How to Delete Log Files in a Windows Directory

Microsoft Windows operating systems log events that are important to the security and functionality of the operating system and various applications. Three types of log files are captured: application, security and system. These log files document informational, warning, error and auditing events. Some properties for the log files such as event retention, maximum size of log file and type of events to be logged can be specified. A user may wish to delete the log files to assist in troubleshooting or remove information about events in the computer's history.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Windows XP or later

Instructions

1. Click "Start," click "Control Panel," click "Administrative Tools," and then double-click "Event Viewer."

2. Select either "Security," "Application" or "System" log file from the left menu pane.

3. Click "Action" from the menu bar and then select "Clear all Events."

4. Select "No" in the pop-up dialog to not save the log file before deletion.

5. Close the "Event Viewer" window to complete the deletion of the log file.

References

• Microsoft Website: Clear an Event Log