The correct method is running `extundelete /dev/sda1 --restore-file /path/to/file`, as this utility is specifically designed to recover deleted files on ext3 and ext4 filesystems by parsing the journal and inode metadata. When a file is deleted on ext4, its inode is marked as free but the data blocks remain intact until overwritten, so extundelete can reconstruct the file if the inode has not been reallocated. On the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI exam, this question tests your understanding of Linux filesystem forensics and the limitations of recovery tools—a common trap is assuming `dd` or `grep` alone can recover structured files, but extundelete is purpose-built for journal-based recovery. Remember the mnemonic “Inode Intact, extundelete Acts” to recall that success hinges on the inode not being reused.
CHFI Storage Forensics and File System Analysis Practice Question
This CHFI practice question tests your understanding of storage forensics and file system analysis. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A Linux system uses the ext4 filesystem. A forensic analyst needs to recover a recently deleted file. Which of the following methods is MOST likely to succeed if the file's inode has not been reallocated?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "most likely"
Why it matters: Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Run `extundelete /dev/sda1 --restore-file /path/to/file`
extundelete is a utility that can recover deleted files on ext3/4 by parsing the journal and inode information. It works best if the inode is still intact.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Mount the filesystem with `mount -o ro,noatime` and browse
Why it's wrong here
Mounting read-only does not recover deleted files.
✗
Use `dd` to copy the entire partition and search for the file signature
Why it's wrong here
That is carving, which may work but is less targeted.
✗
Use `ls -la` to view deleted file entries
Why it's wrong here
ls does not show deleted files.
✓
Run `extundelete /dev/sda1 --restore-file /path/to/file`
Why this is correct
Correct. extundelete is designed for this purpose.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
ls does not show deleted files.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
→Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
→Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
→Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this CHFI question in full detail.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CHFI NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Storage Forensics and File System Analysis — This question tests Storage Forensics and File System Analysis — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Run `extundelete /dev/sda1 --restore-file /path/to/file` — extundelete is a utility that can recover deleted files on ext3/4 by parsing the journal and inode information. It works best if the inode is still intact.
What should I do if I get this CHFI question wrong?
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CHFI NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "most likely". Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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