A business can only remain successful if it oversees its activity and the privileged access offered to employees. This is where access logs come in handy. These logs contain information on current activity and who has access to which business data. It helps in safeguarding business information and reducing vulnerabilities against cyberattacks, internal threats, and data breaches.
Ignoring access control logs can be fatal for the security of a business and impact its strategic and operational efficacy. In this article, we help you understand the role access logs play for a business.
What are Access Logs and their Types?
An access log is used to record all events that are related to user access and application resources on a computer. This helps in capturing the digital footprints that internet users leave in the form of web usage. Such data is recorded in web servers, which can help to pinpoint troubleshooting errors and analyse business strategies. Many businesses also invest in cybersecurity services to take advantage of these access logs and enhance their security.
Access logs are usually of three types:
- Activity logs- These logs record user action in a particular session, like the Azure Activity log.
- Server access logs- These logs contain information on user connections and resource requests.
- Error logs- Any errors that occurred during client sessions are recorded in these logs.
The following are some examples of the type of data collected within access logs:
- The time and date of access
- The IP address of the user and their hostname
- Username
- Number of visitors for a specific homepage
- Number of requests per activity on a page
Benefits of File Access Logs For a Business
The following are some reasons that make access logs a strategic business asset:
Enhanced security
Businesses can stay more vigilant to detect security incidents. These logs provide information for unauthorized access, data breaches, or suspicious activity. This can help in taking proactive measures for cyber threats. Furthermore, access logs are used by businesses to troubleshoot errors. However, these logs must have a strong password to avoid information leaks.
You can use an active directory security auditing solution to further help IT experts to tackle access errors related to passwords. This can help you create stronger passwords which makes it harder for hackers to steal your data.
Better access control
Businesses can automate access control using access logs that can help in granting or revoking permissions. This provides control over roles and policies, ensuring critical duties are fulfilled without excessive information sharing. It helps in business management, offering employees access to what they need and nothing more.
Ensuring compliances
Access logs are highly relevant for businesses that are operating under strict regulations. These logs can avoid legal troubles associated with the violation of GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC. Furthermore, businesses in finance, medicine, and healthcare can enforce security policies and reduce human errors. These are also important for auditing, timely investigation, and eliminating costly GDPR fines.
Monitoring user activity
You can use access logs to improve employee workflow by monitoring user activity. These logs offer deep and latest insights into user behaviors that can identify bottlenecks for various processes and digital strategies. By studying user interactions, organisations can make informed decisions.
Increases employee productivity
Access logs contain real-time information on employee activities that keep them accountable. Your team can instantly spot errors and does not need to waste time on resetting multiple passwords. Also, management can spot the areas for policy changes and identify areas for staff training. Plus, the reduced burden of security breaches contributes to better productivity, faster workflows for teams, and improved business efficiency.
Controls risk
Internal threats and cyber crimes may go unnoticed without properly examining the access logs. Businesses and IT experts can check file access logs and multiple failed attempts to identify potential dangers. These logs contain a trail that can help in capturing the culprit by tracing the steps of unauthorized users. Companies can strengthen their security and prevent future breaches by ensuring two-factor authentication, centralized access, or with services de cybersécurité.
Best Practices For Access Logs Maintenance
Follow these best practices for access log maintenance:
- The best way to ensure access logs are performing well is to review them regularly.
- Try to identify patterns and anomalies and see what preventive measures you can take to avoid a security breach.
- Make sure the logs are safely kept and are encrypted to prevent tampering or unauthorized access.
- If the logs are irrelevant or not in use, it is best to delete them to save cost and reduce storage.
- It is best to build a message to understand the log context.
Conclusion
Without proper log management, a business can find it difficult to find who accesses sensitive information. Access logs are not only helpful for strengthening security but also offer insights into employee integrity and productivity. If you want your business to have secure digital assets, access logs are a must for a strategic approach.
