An error log is a record of errors encountered by a system. There are many different ways to use error logs and they can be extremely useful tools for people who need to diagnose and manage systems like web servers, office networks, etc. Access to the error log may require special administrative permissions, which are designed as a security measure to prevent unauthorized persons from viewing error documentation.
IT technicians can diagnose the cause of problems recorded in an error log.
Some error logs list all the errors that occur. Others can be programmed to selectively save error information by listing only a few error codes. Regardless of how the system works, each entry in the error log includes an error code, a time, and can add other information such as an action someone was trying to complete, someone’s location, and whether or not the error was resolved. . Logs can be searched to identify specific patterns or errors encountered by a given user.
For webmasters, checking the error logs can provide useful information about problems people are encountering. People don’t always report bugs, and if a webmaster has an invalid link, unsubmitable form, or similar problem, it can show up in the log before anyone reports the problem to them. The logs can also provide information about hacking attempts, as hackers can cause server errors by trying to compromise the system.
For systems such as office networks, logs are used to track problems encountered by users and to try to determine what is causing these errors. An error log on an individual system or computer can also be helpful, especially if someone is reporting problems. By viewing the log, a technician can learn more about the issues encountered and what exactly happened. The technician can resolve the error or provide the user with information on where they went wrong.
Some systems will keep an error log up to a certain number of entries, while others will archive the logs for you to refer to at any time. It is also possible to adjust these settings within the system control panel. Someone launching a new website, for example, might want a large file, anticipating potential problems once the website goes live, whereas a well-established, stable website might not need to have such a large file.
