As systems (operating systems and database systems) and applications run (such as SaaS-based ERP solutions), the underlying software often records (logs) various events. An operating system, for example, might track who logs into a system, from where (IP address), and when. Likewise, an application might log who has viewed data and when, updated or deleted data, and so on.
When you contract with a cloud provider, you must understand the system and application logging as well as your ability to audit such logs. You may use such logs to determine performance, identify a security breach, measure system utilization, and more. Your SLA should clearly state your ability to audit such logs, the timeliness of the log availability, and the process for accessing the logs.
