Log files, which are sometimes referred to as event files, generally deal with common text files. These contain information on all processes that have been defined as being relevant by their corresponding programmers. When it comes to a database’s log file, this shows all the changes made to correctly executed transactions. If part of a database is deleted, e.g. in the course of a system shutdown, log files act as a basis for recovering the data set to its proper state.
Log files are automatically generated according to how they’ve been programmed. It’s also possible to create your own files, provided you’re familiar enough with the technical aspects involved. Generally, a line within a log file contains the following information:
- Recorded events (e.g. program start)
- Time stamp, which assigns a date and time to the event
Normally, the time is put on first in order to display the chronological sequence of events.