Every system log generated by various network tools and servers produces vast quantities of data, which eventually become impossible to manage using a manual process. Organizations today also have the responsibility to comply with policies; thus, giving IT managers the additional task of implementing strategies to harness and analyze these big volumes of data. With adequate planning and a sound model, log management is typically straightforward and has benefits that are favorable to the organization in many aspects.

This article we will review the differences between popular log analysis tools - Splunk (News - Alert), ELK and XpoLog.

What is the definition of log management?

According to the National Institute for Standards and Technology, log management is defined as the process by which computer security log data is generated, transmitted, stored, analyzed, and finally disposed of. Put into practice, log management details what information needs logging, the system or process of logging, and the amount of time required to retain the information logged. An organization achieves this goal by determining specific hardware, software, and policy requirements.

Benefits of implementing a log management system

Log management systems available today prove to be valuable investments for organizations that benefit from the benefit of these tech innovations. But not every log management system is created the same. Some of the advantages of using a reliable log management system are:

• Eliminating fragmented data by streamlining daily transactional information. A central log management tool allows the organization to create correlations between various events occurring in different resources which help understand the big picture.
• Automated normalization of log patterns. Parsed and normalized log patterns in one language help turn raw data into actionable insights.
• Log management tool that can offer pro-active actions and prevention.
• Enhanced visibility of enterprise functions and crucial business processes
• Central data storage essential for security.
• High-capacity drives, which reduce data volatility and make projections possible by analyzing trends.

Before an organization purchases a log management system, different variations in functionality and features need to be scrutinized to ascertain which solution meets the needs of the organization.

Comparing SPLUNK, ELK, and XpoLog

The latest log management systems available today offer a variety of options for IT and business process optimization. Here is a comparison of three popular tools used by many organizations.

1. SPLUNK. This IT software is designed specifically for security investigation and monitoring. The software works efficiently for data collection, log analysis, threat detection, and a lot more. One of the positive things about SPLUNK is the user-friendly search capability, and the software simplifies data analysis. However, a downside to the system is the cost. Many users find that it is too expensive compared with other log management systems.
2. XpoLog. This is a log management tool for IT, security, and DevOps. Organizations use it to analyze and monitor logs of different systems, clouds, servers, syslog, web aps, DB’s, security tools and devices. It can perform advanced data analytics and makes use of robust log data management systems. As software used primarily for log analysis, it collates data from cloud-hosted apps, IT infrastructure, and servers, which makes it a valuable tool in problem resolution. The system is easy to deploy and automates the entire log analysis process effortlessly. It also includes user dashboards, pre-defined reports, and log analysis apps integrated with AI for proactively detecting possible problems and risks in the environment. It also includes a monitoring tool and easy search features. an end-to-end solution.
3. ELK. One of the most popular log management systems used today by both commercial and open-source log monitoring is the Elastic Stack or ELK. This solution is attractive because it is open-source and free. However, if an organization wants to automate or get alerts, they need to pay a significant amount. Parsing logs, searching, and visualization takes time and resources to accomplish.

Indeed, log management systems have become crucial for companies to get a better insight into IT and other processes. Ultimately, deciding which log management system to choose depends on the enterprise needs, requirements, infrastructure, and budget.