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Logging is a data collection method that stores pieces of information about the
events that take place in a computer system. There are different kinds of log files
based on the kind of information they contain, the events that trigger log
creation, and several other factors. This post focuses on log files created by the
three main operating systems--Windows, Mac, and Linux, and on the main differences
in the ways to access and read log files for each OS.
Since .log is a plain text extension, you can read logs using any kind of text
editing software - Notepad, Notepad++, Microsoft Word, etc. Many advanced users
prefer Notepad++ because of its built-in features that make log reading easier. You
can use Styler to highlight or color custom keywords such as warnings and errors
you wish to trace, which allows you to read log files much faster.
The Console app is basically the Mac version of Event Viewer for Windows, and you
can access it via Finder or Spotlight search. The default screen shows console
errors, but you can go through other folders for other reports. The System Reports
folder contains information about all system applications, while you can find user
application logs in the User Reports folder. The folder called ~Library/Logs shows
the user-specific application log folder for the currently logged-in user, and you
can access other users� data by logging out, signing in as another user, and
reopening the Console app.
Finally, you can handle log files as you would any other text file and access them
via a text editor like TextEdit. Unfortunately, handling log files with TextEdit
isn�t as intuitive or simple as with Notepad++ for Windows, which is why many users
who switch from Windows to Mac resort to other methods.
While basic text editors are a good choice for users with modest demands, they come
with performance limitations and lack advanced features compared to read log
software. For example, a log file size can range from several kB to several MB
(there are even instances of gargantuan logs that are several GB big), and if you
try to open a file that is too big, you will get an error message. If it doesn�t
crash, built-in software often works very slowly with large logs. Even if you
manage to open a file that is a couple hundred MB big, it contains so many lines it
is virtually impossible to find your way around by simply scrolling through them.
Depending on your system needs, consider using open source software or investing in
a quality solution that enables you to go through log files with more speed, ease,
and accuracy through centralized logging.