What is the primary function of a write blocker?

The primary function of a write blocker is to prevent accidental damage to a drive during information acquisition. Write blockers are critical tools in digital forensics and data recovery; they enable investigators to access data on a storage device without altering or overwriting any of the data present on that device. This is essential for maintaining the integrity of the evidence, ensuring that any analysis or examination is based solely on the original data as it was found.

When using a write blocker, all write operations are blocked, meaning no changes can be made to the drive, thus preserving the original data in its untouched state. This is vital in legal and investigative contexts where the authenticity and reliability of the data could be challenged if there is any indication that the data has been altered or tampered with.

Other options, while related to data management in various ways, do not accurately capture the primary purpose of a write blocker in the context of data protection and forensic investigations.