often learn something new. Gary is a great teacher tho. He's also very busy so sometimes there will be one of his grad students in there teacher for him while he is away. There are also times when he will not be available. I work in his lab and still don't see him often. So, if you need him, try to set an appointment, get his number, and most importantly, DO NOT email him anything [important] expecting a response. =) He literally gets thousands of emails a day and it will probably get lost. He will tell you to head the subject with the class number to help him see it, which kind of works. He will look at the email if he sees it but he most likely will  not respond. So, if you do email him, follow up about it the next time you see him.When he gives the review of what will be on the test, know that stuff and know everything about it. If you at least know what you are talking about and forget one part of the answer, you will still get credit. If he says something and emphasizes it, KNOW it (like with other teachers).

          I think that is it. It is a good starter class for computer forensics for anyone to figure out whether or not that's the right field. If so, there is a computer forensics certificate to work towards (and this class counts towards it). If you're truly interested in this field, Gary is the one to tell. So in class look interested, participate, ask questions, the whole nine; It will all benefit you in the end.