Capterra Logo
Helping businesses choose better software since 1999

Capterra Glossary

Log (Log File)

A log, commonly referred to as a log file, is a data file that automatically records and tracks the computing events, including transactions, intrusions, and errors, of an operating system, a computing device, a server, or a software tool. A log file has three basic elements: timestamp, user information, and event information. The timestamp records the exact time a computing event occurred, and the event information details what action was taken. Log files allow IT teams to track activities running behind the scenes of a computing system. These files are often used to diagnose computer issues or for auditing purposes.

What Small and Midsize Businesses Need to Know About Log (Log File)

SMBs can use server log file analysis to find out how Googlebot processes their website so they can improve its search engine optimization (SEO). This process allows SMBs to better understand what their most popular webpages are, if there are any accessibility issues with their website, and if Googlebot can easily process their website. Leveraging server log files empowers growing SMBs to bring in more traffic to their company websites and increase visitor conversion rates.

Related Terms