Bit-by-Bit Copy

Definition(s)

• Bit stream backup (also referred to as mirror image backup) involves the backup of all areas of a computer hard disk drive or another type of storage media. Such a backup exactly replicates all sectors on a given storage device. Thus, all files and ambient data storage areas are copied. Bit stream backups – sometimes also referred to as “evidence grade” backups – differ substantially from traditional computer file backups and network server backups.

Notes

1. Fenwick & West LLP, FWPS eDiscovery Terminology (11/6/2005). Citing NTI’s Computer Forensics Definitions, http://www.forensics-intl.com/def2.html