Thanks to advancement in technology, more people and companies are using information systems in their daily activities. However, these information systems are susceptible to threats that might lead to the loss of vital information or even physical damage to machines. Cybersecurity, therefore, refers to the protection of computer systems from external threats. The concept of cybersecurity aims at securing information systems from malicious activities such as theft and damage to data, hardware and system software. It provides computer security personnel with the flexibility to control access to information systems.
What are Log Files?
Log Files are documents that store data about system activity. They are records that contain information about the system. The information includes running applications, services, system errors and messages from the kernel.
In the world of cybersecurity, log files are texts that provide security information about a system. The information includes IP address of the system, network address, computer name, and login data. Login data includes log in username, date and time of previous login and current login status. Security log files assist the system administrator to identify and detect any unauthorized login attempts. With information from the log files, the administrator is able to take stringent measures to improve the security of the system.
Importance of Log Files
Log files are useful in post-error investigations. By using log files, you are able to determine the causes of a certain error or security breach. This is because the log files record data in concurrently with the activities of the information system. For instance, you are able to determine the last active user account prior to the error. Additionally, you will be able to determine if the error was intentional or accidental depending on the number of attempts to breach the security infrastructure.
Log file analysis allows you to control access to a particular resource. You can determine which systems can access resources such as printers, using information available in the log files. Any breach of the set restrictions will be available in the log files.
As a cybersecurity administrator, you are able to use log files to determine the best security infrastructure for your systems network. Numerous attempts to breach your network security as recorded in the log files is an indication that you require a highly secure infrastructure.
Careers in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is vital to all industries that require information systems. With advancement in technology, the use of computers in almost all sectors has now become universal. Even Smart phones and iPads are minicomputer systems and are vulnerable to attacks. Therefore, cybersecurity covers a broad spectrum hence creating numerous career opportunities.
The work of computer security professionals is dynamic and exciting. For you to excel in this industry, it is imperative that you undertake training in information technology, as well as possess analytical capabilities. Cybersecurity personnel must possess the skills and knowledge to detect and respond to threats efficiently. Some of the common careers in cybersecurity include computer network architects, information security analysts, cryptographers and information systems managers.
