Log parsing is the splitting of large volumes of logs so that they are easy to interpret, analyze, and store. A log parser provides universal query access to text-based data such as log files, XML files, and CSV files.
Every log file is comprised of large sections of information stored in plain text. Log parser software understands the type of the log and splits it into different categories, so that it can be recognized, understood, organized, and stored.
Let's look at a line from a Windows Event log as an example.
5/6/2020 11:52:39 PM 1001 Application Information 'Windows Error Reporting' Test-PC - None Windows Update Failure
A log parser splits this into fields such as date and time, event ID, type, level, source, computer name, user, task category, and message so that one can easily interpret and understand the log and store it for future reference.
Manually analyzing or debugging an issue from a log file is a herculean task, as logs are very lengthy. When a log parser is used, it organizes logs and makes it quick and easy to troubleshoot from a categorized piece of information.
Analyze any type of log, and interpret it.
A log parser stores historical data, making it easier to compare and troubleshoot issues.
Management aids: With features like filtering, indexing, and alerting, log parsers save time on managing the piles of logs.