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Working with Syslog Data

In this lab, we will install, configure, and use Logwatch, which is an application that helps identify events that need review. We'll then manually review syslog data for VNC events and export the syslog data to a text file.

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Path Info

Level
Clock icon Beginner
Duration
Clock icon 30m
Last updated
Clock icon Aug 05, 2025

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Table of Contents

  1. Challenge

    Install Logwatch and mailutils. Then run Logwatch and review the results.

    Install logwatch and mailutils:

    1. Connect to the lab server using SSH or the Instant Terminal.
    2. Run the commands sudo apt-get update and sudo apt-get install -y logwatch.
    3. When prompted, select OK by pressing the tab button until "OK" is highlighted, then select Local only and press "Enter/Return".
    4. Next, use the down arrow to select OK and then click OK when asked for the System mail name.
    5. Run the command sudo apt-get install -y mailutils.

    Run Logwatch and view the results:

    1. Run the command sudo logwatch --detail Low --mailto root --service All --range today.
    2. Run the command sudo mail, then type the number 1 and hit enter. This will open up the email from Logwatch that contains the reported data. Use the spacebar to scroll through the report.
    3. Use CTRL+X, or your system's equivalent, to exit the report.
    4. Type exit to close the mail application.

  2. Challenge

    Manually review syslog data from the terminal and with Gedit. Export syslog data to a file named `syslog.txt` on the Desktop of the server.

    1. Manually review syslog data:
      1. Type the command sudo cat /var/log/syslog | grep vnc.
      2. View the log entries pertaining to VNC activity.
    2. Export syslog data to syslog.txt on the Desktop of the server with the command sudo cat /var/log/syslog > /home/cloud_user/Desktop/syslog.txt.
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