What is the primary purpose of log analysis in security?

The primary purpose of log analysis in security is to effectively monitor and investigate activities within a network or system, especially when it comes to identifying security incidents. The process involves reviewing logs generated by various devices and applications to trace the sequence of events, detect anomalies, and understand the timeline of incidents.

For instance, accurate analysis of logs helps security teams recognize patterns of unauthorized access or unusual actions taken by users and systems. By correlating timestamps within logs, analysts can understand the chronology of events, identify the exact time of a security breach, and attribute specific activities to certain users or systems. This helps in assessing the impact of an incident and in developing appropriate responses.

While considering the other options, they do not represent the primary focus of log analysis. Monitoring user activity is a component of log analysis, but it does not encompass the broader goal of identifying and understanding security incidents comprehensively. Similarly, managing network bandwidth and analyzing data packets pertain to network management and traffic analysis rather than specifically to security-focused log analysis. Understanding the sequence and timing of events is crucial for effective incident response and remediation, underscoring why the correct answer aligns with security objectives.