How can you monitor log files on a specified directory using Splunk?

Monitoring log files in a specified directory using Splunk is effectively achieved through setting up a data input configuration. This process involves configuring Splunk to actively watch a directory for new log entries, allowing for real-time data ingestion as the logs are generated.

When you set up a data input configuration, you define parameters such as the directory path where the log files are located, the type of log files to monitor, and any specific rules for data parsing and indexing. This configuration tells Splunk when to look for new data and how to process it efficiently, ensuring that it captures logs consistently without user intervention.

In contrast, simply using a search command does not allow for monitoring; it is only effective for querying existing data that has already been indexed. The monitoring console serves more for overview and management rather than direct monitoring of logs in a specific directory. Manual inspection of the files does not leverage Splunk's capabilities for automated data capture and analysis. Therefore, setting up a data input configuration provides the robust functionality needed to monitor log files effectively in a specified directory.