What Does File Carving Mean?

File carving refers to the reconstruction of computer files that takes place without helpful metadata indicators or other specific guidance. In the absence of this directive information, software systems have to use sophisticated heuristics and probability handling tools in order to successfully reassemble files.

Techopedia Explains File Carving

One definition of file carving that is presented by some experts is the idea that software systems have to accurately collect pieces of file information from a larger “homogenous” data set on a disk drive or other storage area. File carving software can use markers like headers and footers to try to identify parts of a file. Beyond this, specialized algorithms can also help to improve file recovery outcomes.