The tool can extract encryption keys from a memory dump file, a hibernation file, or a crash dump file. If a target computer is powered on (or in sleep mode), an investigator can perform a live memory acquisition. Elcomsoft Forensic Disk Decryptor then analyzes this memory dump to locate and extract the master decryption keys. Once these keys are obtained, the encrypted disk can be decrypted instantly, bypassing the need to guess or brute-force the user's password.