Digital forensics increasingly relies on volatile data captured from Random Access Memory (RAM). However, the massive volume of memory in modern systems (e.g., 64GB+) presents significant storage and transport challenges. This paper examines —a hypothetical or niche implementation of FMC (Forensic Memory Capture) using BL (Block-Level) compression within a .7z (7-Zip) container. We evaluate its effectiveness in preserving forensic integrity while achieving superior compression ratios using LZMA2 and PPMd algorithms. 1. Introduction
The format supports header compression and hashing, ensuring that the original state of the capture can be verified against the compressed archive.
Utilizing the 7-Zip SDK to apply the LZMA2 algorithm , which is optimized for the high-redundancy data frequently found in system memory. 3. Advantages of the Format FMCBL.7z
Traditional memory imaging tools like Magnet RAM Capture or FTK Imager often output raw binary files (.RAW, .DMP). The format aims to standardize the encapsulation of these captures into the 7z open architecture, which supports AES-256 encryption and solid compression to minimize data redundancy. 2. Technical Framework The proposed FMCBL.7z workflow involves three core stages:
Memory dumps often contain significant "zero-fill" or repetitive patterns. 7z's solid compression allows these patterns to be compressed as a single stream, often reducing file size by over 80%. Utilizing the 7-Zip SDK to apply the LZMA2
The approach provides a robust alternative to raw memory storage. By combining the strengths of block-level capture with the extreme efficiency of the 7z format, forensic practitioners can better manage large-scale data while maintaining the chain of custody and evidentiary value.
Utilizing low-footprint drivers to extract physical RAM. FMCBL.7z
Dividing the memory dump into manageable segments to allow for parallel processing and selective extraction.