Linux logs (Red Hat family): Where are system and mail log files typically stored on Red Hat–based distributions?

Introduction / Context:
Logs are crucial for troubleshooting and auditing. On Red Hat–based systems (and most Unix-like OSes), the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS) defines conventional locations for log files, enabling consistent administration across systems and tools.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers to Red Hat Linux and derivatives.
• We consider default, conventional locations without custom redirection by administrators.
• Examples include system logs (messages, secure) and mail logs (maillog).

Concept / Approach:

The directory /var/log holds variable log files for the system. Within it, files such as /var/log/messages, /var/log/secure, and /var/log/maillog are commonly used. Systemd-journald may store binary journals under /var/log/journal as well, and rsyslog can forward to text files in the same tree.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Run ls /var/log to see typical logs. If systemd-journald is primary, check journalctl and confirm persistent storage under /var/log/journal when configured.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• /etc/log: /etc holds configuration, not runtime logs.
• /mail: Not a standard log directory; mail logs are in /var/log/maillog by default on Red Hat.
• All of the above: Incorrect; only /var/log is correct.
• None of the above: Incorrect since /var/log is correct.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming logs are always plain text; journald can store binary logs. Also, admins can customize rsyslog to write elsewhere, but defaults follow FHS conventions.

Final Answer:

/var/log