There are two fundamental files that are part of NTFS that are of most interest. These are the Master File Table (MFT), and the __________.

The Master File Table (MFT) is indeed one of the most important components of the NTFS (New Technology File System), as it contains information about all the files and directories on the volume. The cluster bitmap serves as the second fundamental file of interest because it is responsible for managing the usage of clusters within the file system.

Each cluster on an NTFS volume can either be occupied by files or be free. The cluster bitmap provides a map of which clusters are in use and which are available for new files. This efficient management of storage space is crucial for optimizing file system performance and preventing fragmentation, which enhances overall system responsiveness.

Understanding the role of the cluster bitmap is essential for those working in digital forensics and cybersecurity, as it aids in identifying file locations, recovering deleted files, and analyzing storage usage patterns on NTFS volumes. Being aware of these components allows forensic analysts to extract and assess data accurately during investigations.