How to Create a Log File

A log file is a file that lists actions that have occurred on your computer or on a server. Log files can be used to analyze and troubleshoot. You can use Microsoft Notepad to create a log file that will add the date and time every time that file is opened.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Microsoft Windows
• Microsoft Notepad

1. Click "Start." Point to "Programs" or "All Programs" and point to "Accessories." Click on "Notepad." A new Notepad will open.

2. Click "Start" and type "Notepad" in the "Start Search" field if you are using Windows Vista. Click "Notepad" from the resulting "Programs" list and a new Notepad will open.

3. Type ".LOG" (without the quotation marks) on the first line. Press "Enter." Your cursor will move to the second line.

4. Click "File" on the toolbar, and then click "Save As." Navigate to the location on your computer where you wish to save your log file. Enter a name for your log file and click "Save."

5. Close the Notepad. The next time you open it, the Notepad file will automatically log the current date and time. If you want it to save this information as well as anything you add to it, simply click "Save" before closing the file.

Resources

• eHow article "How to Write HTML in Notepad"