# audit log

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/audit-log
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a digital record that tracks every action or change made in a computer system. It helps people see who did what and when it happened.

For teachers: a chronological record of security-relevant chronological sequences or activities that provide documentary evidence of the sequence of activities that have affected at any time a specific operation, procedure, or event.

## Examples

- The administrator checked the audit log to see who deleted the file.
- After the security breach, the IT team reviewed the audit log to identify the exact moment the unauthorized user gained access to the database.
- Regulatory compliance often requires financial institutions to maintain immutable audit logs for several years to ensure transparency and accountability in all digital transactions.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the singular to refer to the entire collection of records or in the plural ('audit logs') to refer to multiple files.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.