.log
Computer files with the extension .log are, as the extension suggests, records of past activity. These logs are usually saved by programs and operating systems when changes are made, or other events of note take place. They are usually text lists, with each line containing one item with a time and date stamp. Log files are usually not usable by the software which has created, but only usable by people. They are generally used for diagnostic or maintenance purposes. Although most users are not aware, almost every personal computer is making logs of various sorts, as well as every server. Logs are especially needed by server administrators to ensure that it is operating correctly and has not been broken into (hacked). As text files, these logs can be opened by Microsoft Notepad or any other plain text editor.[1]
Proponents of Internet privacy often dislike logs, and will try to delete files with the .log extension frequently, but most of these files are only a risk if they are stolen by an unauthorized party (hacker). However, some server logs can be (and are) misused by the actual sever owner(s).
