$ Linux Command

Logs

logrotate

Rotate, compress, and manage log files.

logssystemtroubleshoot

Additional Notes

logrotate is a log command used to rotate, compress, and manage log files. It automates log rotation, compression, and removal to prevent logs from filling up disk space.

Configuration files live in /etc/logrotate.conf and /etc/logrotate.d/. Run logrotate -d CONFIG for a dry run that shows what would happen without making changes.

Syntax

logrotate [options] [arguments]

Parameters

  • options: Flags that change how logrotate behaves.
  • unit-or-file: Service name, log file, or log source to inspect.
  • time-range: Optional time filter for narrowing log output.

Common Options

  • --help: Show command help when supported.
  • --version: Show version information when supported.

Examples

logrotate --help
man logrotate

Practical Notes

Options can vary by distribution and package version. Use man logrotate, logrotate --help, or the package documentation for exact syntax.