What is the term for the wasted area in a disk cluster that occurs when a file is smaller than the cluster size?

The term for the wasted area in a disk cluster that occurs when a file is smaller than the cluster size is known as slack space. In a file system, data is stored in units called clusters, and each cluster occupies a specific amount of space on the disk. When a file is smaller than the cluster size, the remaining space within that cluster is not utilized for other files, creating slack space. This space may contain residual data from previously deleted files, and it can potentially be recovered, making it significant in digital forensics.

Understanding slack space is crucial for forensic analysts because it helps in the process of data recovery and analysis. The presence of remnants of old files in slack space can provide valuable insights during investigations, as it may contain fragments of deleted files or sensitive information that could be pertinent to a case. Recognizing the implications of slack space aids forensic professionals in making informed decisions about data retrieval and evidence presentation.