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Log messages into Splunk

by varshadusa
log message

Log messages were automatically recorded events in the form of chronological records that contain various details about the IT system and network. Log message management is critical for every NREN since it allows for efficient and high-quality analysis of service functionality and consumption, as well as the network as a whole. Furthermore, the ability to examine a large number of created log messages quickly and easily, as well as troubleshooting and selecting essential data for future reference, is critical.

Splunk Log Management Software is a complete application that allows for the gathering and scanning of a huge number of different types of log messages, the production of dynamic reports, and the graphic presentation of the necessary findings. Review the concepts like features, architecture, and working of Splunk through this online Splunk tutorial to understand quickly. Before discussing the log messages into Splunk let’s discuss log management and generating and collecting the log messages in Splunk.

Log Management in Splunk

Logfile management is a complicated process that involves creating, transferring, storing, and finally analyzing a significant volume of data within an information system. Log files are collections of chronological records which contain a variety of data and automatically recorded events in the system and network. Initially, logs were meant to identify security occurrences and solve problems; however, they today serve a variety of other, equally vital tasks. They’re used to improve service and network performance, track user behavior and collect data for research and analysis.

Log message management is becoming more important as the amount, scope, and diversity of logs grows. Logfile management is an important part of protecting and maintaining the service and network’s functionality. The ability to collect various log messages from many sources in one location, as well as their automatic browsing and analysis, is critical in any IT environment. A variety of tools and software enable rapid and successful problem analysis, as well as timely effect and action, without the need for manual data collecting, organization, and browsing. An organization can maintain the network and services in a highly efficient manner by utilizing these opportunities and functions.

In different contexts, different log records provide information of varying importance. Hence, there are standard logs that provide primary detailed information for each of them. Others contain supplementary, less important data that can be useful for analyzing events from the major logs.

The log collection and management process assists NREN (National Research and Education Network) in a number of ways. This allows for the storage of all information in the form of records for a set period of time. Routine log reviews and analysis are critical for detecting incidents, problems with the network and service’s operation, and troubleshooting them. They may also play a key role in the analysis of end-user behavior, as well as be a part of internal research and foundations, as well as the identification of operational trends and long-term challenges.

Log Messages Generating and Collection

Log record management infrastructure includes the hardware, software, network, and devices that are used to generate, collect, store, analyze, and utilize log records. This word also encompasses a number of functionalities that complement the procedures already mentioned. Some of them also parse logs. (data extraction from the log so that parsed values can be used as inputs for other log operations). The collection and storage procedure includes reducing, compressing, converting, archiving, and rotating log files according to a set schedule, as well as verifying their integrity. The final step is to analyze the logs. Records mapping from one or more sources (based on IP address, DNS name, event category, etc. ), log display, and report preparation are all part of log analysis. 

There are several methods for creating and collecting logs. Certain software that supports the Syslog protocol may be forbidden under the NREN’s safety policy. All three software variants available for the Linux platform are used in AMRES for the purposes of monitoring the operation of some critical services:

  • syslog
  • syslog-ng
  • rsyslog

Log messages into Splunk

The EDGE platform frequently requires login into an external logging system, and Splunk is one of the most prevalent systems we need to enter into.

Splunk can be accessed in a variety of ways. A few other techniques to log are listed below:

Install the Splunk Enterprise on-premises to test this out.

1. Logging through HTTP

The first step is to set up an HTTP Event Collector in Splunk. I did it by following the instructions here: {http://dev.splunk.com/view/event-collector/SP-CAAAE7F}

When you’re done, Splunk would be listening on port 8088 by default for incoming HTTP/s queries.

Then, to send logs over HTTP/s event Collector, construct a Service callout policy with the following settings.

Logging through HTTP

In Splunk, the logs look like this:
In Splunk, the logs look like this

2. Logging through TCP

Message Logging Policy can also log through UDP or TCP.

Both protocols are supported by Apigee and Splunk. However, because TCP is recommended by Splunk, we shall utilize it.

The policy would be as follows:

The policy would be as follows

3. Logging through javascript

You can also log into Splunk using javascript or node.js. Associated tutorials can be found here: {http://dev.splunk.com/view/javascript-sdk/SP-CAAAEC9}

  1. There is yet another way to log into Splunk. However, this is only for Apigee on-premise (private cloud) clients.

Messages can be logged to the local file system using the message logging policy. Check here: {http://docs.apigee.com/api-services/reference/message-logging-policy#location}

Splunk agents can be installed on those instances. The messages logged by each Splunk agent can be forwarded to the Splunk server.

Conclusion:

In this blog, we have successfully learned various technical ways of logging messages into Splunk. To upgrade the skills on Splunk accredit the certification with this online Splunk training course.

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