Start/notes.ini Parameters/Log

Log

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Parameter: Log
Short description: Defines the log database (log.nsf) including retention options – the classic Notes/Domino log configuration.

Profile

Parameter
Log
Category
Logging / Debug
Component
Server
Available since
R4
Supported versions
9.0.1, 10.0, 11.0, 12.0, 14.0, 14.5
GUI equivalent
Configuration document (Logging tab)
Possible values
Syntax: Log=<Logfile>,<LogOption>,<NotUsed>,<Days>,<Size>, e.g. Log=log.nsf,1,0,7,40000

Description

The Log parameter configures Domino's central log database (typically log.nsf). It controls both the file name and the behavior for trimming old entries as well as the maximum size.
Fields in the value (comma-separated):
  • Logfile – path / name of the log database
  • LogOption – bitmask: 1 = log to console at server startup, 2 = include replications, additional bits for specific event classes
  • NotUsed – historical / always 0
  • Days – retention period in days (older entries are deleted)
  • Size – maximum size in KB
The GUI variant via the Configuration document is much more convenient and should be preferred in production environments.

Example configuration

Log=log.nsf,1,0,7,40000

Notes & pitfalls

  • The Configuration document overrides this setting – if both are maintained, the Configuration document wins.
  • Choose retention days realistically: 7 days is the default, 14–30 days makes sense with heavy usage.
  • log.nsf tends to grow large – schedule regular compact runs.
  • For audit / compliance purposes, additionally enable console capture (Console_Log_Enabled=1) if needed.
  • The change takes effect only after a server restart.