Computer Forensics Tool Testing Program (CFTT)

Welcome to the Computer Forensics Tool Testing (CFTT) Project Web Site.

There is a critical need in the law enforcement community to ensure the reliability of computer forensic tools. The goal of the Computer Forensic Tool Testing (CFTT) project at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is to establish a methodology for testing computer forensic software tools by development of general tool specifications, test procedures, test criteria, test sets, and test hardware. The results provide the information necessary for toolmakers to improve tools, for users to make informed choices about acquiring and using computer forensics tools, and for interested parties to understand the tools capabilities. A capability is required to ensure that forensic software tools consistently produce accurate and objective test results. Our approach for testing computer forensic tools is based on well-recognized international methodologies for conformance testing and quality testing.

The Computer Forensics Tool Testing Program is a project in The Software and Systems Division supported by the Special Programs Office and the Department of Homeland Security.  Through the Cyber Security Division Cyber Forensics project, the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology partners with the NIST CFTT project to provide forensic tool testing reports to the public. 

NEW: Federated Testing -- Guidance for common test methods & test report sharing via downloaded CD iso is available.