An access log is a detailed record that documents every interaction with an organization's digital resources and infrastructure. These comprehensive logs capture critical events including user authentications, data requests, file system access, and system configuration changes across network devices, web applications, databases, and servers. Each entry typically contains a precise timestamp, source IP address, the user or entity performing the action, the specific resource accessed, the type of action initiated (such as read, write, or modify), and the outcome of the request.

Security professionals leverage access logs to monitor system activity, identify unauthorized access attempts, detect anomalous behavior indicative of potential threats, and perform forensic analysis following security incidents. This systematic collection of auditable data provides an immutable trail offering crucial visibility into usage patterns. Beyond threat detection and incident response, robust access logging is essential for maintaining regulatory compliance, ensuring accountability, and reinforcing a proactive security posture within complex enterprise environments.